February is almost over, and with it the Hallmark Channel’s “Loveuary”—a month dedicated to celebrating love. Inspired by this theme, I want to extend my own Loveuary message to every woman who is part of our Living Your Best Life Sixty Plus community. Whether you are a contributor or a reader, you bring wisdom, joy, and encouragement to all of us.
As we navigate the sometimes predictable—and sometimes daunting—realities of senior living, I am continually uplifted by the stories shared here. Your honesty, humor, and faith have brightened my spirit and strengthened my resolve. This past year, your posts have been especially meaningful for this season of life. I often pass them along intentionally to friends who need just the right word at just the right time.
Recently, I celebrated a milestone birthday: 65. Entering the world of Social Security and Medicare has been a new adventure. While I wish I could offer a tutorial, I instead encourage you to seek out local experts, as my husband did for us, who can guide you through these transitions. It is an interesting and sometimes overwhelming phase. I’m reminded of the women I admired in my twenties—those who lived with grace and purpose. Now, I hope to be that woman for others.
For those who know my story, you may remember that I became a mother at 44, after being told it would never happen. That journey was a rollercoaster filled with heartbreak, hope, and ultimately joy. Today, my son is a 20-year-old college student, and motherhood continues to evolve. I laugh at myself for missing the days when my life wasn’t entirely my own. Yet, thanks to recent Best-Life posts, I’m rediscovering myself and embracing this new chapter.
My heart was especially tender this morning during my quiet time with the Lord. I am always amazed at how He confirms what He is impressing upon my heart—often through the simplest reminders. As I read and reflected, I came across a scripture I had highlighted some time ago, complete with notes in the margin meant for “later.” As I reread it today, it felt as though the Lord was softly saying: “This is for now.”
That moment took me back to 2023, when I had the privilege of serving as Ms. Senior America and attending the Ms. Senior Michigan Pageant. One of the quiet blessings of that experience was Sandy, the florist—a devoted volunteer who gives her time, talent, and treasure to make the event beautiful. Sandy is also a woman of deep faith. When she presented me with a gorgeous bouquet, we quickly discovered our shared love for the Lord and formed an immediate, kindred connection.
Sandy shared a practice that deeply moved me. Each morning during her devotional time, she asks the Lord to show her one person who would benefit from the scripture she has studied. She writes the verse in a note and waits—trusting God to reveal who should receive it. That day, I was the blessed recipient. At the time, neither of us knew I would soon be entering the tender and sometimes unsettling season of an empty nest.
This morning, as I reread that same passage, it spoke to me once again—perhaps even more powerfully than before. I pray it will encourage you as well, especially verse 14. Psalm 92:12–15 says:
“The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, They will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; Planted in the house of the Lord, They will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age. They will stay fresh and green, Proclaiming, ‘The Lord is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in Him.’”
What a promise. What a reassurance. The bottom line is this: God isn’t finished with me—or you—yet.
I am especially grateful to Monette Sedberry for reminding me to rekindle romance with my husband, and to Candy Arrington for teaching me to savor every day with those we love. Marita Littauer Tedder’s recent post on “Happiness” inspired me to create a playlist—“Whistle While You Work” sits at the top, because I’m always on the move. And Christy Largent’s “26 in 26 Challenge” encouraged me to try new things this year. I don’t believe in retirement—only re-firement.
This year, I have pursued opportunities as a music professional, interviewed for a part-time adjunct vocal professor role, and even co-hosted a Christian conservative TV/radio show called Kentucky’s Voice. I am passionate about mentoring young women and am determined to finish my first devotional book, Thirty Days to the Crown. I don’t know where all of this will lead, but I am deeply grateful for the encouragement of this community.
So whether you are a contributor or a reader, please accept this as my Loveuary Valentine to you. You have blessed me, and I hope this message blesses you in return.
A friend loves at all times. (Proverbs 17:17)
Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. (Proverbs 31:30)
New to The Best-Life Project?
Please read these foundational posts:
Read More from This Author:
Debbie was honored to serve as Ms. Senior America 2023. She holds a degree in Vocal Performance and has performed across the continental U.S. and abroad. She’s also a talent and interview coach for Miss America Scholarship Organization contestants, high school and college bound performing arts students, and conservative political candidates. Debbie is married to Scott Robbins. They have one son, Jackson, born when Debbie was 44. He is now a Freshman at the University of Louisville.