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 Janice V.
Have you lived in other places besides Lynden?
I grew up in Shepherd, Montana, close to Billings, on a dairy farm.
What was your first job?
My first job was at J.C. Penney in Lynden on Front Street. I stocked shelves and ironed clothing.
What other types of work did you do before retiring?
I was asked to work at New Crescent Store, and I liked working there. I also taught junior high and high school. I didn’t have further education beyond grade 12, but it was more important who you were than your education. I could handle kids and enjoyed that.
What was your favorite thing about the work you did?
I liked meeting different people. At the store, customers had charge accounts during the war. I would sometimes check up on them because everyone would say, “Just charge it.”
What is one thing that you have been most proud of in your life?
I joined the church at age 13. I pushed for that because I wanted to be a member right away. I enjoyed a lot of the committee work at church as well.
What is the hardest thing that you’ve lived through, and how did you get through it?
We actually didn’t have any big hardships, thankfully. I always asked my dad for advice. He would tell you like it is.
What was your favorite decade to live in, and why?
I enjoyed being 40. The children were still at home, but not little anymore. It was a nice family time. I was needed and doing things.
Who is your favorite author or musician?
I am a big reader and enjoy life stories and biographies.
Do you have a favorite song, inspirational quote or Bible verse?
My favorite song is “One Day at a Time,” a well-known Christian song written by Kris Kristofferson and Marijohn Wilkin.
What is one life lesson that you learned from your parents?
They were always concerned and caring for other people. I learned from their example.
What is one piece of advice that you would give a 16-year-old person?
I would tell young people to learn from their elders.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you, but you wish they did?
I was married at 16, and my husband was 18. We were responsible and ready to buckle down. We enjoyed living on the farm and doing hard work. We grew sugar beets and a variety of crops. I went to a small county school for grade school and high school. It was a good way to go to school.
What is one thing that you like about living at CHCC?
I like the Christian community here.