Elaine, 67
Energetic, funny, wacky
“I love how life feels for me now and rejoice in all I do and feel.”
✨ Twinsight: Elaine's story is a testament to the power of intergenerational friendships. She recognizes the importance of having friends of all ages and believes they keep her energized and visible. Her unique perspective on friendship and age has caught our attention and we believe it's a message worth sharing. Her story is a reminder that life is richer when we surround ourselves with diverse friends who bring unique perspectives and experiences to the table. So let’s all channel our inner-Elaine’s and start cultivating those intergenerational friendships!
I have been on line dating for over 13 years and used to do a show at The Gladstone called Tinder Tales where once a month I hit the stage with wacky stories. I am also a stand up comic. I am always WAY older than anyone in any show I do. I also worked as a full time career waitress for decades. I love being my age and wearing long silver hair proudly.
How old are you and how are you feeling about that?
A: I am 67 (turning 68 in July) and am finally the age I should be. I love how life feels for me now and rejoice in all I do and feel.
Three words that describe you?
A: Energetic, funny and wacky.
What’s the one life lesson that you wish you had figured out earlier?
A: I really wished I had realized that I didn't need a man and didn't need a partner and just carried on but I get it all now and I plan to live 36 more years so it is never too late to learn a lesson.
Proudest accomplishment?
A: I have a grand daughter who was born Sept. 2018 and one second after she was born I whispered in her ear and told her that I will be around til she's 40. I am a Bubby (the Jewish word for grandmother) and I love it. But that doesn't define me. I do love being older and wiser. I do miss my less wrinkly skin and a better functioning vagina (thin skin, lube issues.) but I stay healthy. I walk about 12 km every morning and eat well.
What was your most monumental aha moment?
A: I feel smarter and wiser than I did even 10 years ago. I am proud of my storytelling/stand up "career". I have been stopped on the street by people who have seen my shows and loved them. I am also proud of how my 3 offspring turned out. It was hit and miss but they turned out okay even though I was yearning to be single almost all of my marriage.
Have you experienced ageism?
A: I don't feel I am experiencing ageism cuz I don't walk around feeling (or looking, hopefully) like an old lady. I also smoke weed daily and that keeps me feeling fun and happy.
What’s your message to the world?
A: My message (which I proclaim loudly to all) is you can be anything and live anything. Conjure up your dreams and desires and they will happen.
Favourite band, book, artist?
A: I love all the amazing music from 60's and 70's especially John Lennon, Joni Mitchell, Laura Nyro. I love music and listen ALL the time. I love current interests too. Glen Hansard, Basia Bulat, Frazey Ford, Donovan Woods. I read voraciously, getting my ideas from the New York Times Book review cuz I get the New York Times delivered every Sunday and love that treat.
What sparks your joy these days?
A: I am feeling so joyful to have wonderful friends. (only about 3 my age, all the rest are much younger than me) and my great kids. And of course my wonderful grand daughter. I love my beautiful Parkdale home I bought in 2009 when I left my husband. I am joyful every time I enter my house and sometimes am tearful thinking about my good fortune. I am beyond grateful.
What’s next for you? What does your future self look like?
A: My future self is relived and happy to not worry about all the stuff I cared about before. Especially what others think of me.
Do you feel visible?
A: I feel visible because I live my life like that. I engage with people and as I mentioned above, most of my friends are 45 and under in age. My closest friend will be 36 in July and I am older than her mom. Hanging out with younger friends keeps me visible! Also, I do not work anymore and that was a huge thing for me. I worked at very busy hard waitressing gigs for so long. I do enjoy my ability to do what I want and seem to have a crazy amount of leisure time.