Age: Laura Kemp on the Mumopause

Welcome back to Age month, where we explore how a woman’s age affects how she sees herself. We’ve heard from an artist, two women without children who’ve reflected on their identities as non-mothers, and Miriam O’Reilly, who won a case against the BBC for age discrimination. And today, we’re introducing you to journalist Laura Kemp, who’ll be talking about something a bit different.

We got in touch with Laura to ask if she’d share her thoughts on age and identity with us, and she made us a video. We strongly recommend you watch it – it’s guaranteed to cure those Monday blues.

Laura gives us the low down on the mumopause. Don’t know what that is? Well, you’ll just have to watch the video to find out (hint: it involves hi tops, a Princess Leia made of felt, and a puppy).

So what does Laura see in the mirror? Oh, not you again. That's what I think when I look in the mirror, seeing wrinkles, spots and completely not bang on trend eyebrows. Then I see my mother's nose and my father's eyes and I have a surge of love for my parents, thinking how great they are. After that I find the mum, wife, daughter, sister and friend I am, thanking my stars I'm me with all who I love. And sometimes there's a glint in my eye, which I recognise as a person who tries her hardest and loves to laugh. If I'm drunk, however, I think 'oh God not you again'. In fact, once I walked towards a really ratted woman and thought 'look at the state of her' and then I bashed into a mirror. Finally I see my son and I wonder how it was ever possible my nothing-special features could become beautiful on his face.

If you want to hear more from Laura (we certainly do), head over here and check out her second book, Mums on Strike, or follow her on Twitter: @laurajanekemp.