Welcome to the Portrait Stories newsletter!

I’m Amanda Hsu, and I run a Portrait Studio – Cranberry Studio here in sunny Malta. I’m writing a portrait book filled with beautiful images and inspiring stories.

Sonia is a passionate runner. This year, she completed the 2024 La Valletta Full Marathon!! It was a crazy 42.2-kilometer full marathon! Not only that, she was awarded a medal because she the No. 1 runner in her category age 55-59. Her record showed that she is much faster than many people who are under 50. It proves that age means nothing at all! How marvellous! I’ve watched her all these years’ dedication and passion for running. Sonia’s hard work and determination truly paid off on race day, and her victory is well-deserved. Her success serves as an inspiration to all of us to pursue our goals with unwavering commitment.

Here is the interview with Sonia:

Q: How did you mark turning 50? And how did that feel?

A: I felt blessed in more ways than one! Becoming a grandma brought a whole new kind of exhaustion, reminding me of how demanding babies and young children can be. I also felt grateful to keep up with my therapy, my training, and my love for the outdoors.

Q: How has your relationship to time changed as you have gotten older? Has it sped up? Has it slowed down? When did it move the fastest for you?

A: For me, time has slowed down. This shift came partly from having so much to handle each day and partly from the gift of mindfulness my grandchild brought me. Each moment has become a memory, and I find myself observing, absorbing, and appreciating so much more now.

Q: Have your values changed over time? What do you value now?

A: I value everything—literally everything. It saddens me to see people rushing through their days. I often think their time would be the best gift they could give. At times, I feel like the loneliest person on earth; technology, with all its pros and cons, plays a huge part in this. You can’t capture a laugh in a WhatsApp message, let alone the deeper connections that truly matter.

Q: What is the one piece of advice you would give your 20-something self?

A: Believe in yourself. Know who you are. Although, I also recognize that self-knowledge often comes with maturity and experience. And remember to listen more.

Q: If you had a bucket list, what’s your favorite thing you’ve checked off?

A: Trekking for three weeks across different climates, experiencing new traditions, and adjusting to high altitudes—Machu Picchu was one heck of an experience! Plus, all the endless treks with my husband, who makes each adventure an unforgettable journey.

Q: What gets you up in the morning? What are your motivations?

A: Each sunrise is a new beginning, another chance, and a blessing. Making new memories keeps me motivated and reminds me that each day is a gift.

Q: When in your life, so far, have you felt most confident and why?

A: I felt the most confidence and joy the moment I became a mother. It was an indescribable, amazing feeling that nothing and no one can take away. I wouldn’t trade it for the world—I learned so much from that experience!

Q: It would be really interesting to hear about any ambitions you have for the future.

A: My ambition is to stay as fit and healthy as possible. I want to keep trekking, exploring the outdoors, and experiencing the beauty of different cultures and traditions. And, of course, I hope to be around as my grandchildren grow older. I’ll always treasure the bond and memories I had with my own grandparents.

Q: Have these ambitions changed since you turned 40?

A: My ambitions have stayed consistent for quite a few years.

Q: How do you think your generation is perceived by other generations?

A: To my mother, I’ll never know as much as she does, and she’ll never fully trust my choices! To my daughter, I’m constantly reminded that ‘things have changed since your time.’ And my grandchild? Sometimes, I get looks that make me feel absolutely ancient—it’s hilarious!

Q: Are there any myths you would like to bust about the over-40s? If so, can you tell us about them?

A: Rather than busting myths, I’d like to confirm this: never say never. And remember, you can eat an entire elephant—just one piece at a time.

Have you thought about doing a photo session just for yourself? An opportunity to celebrate yourself! Click the link below. (To receive Photo Shoot Information)