About
From Educator and Caregiver to Midlife Mentor and Blogger
With Sassy Sister Stuff, I’ve combined decades of professional experience in education, personal growth, and caregiving with real-life wisdom to empower women in midlife and beyond. My goal? To help you embrace the aging process with confidence, balance, and joy—maybe even a little sass!
As a former distinguished educator, a lifelong learner, and a devoted caregiver, I’ve spent years studying human development, well-being, and resilience. I understand firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with navigating midlife, from personal reinvention to caregiving for loved ones. Now, I bring that expertise to you—helping women like us thrive in this exciting second act of life.
“Life is about balance. Be kind, but don’t let people abuse you. Trust, but don’t be deceived. Be content, but never stop improving yourself.” ~ Zig Ziglar
Here, you’ll find encouragement, practical advice, and inspiration to make the most of your midlife journey. Let’s celebrate the wit, wisdom, and wonder that comes with experience—because this stage of life is meant to be lived vibrantly!
Learning to Balance Life and Navigate Personal Growth
Balancing life as a young mother and professional wasn’t easy, and for years, I didn’t realize the importance of self-care, mindset, and well-being. But everything changed when I returned to teaching and discovered the power of growth mindset and human development research.
Over my 30 years as an educator and school administrator, I helped thousands of students and adults build confidence, develop resilience, and embrace personal growth strategies. My expertise in mindset practices, positive psychology, and human development led to recognitions such as Teacher of the Year, Special Educator of the Year, the Maryland State Christa McAuliffe Fellowship, and invitations to speak at national conferences. I co-wrote educational books, developed curriculum, and contributed to research in the field of human potential and lifelong learning.
These experiences didn’t just shape my career—they became the foundation for what I do now— helping midlife women navigate personal growth, well-being, and caregiving with confidence and resilience.
Prioritizing Well-Being in Midlife
Like many women, I’ve faced health and confidence challenges that tested my resilience. Over the years, I’ve learned firsthand how mindset, self-care, and intentional living can transform well-being. Through mental health therapy, personal growth practices, and daily affirmations, I’ve built a lifestyle centered on confidence, self-compassion, and empowerment—and now, I help other women do the same.
Life took an unexpected turn in my 50s when I faced a traumatic injury that forced me into early retirement. The healing process was long and difficult, but it deepened my understanding of resilience, self-care, and the importance of mental well-being.
Through years of therapies, personal growth practices, and an unwavering commitment to self-improvement, I’ve learned that healing isn’t about “going back” to who we were—it’s about embracing who we are becoming.
I don’t chase perfection, but I do believe in progress, joy, and embracing life fully—and that’s the message I share here at Sassy Sister Stuff.
I still believe in the power of self-reflection, humor, and growth, and after 44 years of marriage, my husband reminds me daily that life is better when we don’t take ourselves too seriously!
Adventure as a Form of Well-Being
Exploring new places has been one of the most transformative ways I’ve nurtured my well-being in midlife. Whether it’s a quiet escape to the ocean or a long trip out west, I’ve found that stepping outside of daily routines brings clarity, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Travel isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about embracing new experiences, reducing stress, and keeping a spirit of adventure alive as we age.
Caregiving in Midlife: A Personal Journey
Caregiving is one of the most challenging and emotional roles we take on in midlife. I know this firsthand—I was the primary caregiver for both of my parents in their final months. My mother passed in 2013, and just ten years later, I found myself caring for my father in his final stages of life.
During those years, I lived the caregiver experience—navigating medical systems, advocating for their needs, balancing family life, and facing the overwhelm, stress, and emotional toll that caregiving brings. It’s a journey that so many of us face, yet we’re often unprepared.
That’s why I’m passionate about sharing caregiving insights, resources, and support—so others don’t have to walk this path alone. If you’re in this season of life, I see you, and I’m here to help.
Finding Purpose in Midlife: My Blogging Journey
Retirement can be a major life shift—one that comes with new challenges, opportunities, and a need for purpose. After years of therapy following a traumatic work incident, I found myself wondering, What’s next?
Family is my foundation, and like many women in midlife, I find joy in spending time with loved ones while balancing my own personal growth and well-being. But like many women in midlife, I wanted something else—something that combined my passions for learning, writing, and connecting with others. That’s how this blog was born!
Women over 50 have unique lifestyles, evolving interests, and new challenges. We’re continuously navigating transitions, personal growth, and wellness in ways that look different from our younger years. Life isn’t always easy, but with knowledge, community, and a positive mindset, we can embrace midlife with confidence and sass!
So, on April 1, 2020, I launched this website. It has evolved over time, but its purpose remains the same—to empower, uplift, and support women just like you as we navigate this vibrant stage of life together
A Lifetime of Learning and Teaching
Education is part of my DNA. With advanced degrees in Human Resource Development and Educational Leadership, plus years of experience as a teacher, school administrator, and advocate, I’ve spent my life helping others grow.
My background in personal growth, mindset development, and advocacy naturally led me to create Sassy Sister Stuff—a space where midlife women can find inspiration, encouragement, and practical advice to embrace life with confidence.
Celebrating Sassy Sisterhood
Behind the name of this website are the amazing women who inspired me to create a space dedicated to empowering each other—my forever Sassy Sisters.
For over 25 years, we’ve supported each other through life’s challenges, from marriages and divorces to grandkids, career changes, and personal growth. We’ve laughed, cried, and cheered each other on, and through it all, we’ve been Sassy Sisters. These are my ride-or-die girls! I love you Chris, Marilyn, Lisa, Debbe, and Page! 💜💜💜💜💜💜
The bond we share reminds me of the importance of connection—especially for women in midlife. So, in honor of these girls, I invite you to join us as we live boldly and embrace this season of life with confidence and sass.
Let’s Get Started on this Aging Journey
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. As with all of us, we go through good times and bad times in life. But we can all CHOOSE JOY if we develop the skillset to maintain a positive mindset. And a positive mindset will be just the beginning of your confident, vibrant, and sassy story about your aging journey!
Let’s kickstart your journey with these three steps:
- Take a quick moment to LIKE my Facebook page and find me on Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok, too! Let’s connect, friends!
- Stay informed about all that’s happening here. SUBSCRIBE to Sassy Sister Stuff on the HOME Page so I can send you a monthly email that will support and inspire you!
- Peruse the site and pick an article. There’s tons of great content! Drop me an email at [email protected] to let me know what you think! Our 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s are going to be the best times of our lives!
I’m so glad you’re here!
Love to ALL! ~ Susan