Beauty through the Ages
BY NATALIE BARNETT
The recipe for ageless beauty does not pertain to expensive products or cosmetic procedures; rather it is a combination of attitude and confidence. The way in which we carry ourselves directly influences how we are perceived. We here at San Joaquin Woman believe in the real beauty - the charisma and self-possession - of women. After sorting through entries and photographs galore, we decided upon eight women who we found to exude the aforementioned traits. Not only are they aging incredibly well, but they demonstrate the perfect balance of self assurance and poise – the secret to being ageless.
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Esmeralda Williams
Age 37
At first glance, Esmeralda looks more like a high school student herself. In fact, she’s often been mistaken for a student at her 18-year old son’s parent/teacher conferences. But beyond the youthful looks is a woman who has dealt with life’s challenges with grace and is motivated to provide her family with the things that she lived without.
Personal Philosophy
Youth is determined by the heart and the mind. A number will never define my age.
Family Influence
My Mom raised me until she passed away when I was nine. She gave me the great family values that I have today. My father left shortly after my mom died. After that, my aunt raised me from nine to 12 yrs old. Then my sister raised me from 13 yrs old until I became an adult.
My aunt and sister both made huge sacrifices, which taught me that family comes first.
My son’s grandmother taught me how to cook and care for my son. She also encouraged me to pursue my career in nursing.
My mother-in law taught me to never give up, and to follow my dreams. She had a lot of faith in me.
Accomplishment with Aplomb
I graduated from nursing school at the top of my class when I was a single mom. This made me realize that I could achieve my dreams under any circumstances.
At first glance, Esmeralda looks more like a high school student herself. In fact, she’s often been mistaken for a student at her 18-year old son’s parent/teacher conferences. But beyond the youthful looks is a woman who has dealt with life’s challenges with grace and is motivated to provide her family with the things that she lived without.
Personal Philosophy
Youth is determined by the heart and the mind. A number will never define my age.
Family Influence
My Mom raised me until she passed away when I was nine. She gave me the great family values that I have today. My father left shortly after my mom died. After that, my aunt raised me from nine to 12 yrs old. Then my sister raised me from 13 yrs old until I became an adult.
My aunt and sister both made huge sacrifices, which taught me that family comes first.
My son’s grandmother taught me how to cook and care for my son. She also encouraged me to pursue my career in nursing.
My mother-in law taught me to never give up, and to follow my dreams. She had a lot of faith in me.
Accomplishment with Aplomb
I graduated from nursing school at the top of my class when I was a single mom. This made me realize that I could achieve my dreams under any circumstances.
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Patricia Clark
Age 45
Patricia, a mother of two, attributes her youthful looks to good genes. She has been fortunate to come from “a long line of women who age really well” and references “giggling a lot” to help keep her young.
Finding My Center
I handle stress by taking deep breaths, going for a walk or by playing with my dog.
Starry Night
I find pure joy in summer nights, stars and a full moon.
Life Influences
My mother. She always worked hard and made sure all of her kids never went without.
On Relationships
I’m not married; however I am in a long-term relationship. I think our relationship has lasted so long because I put everything out on the table, good and bad. Relationships require patience and compromises if you truly want them to be successful.
On Reliance
Self Confidence is one of the hardest things to build. If you don’t have it, a lot of things will simply pass you by.
Patricia, a mother of two, attributes her youthful looks to good genes. She has been fortunate to come from “a long line of women who age really well” and references “giggling a lot” to help keep her young.
Finding My Center
I handle stress by taking deep breaths, going for a walk or by playing with my dog.
Starry Night
I find pure joy in summer nights, stars and a full moon.
Life Influences
My mother. She always worked hard and made sure all of her kids never went without.
On Relationships
I’m not married; however I am in a long-term relationship. I think our relationship has lasted so long because I put everything out on the table, good and bad. Relationships require patience and compromises if you truly want them to be successful.
On Reliance
Self Confidence is one of the hardest things to build. If you don’t have it, a lot of things will simply pass you by.
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Jan Klevan Ruby
Age 57
Following a successful career as a newscaster for KOVR-TV, Jan Klevan Ruby became the first employee of the San Joaquin Partnership, where she currently serves as the Manager of Communications.
