Dot Robinson says women have a lot more rights these days compared to the time when she was growing up.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The 93-year-old lives at Cedar Place Aged Care and said women from her era were expected to marry and have children.
Dot and her husband Dudley had five children together. Dot said there was no pill back in her day but she couldn't imagine life without her children and loves them all very much.
Dot grew up in Parkes, before moving to Sydney. She met her husband in the city. Dudley, Dot's future husband, had a very noisy watch, which he would wind up to get her attention.
The couple married before Dudley left to fight in World War II. When he returned Dot said unfortunately he was a changed man, like many others who came face to face with the atrocities of war.
Dudley was originally from Kempsey and the couple chose to make their home at Euroka, where they had a dairy farm.
Dot said it was a big change coming from the city but farm life was a great way to raise their five children.
Dot got used to the early mornings and the farm work which she undertook. She took over a lot of the work on the farm, as Dudley's health faltered after the war.
Throughout her life, Dot has learnt a lot and said there have been many happy times and some sad times too.
"Life is only what you make it," she said.
"It's not easy but it teaches you a lot of lessons."
Life is only what you make it.
- Dot Robinson
After 55 years of marriage Dudley passed away. Dot chose to move into Cedar Place Aged Care as she didn't want to live on her own anymore. She's been at the centre for five years.
"I've always thought what a lovely place this is," she said.
"When I first walked in the doors, there was a lovely atmosphere and feeling of peace and warmth which welcomes you in.
"I thought this is going to be my home."
Dot enjoys keeping busy and is passionate about gardening, arts and craft. She also participates in the exercise classes.
She said the staff at Cedar Place Aged Care go the extra mile to ensure residents are happy.
"On birthdays they cook cake for us which is just wonderful," she said.
Dot doesn't understand why some residents choose to sit inside all day. She said it's important to stay active and interact with other people on a daily basis.
Dot has eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
The NSW Seniors Festival kicked off on February 11 and there are a number of activities people can get involved in locally.
The full calendar for the Seniors Festival can be found on the Kempsey Shire Council's website.
What else is making news?
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Macleay Argus. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE