Everyone has unique experiences in life. Each person has a story to tell and words of wisdom that can be shared with others. With that in mind, we’d like to introduce you to some of the wonderful people who live here at CHCC. Here is a recent resident spotlight interview we did with Roberta.
you lived in other places besides Lynden?
Yes. I grew up in Bellingham and spent some time living on Ohio Street.
What was your first job?
I worked at Georgia-Pacific before I was married, and then later as a telephone operator.
What other types of work did you do?
After marriage, I enjoyed life as a mother of four children. I enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening and raising my daughter and three sons.
I would also spend time with my husband on a fishing vessel. We used to catch salmon on the long journey to Alaska. For several years, I helped as a cook and was a great help to the crew. My husband was an electrician and commercial fisherman. He also later built apartment buildings.
What was your favorite thing about the work you did?
I took my role seriously as a mother and found it to be the most fulfilling thing I have ever done. At times it was busy–getting the kids ready for school with their lunches and books ready–but I wouldn’t change it at all.
What was your favorite decade to live in, and why?
My favorite time was when the children were small and mostly at home. I enjoyed reading stories to my children and singing Christmas carols together as a family. My family gave me a lot of joy.
What is one life lesson that you learned from your parents?
I had a great example in my parents, who taught me many things, especially to be honest. I would advise any young person to take good care of their family and to stay honest with them.
What is one thing that you like about living at CHCC?
I like spending time in the sun outside in the courtyard.