My Mantra
I have ended all my annual Christmas Letters with, " Life is short - get that tattoo!" By this I mean, “Live life to the fullest!”
Stress Relief
I enjoy kickboxing, dancing, practicing yoga and a good glass of red wine!
On Balance
This is my second marriage and not only do I love Randy - I am in love with him! We have been married for almost seven years. We are able to be a couple and share our lives, yet we remain true to ourselves. I am willing to watch hours of Formula One racing and he watches "Dancing with the Stars!" We enjoy many of the same activities, yet take time for our own personal favorites. Relationships cannot control your life...they should enhance it. Remember to consider the other person’s feelings, but keep your perspective.
An “Aha” Moment
In 1997, I made the decision to divorce. I contacted an attorney, started the proceedings and left for Europe with my son and daughter. The three of us caught up with family two weeks later for a short time, but we were essentially on our own! I purchased a small simple cross and chain in Florence, Italy and have not taken it off - it is a symbol of my independence and the courage to walk away from an abusive marriage.
Following a successful career as a newscaster for KOVR-TV, Jan Klevan Ruby became the first employee of the San Joaquin Partnership, where she currently serves as the Manager of Communications.
My Mantra
I have ended all my annual Christmas Letters with, " Life is short - get that tattoo!" By this I mean, “Live life to the fullest!”
Stress Relief
I enjoy kickboxing, dancing, practicing yoga and a good glass of red wine!
On Balance
This is my second marriage and not only do I love Randy - I am in love with him! We have been married for almost seven years. We are able to be a couple and share our lives, yet we remain true to ourselves. I am willing to watch hours of Formula One racing and he watches "Dancing with the Stars!" We enjoy many of the same activities, yet take time for our own personal favorites. Relationships cannot control your life...they should enhance it. Remember to consider the other person’s feelings, but keep your perspective.
An “Aha” Moment
In 1997, I made the decision to divorce. I contacted an attorney, started the proceedings and left for Europe with my son and daughter. The three of us caught up with family two weeks later for a short time, but we were essentially on our own! I purchased a small simple cross and chain in Florence, Italy and have not taken it off - it is a symbol of my independence and the courage to walk away from an abusive marriage.
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Sheryl Lowe
Age 60
Upon viewing Sheryl’s submittal photos, we knew she was a shoe-in! Her vivacious personality, not to mention her fit figure, left us eager to find out more.
On Happiness
Seeing pure joy on my son's face brings me pure joy and then, of course, there's dancing.
On Stimulus
The desire to stay healthy motivates me to eat well, exercise and take time for myself.
Anger motivates me to do housework. My husband hopes I get angry at least once a week.
From Patience, Grows Purpose
I've been married for fourteen years. Instead of running from life’s challenges we've endured them together. About three years ago we learned to ballroom dance at Arthur Murray Dance Studios. It has given us an opportunity to stay healthy and do something constructive together.
A Youthful Approach
To keep feeling young I, of course, dance. I also keep informed of current events and try to stay objective by studying as many views as possible. In doing this I am not living in the past but staying in the present. This keeps me grounded and feeling young.
Upon viewing Sheryl’s submittal photos, we knew she was a shoe-in! Her vivacious personality, not to mention her fit figure, left us eager to find out more.
On Happiness
Seeing pure joy on my son's face brings me pure joy and then, of course, there's dancing.
On Stimulus
The desire to stay healthy motivates me to eat well, exercise and take time for myself.
Anger motivates me to do housework. My husband hopes I get angry at least once a week.
From Patience, Grows Purpose
I've been married for fourteen years. Instead of running from life’s challenges we've endured them together. About three years ago we learned to ballroom dance at Arthur Murray Dance Studios. It has given us an opportunity to stay healthy and do something constructive together.
A Youthful Approach
To keep feeling young I, of course, dance. I also keep informed of current events and try to stay objective by studying as many views as possible. In doing this I am not living in the past but staying in the present. This keeps me grounded and feeling young.
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Mateenah Floyd-Okanlawon
Age 69
Once hindered by a serious back injury, Mateenah sought refuge through Buddhist practice and regular exercise. She now functions as an active member of her family and the community.
