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 Q&A session we did with Lamar V.
Have you lived in other places besides Lynden?
I was born and raised in Lynden. I lived in the same house on Jackman Road where I was born, and I ran a dairy farm there for 33 years.
What was your first job?
My first job was picking strawberries for Marshall Bayes when I was 14. I also did a lot of farm chores, like bringing the cows in. Later, I worked outdoors on the farm with crops and all kinds of farm work.
What other types of work did you do before retiring?
I was a schoolteacher at Ebenezer Christian School for 7th and 8th grade, and I was also the principal. That was my first job after I got out of the Army.
What was your favorite thing about the work you did?
I enjoyed teaching. When I was leaving the military, I had a little bit of a hard time deciding whether to continue my education or take a teaching job. I got a letter offering me the teaching job and decided to go that route. On the farm, I loved being outdoors and doing the variety of work.
What is one thing that you have been most proud of in your life?
I’m most proud of my six children and especially that they know the Lord as their Savior. I also have 27 grandchildren and 54 great-grandchildren.
What is the hardest thing that you’ve lived through, and how did you get through it?
We lost our 16-year-old granddaughter Jess in a car accident in California. We got through it by leaning hard into our faith.
What was your favorite decade to live in, and why?
The 1960s, because the kids were home. Even though we were busy, it was a special time.
Who is your favorite author or musician?
I don’t have a favorite, but I love the old hymns and gospel songs.
Do you have a favorite song, inspirational quote or Bible verse?
“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24
What is one life lesson that you learned from your parents?
Church and God come first in life.
What is one piece of advice that you would give a 16-year-old person?
Be careful when you drive. Drive safely and be responsible.
What is one thing that you like about living at CHCC?
The staff do a good job answering my questions. They are friendly and cheerful.