Fearless Aging

Staying Fit and Beautiful in Your 50s and Beyond

By Teri Brown

Moran doesn't promote the kind of youth that makes people dissatisfied with who they are, but rather the kind of youthful openness that leads to a happy acceptance of new experiences and ideas.

Moran spent most of her life in Kansas City, Mo., then moved to New York City several years ago when she got married. Though she will always consider herself a Kansas City native, something in her has responded joyously to New York City. She approached her move as a great adventure to be cherished.

"When I open my shades in the morning and see the Chrysler Building, I still get a thrill," says Moran. "When I'm in Times Square and know I'm at the center of the Western world at this time in history, I feel so lucky. It doesn't have to take moving 1,200 miles, but it does mean going for your dream, no matter who disapproves."

Moran has come to a happy medium about aging that comes through in her book. Accept who you are, love where you are at and take care of yourself so that you can truly be your best self. And take what other people think about you with a grain of salt.

"That's what's great about middle age: You care less about getting approval," says Moran. "The funny thing is, you do what you want, it turns out to be right and people end up approving of you in spite of yourself."