The 40 Over 40 Project

Laura Huber,

Age 61

ell me about yourself and how you feel about being a woman over the age of 40. *

I’ve been over 40 for a long time and am enjoying life! The first half of my 40s were bumpy. We moved from Dallas to Nebraska the year before I turned 40. I had been married for four years, became an empty nester and a first-time grandmother when I was 39. The first part of my 40s were very eventful:I was in culture shock from moving to the Midwest, 911 happened, I was in a serious car accident (and sustained a head injury), our first grandson was stillborn and we won custody of my then teenaged step-son. I was in the midst of an identity crisis—but God was faithful and met me where I was. Good-bye identity crisis! I met the people who were to become my cherished mentors, pastors and friends for life. I learned how to let go of the past and stepped into the purposeful life God had planned for me and I have never looked back.

When do you feel most confident? *

I feel the most confident when I am learning about God and sharing the great things he has done for me with others (and when I have a nice outfit on, and my hair and make up on).

How did your painful times give you the gift of resilience? *

Absolutely! I have been through a lot of difficult and painful times. I’m grateful for them! I no longer make decisions out of fear. I’ve learned that even when I am in despair or sadness that the situation is usually temporary. I’ve learned that sharing my failures, difficulties and successes with others helps them and me. I’ve learned to be a good listener. I’ve learned how to wait patiently. Above all, I have gained wisdom.

What advice would you give your younger self? *

I would tell my younger self to quit sweating the small stuff. I would tell her to stop basing her worth on what others think. I would tell her to agree with what God says about her. I would tell her that she is beautiful inside and out! “ “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” ‭‭Psalms‬ ‭139:13-14‬ ”For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” ‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29:11‬ ‭

What would you tell other mature women about stepping out of their comfort zone and doing a photo shoot? *

I would tell them to do it! It was a great experience for me and it really gave my self-esteem a boost! I felt pretty and confident and Kelsey’s amazing photographs reflect it!