What is more wonderful than dancing? Dancing is great for the body, heart, and emotions. It is a way to celebrate life at any age.

Now that I am 70, dancing is a greater part of my life than ever before. I learned to dance the polka at a young age and participated in ballroom dancing in high school and college. I met the love of my life in college, and we loved to swing to Big Band music, especially "In the Mood." Later, we took up "tap-ercize," joined the "Silver Top Tapper" group, and won a national tap championship. We did a simple soft shoe routine. Over l000 people stood and applauded, including the judges. It wasn't that we were so good, it was that they were so delighted to see two "oldies" dancing. It kept us active and healthy.

After 42 years, I lost my dear husband. I was devastated. Two years ago, I collapsed on the sidewalk and was given CPR. I needed a pacemaker. So like the Energizer Bunny, I am running on batteries now. I have more energy and my life has been filled with more dancing and joy than before.

A wonderful group invited me to join them singing and dancing at Senior Centers. I got my tap shoes out again. Part of the deal was to enter the Ms. Senior Georgia Pageant. After they promised there was no bathing suit competition, I entered. I did a comical jazz dance. My goal was to make people laugh, and they did. To my surprise, I won and went to the national competition. I was fortunate to win there too.

As Ms. American Classic Woman, I speak to senior groups. My theme is to celebrate age at any age, using A G E. The A promotes staying ACTIVE, mentally and physically. The G encourages GRATITUDE for every minute of every day, for friends, family, and freedom. The E stands for ENTHUSIASM about every challenge in life.

I am grateful to be dancing, alive and well and active and helping others enjoy life and celebrate age.