On Impartiality
I believe that mankind is basically good, and that all people are equal.
Personal Inspiration
My mother, who was born before her time. She wanted to be a writer or a pilot. Despite being a black woman raising six children mostly alone, she became an accomplished speaker and was able to take flying lessons. She was beautiful too.
Sweet Persuasion
Years ago, I met Vivian Baxter. During our conversation, I mentioned that I wanted to travel to Africa to see it for myself. She said, "My daughter has been to Africa." Do you know my daughter?"
I said no and just to be polite, I asked, "What is her name?" "Maya Angelou," she responded. I was so surprised that I almost didn't hear her ask, “When are you going to Africa?" I told her "I don't know."
"In order for you to go, you must set a date." She replied. That was just the nudge I needed and I traveled to Africa within the year.
Calm and Collected
I am a practicing Buddhist and I chant. Another alternative for me is to stop everything I'm doing and play with a grand child or two. I have five.
Once hindered by a serious back injury, Mateenah sought refuge through Buddhist practice and regular exercise. She now functions as an active member of her family and the community.
On Impartiality
I believe that mankind is basically good, and that all people are equal.
Personal Inspiration
My mother, who was born before her time. She wanted to be a writer or a pilot. Despite being a black woman raising six children mostly alone, she became an accomplished speaker and was able to take flying lessons. She was beautiful too.
Sweet Persuasion
Years ago, I met Vivian Baxter. During our conversation, I mentioned that I wanted to travel to Africa to see it for myself. She said, "My daughter has been to Africa." Do you know my daughter?"
I said no and just to be polite, I asked, "What is her name?" "Maya Angelou," she responded. I was so surprised that I almost didn't hear her ask, “When are you going to Africa?" I told her "I don't know."
"In order for you to go, you must set a date." She replied. That was just the nudge I needed and I traveled to Africa within the year.
Calm and Collected
I am a practicing Buddhist and I chant. Another alternative for me is to stop everything I'm doing and play with a grand child or two. I have five.
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Ann Stallworth
Age 76
Ann is the epitome of stylish sophistication. Although elegance is apparent, she is humbly grounded by her beliefs, determination and faith in God.
Joie de Vivre
Love and loving unconditionally. The love of family and friends includes their accomplishments, successes and achievements. This brings them joy many times over, and in turn gives me joy.??Teaching Tenacity
My greatest achievement in life was not just having children but raising them to achieve more than the previous generation, and to train their children to achieve even more. My children have achieved much more than I have. Four of the six children have earned college degrees. I raised my children to believe that they could be anything or anyone they want to be and then I made sure that there was nothing to stand in their way of achieving those goals. I told them the same thing that was told to me by my 1st grade teacher and my grandparents, "There is nothing impossible to accomplish, if you are willing to work hard for it."
On Vitality
Longevity is a gift from God. My mother is still living at the age of 94. I have an uncle that will be 104 on July 5th. I am a youngster compared to them. It is attributed to Exodus 20:12 "Honor your father and your mother: that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God gives you."
Ann is the epitome of stylish sophistication. Although elegance is apparent, she is humbly grounded by her beliefs, determination and faith in God.
Joie de Vivre
Love and loving unconditionally. The love of family and friends includes their accomplishments, successes and achievements. This brings them joy many times over, and in turn gives me joy.??Teaching Tenacity
My greatest achievement in life was not just having children but raising them to achieve more than the previous generation, and to train their children to achieve even more. My children have achieved much more than I have. Four of the six children have earned college degrees. I raised my children to believe that they could be anything or anyone they want to be and then I made sure that there was nothing to stand in their way of achieving those goals. I told them the same thing that was told to me by my 1st grade teacher and my grandparents, "There is nothing impossible to accomplish, if you are willing to work hard for it."
On Vitality
Longevity is a gift from God. My mother is still living at the age of 94. I have an uncle that will be 104 on July 5th. I am a youngster compared to them. It is attributed to Exodus 20:12 "Honor your father and your mother: that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God gives you."
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Jerrilene Robinson
Age 81
“Even better than her gorgeous looks is her beautiful heart. She’s up with the times with her Bluetooth on. She bowls three times a week. Frankly, senior is not a word that describes her – beautiful is!”
