MANORISMS
Our Manorisms give you a chance to ‘sit down’ with the people who call Manor Court home.
In this Manorism, we meet Kathleen Dawson who shared some life stories with us and some photos of her beautiful garden at Manor Court.
What are the most important lessons you've learned in life?
To always be kind to others.
What advice would you pass on?
Look after your family and friends first.
What do you remember about your parents and grandparents?
My grandmother was old to me but when I count back the years, she was always the same. Mum was a quieter person than my dad, my dad I remember every year for Christmas would always play the trumpet and sing all different songs, it was so lovely.
What about the place you grew up?
I was six years old when World War II broke out and I was evacuated from London. I spent three years with another family, Mrs Mitchel and her husband. They also had kids and I was with them until the bombings quieted down a bit.
If you could go back to any age, what would it be and why?
I would love to be 30 again! That’s when Don and I were so adventurist with the kids. They were young and we were always going on camping trips. Even though Don and I didn’t have enough money, we still made sure to always make time with the kids and have fun. I was also able to walk and run back then, not like I am now! I loved that I could run after the kids, they were the best days.
What is the most ridiculous thing you have done?
Listening to my husband Don, back when we first got together! We had decided to get married but needed more money, so he told me to ask my boss for a raise and if he says no then ‘just leave the job’.
I went into work the next day, scared to ask my boss for more money. But I did ask him, and he said no. So, I left my job, mind you I really did love my job, when I got home and told Don he laughed at me and said, ‘why did you listen to me for?’.
What five things are most important in life?
Family, love, my husband Don, respect and to always appreciate things in life.
What does it take to be happy?
Tolerance and a good sense of humour.