By Pam Lutrell –

Maybe you are seeking more joy in your life after 50? One of the sure-fire ways to find it is to do what you love, because it is never too late. This is what jewelry designer; Deborah Long-Shirley is doing at age 63. After retiring from thirty seven years as an English teacher, Long-Shirley decided to follow the creative gifting inside of her and began to make necklaces; and, since then, she has made hundreds where no two are exactly alike.

Currently, her life is a whirlwind of designing for merchandise in Texas boutiques, as well as special orders. Women will show her an outfit for a particular occasion in order to receive a unique look designed just for that style. In fact, the top local sales team for the “W” by Worth line, feature her designs each season, which have been fashioned just for the looks of the collection being debuted. She has also designed bridesmaids’ necklaces…each one unique to enhance the individual girl.

“It all started with a white coral necklace I made which received a lot of attention,” she said. But, what fuels her inspiration, are the stones. “They speak to me,” she said with a smile. “I never order online. I have to touch them, see them and begin to envision a piece in my mind.” Her designs feature pendants from around the world, Turkey, Greece…maybe a gold plated leaf from Colorado…shells and precious rocks….even turquoise skulls can be found.

She has discovered a life and a joy, she never thought possible at her age. “I am having the time of my life,” she said. “Don’t hesitate. Just pursue your dreams.”

During the 1980s, Pam Lutrell left a thriving public relations career to be a wife and mother. At the age of 47, she began to teach high school journalism and prepare for life at middle age. After a huge wake up call on her fiftieth birthday, Pam made some significant changes in her life and today has added several awards as a teacher, freelance writer, lifestyle blogger, and public speaker to her resume. She is having the time of her life with her developing fashion & style blog for middle aged women….women of strength, dignity, and joy! Find her also at http://over50feeling40.blogspot.com: over50Feeling40@gmail.com, Twitter: Over 50Feeling 40; Facebook: Over50feeling40; and bloggers for www.mysa.com, The San Antonio Express News.