"Once I discovered Boom! cosmetics I emptied YEARS of makeup debris into the trash - I literally do not remember the last time I used some of it, nor do I understand why I kept it! As in all things pro-age, I relish finding easier ways to do everything and Boom! just made sense to me, and, the Boom Trio gives me just enough fresh coverage. My time is precious now, having worked for 35 years outside my home. In the early 80’s I stopped working outside the house to create my own business. My son was young and I wanted to be at home with him. I will never regret making that decision, as we were very close and my stained glass business thrived with no time constraints on me. Moving forward in time, I was divorced at age 60 and have lived the past 10 years as a single, content woman. I was offered a job as an art instructor at a local academy six years ago and eagerly accepted the position as teaching was one aspect of art I had not explored. I now teach a raucous group of middle schoolers and teenagers who LOVE the arts and they have become my focus. Finding my brain totally engaged in an important activity at my age has surprised and delighted me…I don't know what I was expecting, but it was NOT to return to work at age 64! I am loving my new responsibilities, but also savoring my peace at home, the self-rule that comes with being single, and I always tell my students that as long as they have HOPE AND A HOBBY they will be happy. I truly believe that.

Like many my age, I love to travel and do so at every opportunity. I sing alto with the 100-member Virginia Choral Society and two years ago we did a concert tour of Ireland, one of the most gratifying things I've ever done in my life! I have always worked as a musician on the side, singing with bands for about 15 years in my 30’s and 40’s. I come from a large family of musicians who influenced me very early on. Connecting with the chorus has given me the perfect outlet for my music, friendship, study, and important interaction with the like-minded. The chorus is indeed my anchor in a world gone crazy! Again, HOPE and a HOBBY.

At 70 I am paring down even more…..I purge my house regularly of things I no longer need or use, clean out my closet regularly, have simplified my big yard down to perennials only, and devote a lot of time to my passion, painting. Spending time alone is now like a meditation instead of a punishment. Focusing on my brain health, I do Lumosity daily and have for years. Life is now lived on MY terms, I am in charge, and I am happy. The best is yet to come!"

—Phyllis Wells