- Rose Harris, daughter-in-law
The Power of Love
The knowledge that my children love me unconditionally brings me pure joy.
On Endurance
I have had two children pass before me. I survived by praying through these situations. I also cherished having my other children around me. With the grace of God I have been so blessed to be here. Life motivates me; just knowing that I am amongst the living.
Describe a defining moment in your life.
After the death of my son's father, I was propelled to make a living as a single parent and had to move to the next level as an independent woman. I went to culinary school and then found a job in a restaurant. I went to work as the first black waitress at Lyons; then the first black woman to become a clerk at the Health Clinic on Hazelton. All these experiences have defined me to become who I am today. It has given me an appreciation to enjoy life, retirement, and living.
Persistence and Purpose
I am blessed to have good genes. I have family members that have lived to 100 years old. My maternal grandfather, my paternal aunt, my maternal aunt, they all lived to be over 100 years old.
“Even better than her gorgeous looks is her beautiful heart. She’s up with the times with her Bluetooth on. She bowls three times a week. Frankly, senior is not a word that describes her – beautiful is!”
- Rose Harris, daughter-in-law
The Power of Love
The knowledge that my children love me unconditionally brings me pure joy.
On Endurance
I have had two children pass before me. I survived by praying through these situations. I also cherished having my other children around me. With the grace of God I have been so blessed to be here. Life motivates me; just knowing that I am amongst the living.
Describe a defining moment in your life.
After the death of my son's father, I was propelled to make a living as a single parent and had to move to the next level as an independent woman. I went to culinary school and then found a job in a restaurant. I went to work as the first black waitress at Lyons; then the first black woman to become a clerk at the Health Clinic on Hazelton. All these experiences have defined me to become who I am today. It has given me an appreciation to enjoy life, retirement, and living.
Persistence and Purpose
I am blessed to have good genes. I have family members that have lived to 100 years old. My maternal grandfather, my paternal aunt, my maternal aunt, they all lived to be over 100 years old.
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Pola Mendoza
Age 96
A staunch democrat, Pola Mendoza is the matriarch of five generations. According to her son, Rod, she can recite the names of every First Lady since Eleanor Roosevelt, as well as describe their Inaugural Ball gowns.
Bliss
Winning a casino jackpot, having a Four-Aces poker hand, watching baseball and a Democratic President.
Personal Principles
The 4 F's: Family, Food, Fun and Faith.
Stress Management
I take an afternoon nap and pray.
Maternal Inspiration
My Mother because she was fair, strong and loving. I loved how she treated us and my children.
On Devotion
I am a widow. I married my husband on his family's farm in Southern California on August 21st, 1932. We spent 69 happy years together until Frank passed away in September of 2001. I feel that our marriage lasted because we loved and respected each other.
I Have Prevailed
I lost a daughter in infancy, an adult Son and my husband. I relied on my family and my faith to overcome the losses.
Individual Interests
I enjoy biographies and my favorite music is 1920's Charleston, 1940's Swing, Mariachi ballads and some early Rock and Roll. I loved to dance and I was good! I won several dance contests in my teens.
A staunch democrat, Pola Mendoza is the matriarch of five generations. According to her son, Rod, she can recite the names of every First Lady since Eleanor Roosevelt, as well as describe their Inaugural Ball gowns.
Bliss
Winning a casino jackpot, having a Four-Aces poker hand, watching baseball and a Democratic President.
Personal Principles
The 4 F's: Family, Food, Fun and Faith.
Stress Management
I take an afternoon nap and pray.
Maternal Inspiration
My Mother because she was fair, strong and loving. I loved how she treated us and my children.
On Devotion
I am a widow. I married my husband on his family's farm in Southern California on August 21st, 1932. We spent 69 happy years together until Frank passed away in September of 2001. I feel that our marriage lasted because we loved and respected each other.
I Have Prevailed
I lost a daughter in infancy, an adult Son and my husband. I relied on my family and my faith to overcome the losses.
Individual Interests
I enjoy biographies and my favorite music is 1920's Charleston, 1940's Swing, Mariachi ballads and some early Rock and Roll. I loved to dance and I was good! I won several dance contests in my teens.