Hobbies are important in every stage of life!
At Studio 5, we love celebrating the wisdom and warmth that come with life’s later chapters.
Fay Klingler—author, quilter, and proud grandmother—explored how hobbies can be a powerful source of joy, purpose, and wellness during “Nanahood.”
“A Hobby Is a Healthy Pastime”
Fay began by sharing a simple but powerful truth: “A hobby is a healthy pastime. It’s something you do regularly for enjoyment rather than work.” While hobbies are valuable at any age, Fay emphasized that they become especially meaningful in retirement or grandparenthood. They help maintain both physical and mental well-being, offering a sense of identity and fulfillment beyond the roles we’ve played in earlier stages of life.
Creativity as a Lifeline
Fay spoke about her son-in-law, who turned to doodling during a difficult time. What started as a stress-reliever became a beautiful form of self-expression. “They were truly beautiful drawings,” she said, highlighting how creativity can help us process emotions and find peace—something especially important in the quieter, reflective seasons of life.
Staying Sharp and Inspired
Fay’s grandparents, well into their 80s, created stunning mosaics from broken colored glass arranged over coloring book designs. These pieces, now framed and treasured by family, are a testament to how hobbies can keep the brain active and the spirit alive. “A learning hobby might do the same thing,” Fay added, suggesting pursuits like studying nutrition, learning a new language, or exploring world cultures.
Connection Through Shared Passions
In Nanahood, hobbies also become a bridge to others. Fay highlighted the social side of hobbies—group singing, hiking with friends, gardening and sharing produce with neighbors. She fondly recalled her grandmother giving a piano recital at BYU at the age of 85, proving that passion and performance don’t have an expiration date.
A Legacy of Love and Creativity
Fay’s own creative journey includes quilting, where she combined meaningful sayings with colorful embroidery for her family. Her mother, who knitted and crocheted well into her 90s, found joy in making gifts for loved ones. “Everyone enjoyed her potholders and sweaters,” Fay smiled. Now, Fay finds fulfillment in writing children’s books—an outlet that brings her purpose, learning, and connection.
Why Hobbies Matter in Later Life
Fay’s reflections remind us that hobbies are more than just ways to pass the time. Especially in Nanahood, they offer:
- Stress relief and mood boosts
- Improved memory and problem-solving
- A sense of accomplishment and self-worth
- Creative expression and lifelong learning
- Physical activity and energy
- Social connection and reduced isolation
A Gentle Reminder
Fay closed with a note of encouragement: “Be patient with yourself. Don’t demand things that are unreasonable.” Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush, planting a garden, or writing your first story, the joy is in the journey.
Find more of Fay’s work at klinglerauthor.com.
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