Delette Gazaway: Legendary Ladies Spotlight
In 2022, I completed a portrait project called Legendary Ladies which was all about celebrating women over 40. As I’ve started a new project, This is Me, I’ve been thinking back on the sessions from my first portrait project in my studio in Cisco, TX.
Over the next several weeks, I’ll be featuring each participant of the Legendary Ladies project on my blog. Follow along as I share these amazing women’s stories.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Delette! In this business, I get to meet a lot of new people. Most of these clients leave an inspiring mark on my life in some way. Delette was no exception.
She’s been through some struggles, but she has such an uplifting look on life now. We laughed a ton during her session, and I loved getting to capture that energy in her portraits.
Get to Know Delette
Delette is a flight nurse on the only medical transport helicopter in Haiti.
She celebrated 30 years clean and sober from drugs and alcohol this May 13.
She is a runner and is celebrating her 30 years of sobriety this year with several special marathons.
Delette is a total jigsaw puzzle and book geek! She loves the mountains and cold weather.
“Probably the most important thing to know about me is that I have an incredible husband, Jim, that supports me in all my endeavors. Even the crazy ones. He may not understand why I want to run 13.1 or 26.2 miles, but he will cheer me on. God sent me a great one. (And he loves dogs as much as I do).
We have 5 children, 12 grandchildren, 4 dogs, and 8 cats. (The cats live outside).”
What is one of the most rewarding things about aging?
“Being here to see my children and grandchildren live life.”
What advice would you give your younger self?
“Take grades seriously! Love yourself and know that you are enough just like you are. Don't drink and do drugs. Save money and travel.”
How did your view on life change after turning 40?
“I don't remember 40 as a really perspective changing year. I was still so new at "adulting". I was in nursing school, getting married, buying a house, and raising kids. Turning 50 was a little more of a turning point. I became much more aware of the passage of time. My general view of life remained somewhat the same. As 60 came and went I have become very conscious of the importance of not "sweating the small stuff". The importance of tolerance for other people's beliefs has also become much more of a focus.”
Here’s what Delette had to say about her experience with us:
“Thank you to Clement Portraits Photography Studio - Cisco, Texas - for a wonderful (& fun!) photo shoot. I HIGHLY recommend Tyler Clement and encourage all area ladies to participate. Tyler and Roz made this the best experience!”
My new portrait project: This is Me, is accepting clients. This project is not age based, but is designed for women at all stages of their adult life to step into their highest self confidence. If you’re interested in learning more about the project, click here.
