Since joining our resident care staff 12 years ago, Elaine Norton has made her presence known in many ways.
Not least of which is her sense of humor, and her very distinctive—and highly infectious—laugh. When it shatters the solemn mood of a serious bingo game, players exchange knowing smiles, laugh, and say, “Elaine’s here!”
Elaine is always ready to assist with activities. Should a resident struggle with their putting stroke, Elaine —an avid golfer—quickly steps to the tee to offer pointers. She has a real passion for arts and crafts, and eagerly joins in with residents on any creative project.
“I’m very crafty, yes,” she said, laughing. And rest assured, Elaine’s finished work will be unique. By meticulously blending paints, she recently transformed a bland, miniature bird house into a tiny, weathered-looking fishing shack.
A 30-year resident of Sandwich, Elaine has three adult children, and also cares for her 6-y
ear-old grandson, Liam. The household also includes Boo, her beloved 14-year-old, black cat.
Prior to moving to the Cape, Elaine ran her own florist shop in her native
Needham. Next, she and her husband operated a successful Sandwich-based landscaping business.
Following her husband’s death, 17 years ago, Elaine transitioned to the healthcare field, which led her to Decatur House. “Now I’m on my third profession. I have to keep working until I can afford an eyelift!” she said, laughingly.
A typical day off, weather permitting, finds Elaine on a golf course or at the beach. “I love my beach!” she said. “I used to love going in my camper to Sandy Neck.”
Elaine is also quite content to stay at home, an idyllic-sounding setting featuring a Koi pond, swimming pool and gardens. “I love sitting by my pool in the summer,” she said. “And I love my flowers and vegetables,” she said.
Did we mention that she also loves cooking? “My mother-in-law was from Italy, so I’m very good at Italian food,” she said.” Her specialties include veal or chicken parmesan, and meatballs.
When the weather forces her to stay indoors, and she finally tires of crafts and cooking, Elaine might pass the time watching movies.
Which movies are her favorites? “Anything with Tom Hanks and Goldie Hawn!” she said.
Thanks Elaine for the many years of service, your kind care and that infectious laugh!
By Maureen “Mo” Boyce, Activities Coordinator
