[Updated: March 6, 2019 | Published: March 6, 2019]

Laura Hill is a firm believer that one of the best ways to thrive in retirement is by pursuing a creative endeavor. In fact, if you were to enter the Friendship Village of Dublin woodshop, you would likely see her honing her unique creative skillset.

With a passion for making stained glass artwork, Hill has spent the last four years at Friendship Village of Dublin crafting art designed to bring joy to her and her fellow residents.

“I started making stained glass after I retired and knew it was important that I kept pursuing this hobby,” says Hill. “I love the creativity of it.”

Utilizing the woodshop offered by Friendship Village of Dublin along with her own glass-making tools, Hill creates anything from small, whimsical suncatchers to large, architectural stained glass panels. Not only has this allowed Hill to enhance her creative spirit, but she’s also displayed her work at the community’s annual craft bazaar. She’s even sold pieces to fellow residents who appreciate her work!

“I usually find a picture or a pattern on the internet or in a magazine and go from there,” says Hill. “I use all kinds of colors and shapes, so it can bring a smile to someone’s face.”

When looking for a retirement residence to call home, Hill was adamant in finding a community where she could continue producing stained glass pieces. Not only did Friendship Village of Dublin offer her a woodshop as a working space, but it also offered a community of residents who enjoy working alongside one another.

“The residents here are either intellectually or physically creative, which has been a very special part about being here,” says Hill. “There is always an interesting conversation going on.”

Whether it be through the activities hosted, dining resources available or Life Care services offered, Hill and her husband have truly enjoyed their four years of retirement at Friendship Village of Dublin.

“As soon as we toured the village and saw how lovely it would be to live here, we jumped right on it and moved in about three months later,” says Hill. “It was very important to both of us to have everything under one roof.”

All in all, Hill has made quite a hobby for herself throughout her time at Friendship Village of Dublin. Her determination to bring a smile to one’s face through her artwork is a characteristic displayed in every piece she creates.

“I would be hard pressed to enjoy anything as much as I enjoy this,” says Hill.  “Friendship Village of Dublin is definitely keeping me active as I continue to work with other residents, whether that be in the woodshop or creating a piece of art for them.”

Are you looking for a community that lets you thrive in retirement? Friendship Village of Dublin offers an all-inclusive retirement experience that brings together social connection, high-end amenities and holistic Life Care services – all for a steady rate, regardless if your needs or circumstances change as you age. If you’re interested in learning more about our community, schedule a tour.