Art of Aging: Pursue your dreams

SOUTH PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Jean Zinni opened her first dress shop in South Philadelphia 70 years ago and has sold formal gowns nearly all her life.

But it was only after she retired that she began pursuing her true passion.

Jean Zinni's three daughters literally grew up in their mother's shop. And now each has a store of her own.

"It's not easy. You get some kooky customers," said Jean. Then, suddenly realizing some customers were within earshot, she added, "Excuse me, people. I love you all."

But what Jean really loves is music. She began singing for friends and family a few decades ago.

"I really, really enjoy doing it," she said.

So after she retired, she started writing and recording CDs in her South Philadelphia home.

"I think she just wanted to pick up some little hobby," said daughter Maria Bennett. "And she liked to sing and she loved music. She loves to dance."

It's a passion, her daughters say, that makes their mother look, act and feel much younger than her 90 years.

"Her doing her music has really has brought her back to her youth," said daughter Carolyn Zinni.

"You need to have something to hold onto and just embrace, and I think that's what she's done," said Bennett.