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 Gerri G.
Have you lived in other places besides Lynden?
I was born in McMinnville, Oregon, and grew up in Superior, Wisconsin, in the northern part of the state. I moved back to Portland, Oregon, in 1960.
What was your first job?
I worked in the curtain department at Woolworth’s in Portland, Oregon, when I was 18.
What other types of work did you do before retiring?
I married in 1961 and followed my husband, who was a chemical engineer, as his job took us to different places in Oregon. I attended Portland Community College and became an activities director in the late 1970s.
What was your favorite thing about the work you did?
I just loved the people when I was an activities director—they were so much fun. There was never a dull moment!
What is one thing that you have been most proud of in your life?
I’m most proud of my four daughters, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. We’re expecting our third great-grandchild very soon.
What is the hardest thing that you’ve lived through, and how did you get through it?
The loss of my son. I got through it with prayer.
What was your favorite decade to live in, and why?
It’s hard to have a favorite—each one had something special.
Who is your favorite author or musician?
I love to read, especially Amish stories. I like them because they focus on family values centered around faith and usually have happy endings. I like happy endings.
Do you have a favorite song, inspirational quote or Bible verse?
“How Great Thou Art” is my favorite song. I love all the old Christian hymns.
What is one life lesson that you learned from your parents?
Family comes first.
What is one piece of advice that you would give a 16-year-old person?
Slow down and listen.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you, but you wish they did?
That I’m ornery! (My husband would agree with that.)
What is one thing that you like about living at CHCC?
I’m enjoying getting to know everybody. I’m so blessed to have so many people praying for me and to feel supported by our church community.