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In June 2024, I turned 49 years old and was already the “Mimi” to an adorable little boy that my son and his wife created. I had my son when I was only 17, so he’s a full grown man with a whole family now.
From the start of 2024, I felt a little lost, not knowing how I was going to spend the rest of my life now as a single, empty-nesting, grandma. Then, one of the most unexpected things happened…
The Tortured Poets Department was everywhere. I gave in to the peer pressure, listened to the album, and suddenly—I was obsessed.
For months, it was all I played. Then I moved on to Lover, Reputation, and all the others. Somehow, I had completely missed the fact that Taylor Swift had evolved from the Teardrops on My Guitar girl into this insanely talented, complex songwriter who now spoke directly to my midlife soul.
On TTPD she was talking about big girl problems now, and suddenly, I could relate.
Falling into the Taylor Swift Rabbit Hole
I started following Swifties and learning about all the lore and drama surrounding each song. And then I found out about the Eras Tour.
Watching the concert, I saw thousands of people, from every walk of life, all celebrating something together. The energy was unreal. People weren’t just attending a concert—they were fully immersed in something magical.
And I realized something: Taylor isn’t just an artist. She’s a mastermind. (another great song of hers!) She has built a community where people feel safe, seen, and connected—at any age. And I wanted in.
When my mom side-eyed me with a “I can’t believe my daughter is a Swiftie”, like it was something to be ashamed of, here’s what I told her about Taylor:
💡 She’s from Pennsylvania, the oldest of two kids, with a younger brother. I’m from Ohio and also a big sister to a little bro!
💡 She is fiercely protective of her people. Same!
💡 She is generous beyond belief. She’s out here donating to food banks, giving bonuses to workers, and changing lives in every city she tours in.
💡 She creates a safe space for ALL people. The Eras Tour wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of inclusivity, joy, and community. That’s powerful.
💡 She’s a business genius. Sure, she has a great team, but you can tell she’s in control. There’s a reason there are college courses dedicated to her career.
And most importantly…
💡 She is so unfairly hated. Even the President underestimated her influence. Meanwhile, she could send one tweet and change the world.
What Being a Swiftie Taught Me About Life (And Being a Cool Grandma)
1️⃣ You’re Never Too Old to Find Something New That Excites You
I didn’t expect to get hooked on Taylor Swift at 49, but here we are. And honestly? It’s been fun learning something totally new, getting into the theories, and seeing how she connects with her fans.
2️⃣ Hard Work & Dedication Pay Off
Say what you want, but Taylor is one of the hardest-working people in the world. She’s built an empire on her terms, proving that persistence, passion, and staying true to yourself actually work.
3️⃣ Finding Joy in the Little Things Matters
There’s something so pure about playing the Eras Tour outfit prediction games, watching grainy livestreams, and debating setlists with strangers online. It reminded me that joy can come from the smallest, most unexpected places.
The Best Part of 2024? Becoming a Mimi Again.
Also in April 2024, just a few short days after TTPD dropped – I became a Mimi to my grand-daughter, Wrenley! Taylor Swift is not more important than this little girl AT ALL. But, I had to start my story with that before this part made any sense.
So, I’ve known my little Wrenley-Bee less than a year. She is the most beautiful little girl I’ve ever seen and I can’t wait to watch her grown in to a strong, successful woman one day – maybe even like Taylor Swift.
This is why I say these two things go together, sort of. In my mind, April 2024 was a sign for me to know all I can about Taylor, learn her songs, etc. so when Wrenley gets older, I might just be a cool grandma. If Taylor is still doing her thing, I’ll have something fun I can share that with my grand-daughter. We can dress up, have karaoke nights, watch old Eras tour videos – all things Swiftie.
I would have thought my grandmas were cool if we bonded over Stevie Nicks or something! Instead, my dad introduced me to Fleetwood Mac, but it was kind of gross because he seemed to like Stevie more for her sex appeal than her music. It’s just not the same experience I’m trying to create with my Wrenley. [Oh no, I just realized, I probably did this same exact thing with my son – regarding Tupac and Nelly – oops! I’ll have to apologize next time I see him.]
My son is about Taylor’s age, so that means I’m old enough to be her mom. Maybe that’s why I hope – after hearing all her relationship struggles and the crap she gets from the world about them – I truly hope she has found a real and lasting love with Travis. He seems like a great guy that can really do right by her – finally a “real man.” As much as I wish this for Taylor, it’s at least 100 times more for my precious, little Wrenley!
If you made it this far, I appreciate your time – I just wanted to ramble a little about the important events of last year. I only raised a boy, so having a grand daughter is a whole new experience – especially in the world we live in right now. But, man, I can’t wait to teach her to “Shake It Off!!!” Thank you Taylor!
PIM Community Question:
What’s Something Unexpected That Changed Your Year? Did you become obsessed with something totally random? Find a new hobby? Let me know in the comments!
If you have a “becoming a Swiftie” story, I’d love to see it – so leave your blog in comments or send me a message.
And if you want to read more about my life as a Mimi, empty-nester, and midlife adventurer, check out my latest posts here! If you also want some Freebie, sign up below and get the Freebie Vault link in your email. I add more useful worksheets and guides regularly!
