In order to create a lasting memory with her grandma in Geneva, Illinois, 31-year-old photographer Abby Griffin came up with the idea of getting matching tattoos for the two of them. Abby was uncertain whether Elaine Jaecks, her 87-year-old grandma, would even consider the proposal, much less accept it. You can only imagine how shocked she was when Elaine said yes.
Elaine, who has a reputation for being daring in her family, didn’t simply concur. She welcomed the notion with the same audacious vigor that has characterized her entire existence.
According to an exclusive article by People, Abby claims that the years they spent together and their lighter discussions served as her inspiration.
She remembers that we used to joke about it all the time, but when she said, “Let’s do it,” I realized it had to be something important.
The choice of a hummingbird as the tattoo design was made immediately. One of Elaine’s favorite things to observe in her garden is this species. Additionally, it represents fortitude, happiness, and self-reliance—qualities Abby witnesses her grandma exhibiting on a daily basis.
On TikTok, Abby Griffin posted a video that went viral showing her and her grandmother receiving matching hummingbird tattoos. It’s adorable!~98FROGUTBjt https://t.co/0du1p
Aug. 11, 2025 98FROG (@98frogonline)
They invited Abby’s aunt to attend and established a date. The three then traveled to Geneva, Illinois, to visit Silver Lining Tattoo. Pedro, their tattoo artist, gave them a warm welcome.
The oldest client Pedro has ever worked with is Elaine. He gave the occasion the respect and consideration it merited because he understood that it was a once-in-a-lifetime chance.
Elaine was sitting quietly in the chair as Abby confessed to having pre-session nervousness. She gave a confident thumbs-up and posed for photos. Everyone was in awe of her poise.
Elaine later said, “That wasn’t bad at all.”
In her late eighties, she compared getting inked to sipping tea in the afternoon.
The tattoos appeared vivid and elegant. It was positioned such that every woman could see them with ease. It will serve as a memory of their time together every day.
She’s just sitting there like an iPad babypic, and this is honestly the most excruciating place I’ve ever had a tattoo.Twitter: https://www.nmtq1DSyEA
b (@rheashorror) 17 July 2023
The day had been full of calm contemplation and laughter, according to Abby. She connected with her grandmother on a profound level.
Getting a tattoo wasn’t the only thing involved. According to her, it was about marking time together and writing a story that we would both remember for the rest of our lives.
Elaine’s happy disposition is evident in all that she does. Her happiness and smiling were contagious even while she was receiving this tattoo.
Abby describes mom as a fierce, strong, and extremely supportive woman who has never shied away from voicing her opinions. Abby has always found inspiration in her brave outlook on life.
I’ve learned from her that life is too short to be cautious or to follow the herd. “You must do the things that bring you joy,” says Abby.
Apo Whang Od, also known as Maria Whang Od Oggay. She recently appeared on the cover of Vogue magazine #WomensArtpic.twitter.com/yi9ynKX3ik She is the oldest tattoo artist from the Northern Mountains of the Philippines, at the age of 106.
April 4, 2023 #WOMENSART (@womensart1)
A new family custom has now been established as a result of the event. Abby’s sister was unable to attend the appointment since life sometimes interferes, but she won’t be abandoned for long because she intends to get the same hummingbird tattoo to commemorate the memory.
Elaine herself has hinted that she may not be finished with tattoos just yet, as one might expect. Abby is certain that this is more than just idle chatter.
People from all over the world have praised Elaine’s bravery in the video, which has received over 1.3 million views since Abby posted their tale on TikTok. Many viewers expressed their desire to be as daring as she was at her age in their comments.
