Meet Sandy, a Passionate Cook, Photographer and Fun-Loving Woman
“Confidence is putting a swimsuit on and embracing yourself.”
My relationship with my body has changed over the years. When I was younger, it was effortless to stay thin and fit but menopause and time have brought changes. My knees do not always cooperate and waistlines expand yet I remain grateful for the strength and resilience my body offers. Dating in my 50s helped me see that you do not have to be perfect to feel sexy. Being part of this OceanRoad Swimwear photoshoot was more comfortable than I expected. It was just fun and liberating. The zip-up rashies made me feel confident and I hope my photos show women of all shapes and sizes that practical swimwear can look beautiful. This experience reminded me that I can do almost anything if I put my heart into it.
“I trained as a clown and did it for 10 years.”
People are often surprised to learn I trained as a clown and performed for a decade. I have always loved bringing joy to others and in some ways that spirit still carries through in how I connect with people today. My perfect day starts with a coffee and some journaling outside somewhere relaxing followed by a swim and a beach walk. I would then enjoy a leisurely breakfast with some reading and music in the background. Simple things like this help me recharge and find balance.
“Kings Beach is my sanctuary and creative spark.”
I feel alive through writing. Journaling, poetry and letters allow me to express myself. Photography lets me capture the world as I see it. Nature also inspires me and Kings Beach, just walking distance from my front door, is my place of freedom. I love connecting with friends and community through cooking, listening and sharing experiences together. Surrounding myself with positive energy and creativity is essential to who I am.
“My mum taught me dignity and resilience in every challenge.”
I find inspiration in strong and compassionate women. My mum was an incredible influence. She had a big heart and amazing mind and faced so much yet always carried herself with dignity. Life has thrown plenty of challenges my way as well from living most of my life without parents to going through two marriages and losing a partner to terminal illness. What I have learned is that life goes on regardless and how you handle it is what really matters. If I could give my younger self advice, I would simply say you are so beautiful.
“Accepting where you are in life is true confidence and freedom with celebration.”
For me, beauty and confidence come from self-acceptance, acknowledging life as it is with joy. Over time I have embraced my body and its changes over time. When I was younger, it was effortless to stay thin and fit but menopause and time have brought changes but I remain grateful for the strength and resilience my body offers. Nature also inspires me and Kings Beach, just walking distance from my front door, is my place of freedom.
“Little celebrations make life feel full and joyful.”
I have also learned to celebrate achievements in meaningful ways. Usually this means sharing a meal at home with friends, opening a bottle of Prosecco, enjoying good food and playing some great music. It is these little celebrations that make life feel full and joyful.