Lyla reflects on a life well lived as she celebrates her 100th birthday
For 100-year-old Lyla Richards, life is about having adventures and driving a car.
The popular Kilpatrick Court resident was in a reflective mood as she celebrated her milestone on Saturday (May 17) in style.
Maintaining her independence, enjoying making new friends, telling stories, and sharing conversations as she walks the corridors of the Anglican Care residence, Lyla is living proof that life is what you make it.
“My name is Lyla. I first came to Australia to visit my family here and holiday, not long after I decided to go home to New Zealand, sell up my home and move here.
“I still to this day experience terrible home sickness, though I do love it here in Australia.
” I often think about home, the people I knew, places I’ve been, times of singing in the choir and on the radio, and in the nursing homes, how I grew up and the things I’ve learnt in my lifetime. They are now all JUST memories.
“The most treasured parts of my life include watching my four children grow and achieve their goals and growing their own families.
“Driving. I have vivid memories of driving my grandchildren around a lot, I loved driving, and I miss my car.
“The care I receive in my home now at Kilpatrick court, the staff are absolutely lovely and I appreciate them so very much and the people I have met here at Kilpatrick court ; I have made many friends sitting in the dining room and throughout activities, the conversations we have about old times is my favourite.
“My hobbies at age 100 are colour therapy, knitting and reading.
Her words of advice are simple.
” Think about your memories and they will comfort you in times you need.
” Living your life and enjoying what you’ve got right Infront of you, that’s my advice.
“Enjoy the people and not material things.
“Live with no regrets.”
– Happy 100th Birthday Lyla from all of us at Newcastle Anglican
