2025 40 Over 40 Series: Carol Lott
“To my surprise and shock, I was diagnosed with a meningioma (a brain tumor). The location in my brain was the area that controls the speech and coordination. In March, I underwent a craniotomy to remove it. To describe my recovery process could be said nothing short of miraculous. I was admitted on a Tuesday and discharged the following Saturday. All the Glory belongs to God. I know He spared me to show His Divine Favor and meritless Grace & Mercy. It is my belief system that saved my life.“
Carol’s story:
My Name is Carol Ann Lott, Wife, Mother & Retired member of the United States Army. To begin with, Ive been married for 39 years, and have raised 5 children. I spent 27 years of my life in service to my country. I turn 60 Oct of this year. I have faced many challenges over the last 59 years. I credit my Faith as my core foundation. This foundation was established by my parents, whose Faith in God the Father was passed down to me and I will be eternally grateful to them.
What are some of the rewarding parts of the current decade you are in? The challenges?
Just having God’s Grace, Mercy and Divine wisdom in how I live my life. Having the opportunity to live as long as I have and being in good health. In Jan ’25, I went to the doctor for a lingering head fog from what I thought was the remnants of the flu. To my surprise and shock, I was diagnosed with a meningioma (a brain tumor). The location in my brain was the area that controls the speech and coordination. In March, I underwent a craniotomy to remove it. To describe my recovery process could be said nothing short of miraculous. I was admitted on a Tuesday and discharged the following Saturday. All the Glory belongs to God. I know He spared me to show His Divine Favor and meritless Grace & Mercy. It is my belief system that saved my life.
What has been your favorite decade you have lived through and why?
I honestly do not have a favorite or least favorite. I take life as it comes, embracing every moment in gratitude.
If given the opportunity, what would you do differently?
I try not to deal in hypotheticals. You know; would of, should of, could of. After all, what does that get you? You cannot change your past. At best, you learn from it and move on in the most positive way you can. You have to learn to forgive yourself for your mistakes or else you will tend to carry a lot of unnecessary baggage.
What was your top life lesson that you’ve never forgotten and have lived by?
Keeping a teachable spirit. Realizing every person, every experience, every challenge is something to be learned from. Embracing the positive and releasing the negative.
What has bought you the most joy in your life?
I’d have to say the birth of my children. (Not the actual labor and delivery! Lol! Although it is described as a “labor of love”) I do love the Honor of motherhood.
What was your experience like working with Brandi Stage Portraiture as a part of the 40 Over 40 Project?
Celebrating ME! Embracing all that I am and all I still hope to be. My story is not ending, it is just beginning and before I go I intend to live life to the fullest. I believe Brandi has captured the images I wish to share for this stage in my life and I look forward to many collaborations in the future!
You are more beautiful than you know!
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Much love,
Brandi
International Award-Winning Portrait Photographer
Brandi Stage is a portrait photographer recognized by the prestigious International Photography Awards and based in Diamondhead, MS. She creates an exceptional magazine-style photo shoot and timeless heirloom portraits for women, men, children and pets in her studio or on location.