And just like that, I’m back featuring another fabulous lady over the age of 50. You met many of them here on The Age of Grace Women of Grace series. I admire these beauties with a certain je nais sais quoi. In September, you met the newly published author, Dr. Robyn Joppy, earlier this year, Silver Sneaker Fitness Guru, Sheila, a few years back singer-actress, Lesley, and, of course, my bestie, Cynthia.
Today, the latest Women of Grace: Meet O Magazine Insider, Elaine Davis.
My name is Elaine Davis. I’ve always wished I had a middle name. I almost legally gave myself one as an adult. I’m 55 years old, was born and raised in New York City, and I currently reside there. I have two adult children: a 32-year-old son, and a 24-year-old daughter. I’m a senior court associate in the New York State Unified Court System.
Square Pearls, the name of your blog, not a common term when one thinks of pearls. What was your inspiration for this title?
I thought for quite some time about a suitable name for my blog. I wanted a catchy name, but not a catchy name that didn’t have any meaning. I wanted a name that would stick in a person’s mind. I’ve always loved pearls. I think they’re classy and beautiful. They speak to my feminine side. Though, I absolutely love ripped jeans and sneakers.
I thought Square Pearls was the perfect way to describe myself, and women like me. Women of a certain age, who are timeless like pearls, yet unapologetically edgy and cool.
I see on your Instagram profile that you are an O Magazine Insider. First of all, congratulations! Do tell us about the experience, and how long does it last?
My Oprah Magazine Ambassadorship is one of the most exciting opportunities that I’ve ever had. Its been so amazing meeting and interacting with other women and men that love all things, Oprah. The ambassadorship is for a one-year term, after which I’m required to apply again for consideration next year.
I do love to read, and I’ve passed that love onto my children. I have a ton of books. My twenty-four-year-old daughter has one whole bookshelf that holds all her childhood books. She has everything from her very first pillow-soft infant book, to her preteen bible. There are so many books that I’m nuts about reading. If I had to name a couple, I would say The Color Purple and The Alchemist.
The about page on your blog, Square Pearls, says staying fit is a priority this phase of your life. What’s your approach to staying healthy?
Physically staying fit has become an essential part of my journey now that I’m over fifty. The goal for me is to approach it holistically. I try to eat healthy most of the time, exercise and practice good spiritual and mental hygiene.
What is your best healthy habit?
My best healthy habit is drinking plenty of water. I start every morning with a glass of warm lemon water. When we’re sleeping, we’re fasting, and it’s the perfect way to break one’s fast.
I would be lying if I said I liked working out. I’ve grown to tolerate it because I know it’s necessary to maintain a healthy body and mind.
My daughter, Channing, met you recently at an NYC blogger event. She mentioned how gorgeous you are, as well as your glowing skin. Can you share your beauty routine and you’re preferred products?
Thank you, I appreciate the compliment. I firmly believe that topical gels and portions can only do but so much. Don’t get me wrong, there are some excellent skin care products on the market, like the ISDIN brand of Vitamin C serums, which I love. I also use a superb tretinoin based product most days. My advice to every woman over forty would be, find yourself a great aesthetician and have a chemical peel. It’s life-changing.
Tell us about your recent travels to Europe and South Africa?
When I stepped foot onto South Africa soil, two words, blown away. I felt a spiritual shift like I’ve never felt before. It was such a beautiful place to see, and I met some wonderful local people.
I look forward to the day when I can return and explore other countries in Africa. My recent travels to Europe was brief, and I didn’t do as much venturing in Paris and England as I would’ve liked. I plan on returning in 2020.
How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as multi-faceted. I love to wear everything from ripped jeans to sequin maxi skirts. I don’t have a set look, but I do have a fondness for wearing sneakers with dresses. I’ve been wearing them for years. I’m happy that the rest of the fashion world caught on.
The Women of Grace all represent ladies with great faith. How has your faith helped you through any difficult times?
My faith is the cornerstone of my existence. Prayer and my faith in God have helped me through the roughest point in my life. Between 2003 and 2008, I lost my mom, my father, my sister, and got divorced. It was only through his grace that I made it through. I don’t know what I would do without it.
And there you go, another très chic beauty being unapologetically fierce. Perhaps you follow Elaine’s Square Pearls blog, or maybe on Instagram. Elaine covers all social media platforms. Don’t forget Pinterest and Facebook; She’s a must follow.
Elaine, thank you for allowing me to get up close and personal as a Women of Grace. I know others will find inspiration in your journey as a woman of a certain age, a style maven as well as Mom, and O Magazine Insider.
I’d love to hear from you about O Magazine Insider Elaine! You can comment on the Facebook post or here utilizing the Disqus blogger comment app.
As always beauties, thank you for reading. Have a fabulous next few weeks. I will be on holiday, stay tuned on my Insta Stories.
