In episode 5 of Branches Between Generations, we sat down with Sophie and Joan as they discussed hobbies, volunteering, technology, family, and the uncertainty of the future.

Special thanks to Oceanside Physiotherapy for sponsoring this session!

Hobbies and Learning New Things

Sophie asked if Joan has any regrets about not doing any activities she wishes she had done. Joan expressed that it’s never too late and you can never be too old to learn something new.

At the Berwick, she’s learning new things — making an Indigenous drum, knitting, and learning something new every single day.

They even use the Crusaders app to track walking across Canada and back. It keeps everyone active and healthy.

Joan said her favourite sport or activity has been volunteering. She’s done it at the PanAm Games, university games in 1983, and even met the Queen, Charles, and Diana.

Beta Sigma Phi has allowed her to connect with many different groups and types of people.

Volunteering

For Joan, it’s all about helping others, not about recognition. She offers love and care just to make others feel cared for.

She volunteers at the North Shore Crisis Centre and knits scarves to help keep people warm. It’s never about her — it’s just about giving.

Sophie related by sharing how she had volunteered as a dance coach and how good that felt, too.

Technology

The conversation shifted to the distractions of technology. They talked about how powerful cell phones have become, and how much attention they take away from real human connection.

Education

Sophie is interested in politics and wants to help improve the country. She might even become a lawyer one day.

Joan encouraged her to follow her dreams, trust her heart, and go for it. She reminded Sophie that she absolutely can do it.

Sophie also shared that she’ll be class co-president in her final year of high school, alongside her friend.

World War II

Joan recalled living on a farm along the Alaska Highway during the war. They were afraid the Russians might attack from overhead. She remembered being so relieved when the war ended.

Her mom was known as “Rosie the Riveter” because she worked on the airplanes, doing rivet work.

Farming and Harvest

Joan grew up on a farm and talked about harvesting grain — stooking the straw, taking the grain to the mill, and the celebrations that followed the harvest.

An Uncertain Future

Joan shared her concerns about the state of the world today. She feels that everyone is too busy now and things aren’t the same as they used to be.

Sophie expressed that she has a hunger for positive change and wants more time with her extended family. Her passion for politics is one way she hopes to help shape the future.

Family

The girls chatted about prom. Joan was curious about Sophie’s dress choice, and Sophie shared that she’s going for something simple, elegant, and sophisticated — definitely not glitzy.

Thank you to Oceanside Physiotherapy

We sincerely appreciate the generous support from Oceanside Physiotherapy in sponsoring this session. Their commitment helps us create meaningful opportunities for community connection and intergenerational storytelling.