Have you lived in other places besides Lynden?
I was born in Mount Vernon and lived there for most of my life. My family moved to New York for two years when I was in high school to be near family, but we missed Washington and our friends here, so we moved back to Mount Vernon. I moved about 10 years ago to Kendall to live with my daughter.
What was your first job?
Working in the library.
What other types of work did you do before retiring?
Pretty much that! I did everything, and all the stuff you had to do before computers to find books for people and check them out. I did the card catalogues and shelving using the Dewey Decimal System. I also did some work as a licensed tutor of English and history.
What was your favorite thing about the work you did?
I love books, so being surrounded by books was just awesome! And all the people you get to meet.
What is one thing that you have been most proud of in your life?
My daughter. And my grandchild and great-grandchild.
What is the hardest thing that you’ve lived through, and how did you get through it?
My parents dying. It was hard.
What was your favorite decade to live in, and why?
The ’70s — it’s when my daughter was born.
Who is your favorite author or musician?
Shakespeare.
Do you have a favorite play?
Julius Caesar. I like them all, but that’s my favorite!
Do you have a favorite song, inspirational quote or Bible verse?
- Song: The theme from Ghost: “Unchained Melody,” by The Righteous Brothers.
- Bible verse: Psalm 23.
- Hymn: “Standing on the Promises.”
What is one life lesson that you learned from your parents?
You’re going to laugh. This one is from my mom: “North, south, east, west — where He is found, God is best!”
What is one piece of advice that you would give a 16-year-old person?
Whatever you do, always make at least one other person happy each day. Because when that person is happy, you are happy.
Actually there are two pieces. The other is this: “Have patience.”
What is one thing most people don’t know about you, but you wish they did?
I am epileptic.
What is one thing that you like about living at CHCC?
It’s a Christian place and shares many of the things I believe in.