Our tenant Violet celebrates a very special birthday today (23 December)
Violet or “Sis” as she is known to friends and family, was born in Hackney, London in 1916. She grew up with nine siblings around her (5 brothers, 4 sisters).
Her first job was for a local Hackney firm as a dress and belt maker, moving up over the years to become a furrier. She married her husband Wal, an upholsterer, on Christmas Day 1939 and they had two children together. She recalls fondly their 75 years of marriage which included regular Ball Room Dancing, and trips away in their caravan to their favourite holiday destinations. “I’ve always liked being outside in the open air. I had some lovely times.”
Violet moved to Northampton over 35 years ago, and now lives at Eleonore House, our older persons housing complex.
They say age is just a number and Violet remains independent and very happy in her own home. “We’re looked after well by staff here. I don’t need carers and besides, I would only get frustrated if I couldn’t do what I wanted to do”.
When asking her what the secrets are to a long and healthy life, she said “I don’t let anything worry me. Looking back, I was very lucky. I wouldn’t alter my life for anything!”
Happy 100th Violet. We hope you have a great day with family and friends!