“Write your next chapter. It might surprise you.”
Judy was born in a small fishing village in Newfoundland, where life was shaped by the ocean. The rhythm of the waves, the strength it took to live by the sea, and the deep sense of community all became part of who she is.
“The ruggedness of the landscape and the hardships of life helped shape my character,” Judy says. “It taught me how to be resilient, how to work hard, and how to appreciate the simple joys. It also taught me the importance of helping others. Life isn’t just about you.”
Now living at Stouffville Creek Retirement Residence, Judy is continuing to live fully, with intention and boldness. For her, being bold means finally having the time and space to do the things she once put on hold.
“This chapter of my life is mine. I’m trying new things, meeting new people, and giving back in ways that are meaningful to me,” she shares. “I’m part of this residence, and I’m part of the greater Stouffville community too. That matters.”
Connection is a big part of that for Judy. She believes in staying open to friendship, to joy, and to possibilities. She embraces all the parts of life that bring happiness and growth, on her own terms.
Finding home at Stouffville Creek
When Judy made the move from Newfoundland, she toured a few different residences. It was the setting at Stouffville Creek that first caught her eye.
“I loved the trees, the meadow, and the quiet lane. But it was the team members who made the biggest impression. And once I moved in, I found real community here,” she says.
She quickly discovered how connected the neighbourhood around the residence is. Judy joined the 55+ Seniors Club nearby and began attending local events. “I realized how much this place had to offer. The people are friendly. The energy is good. Location really is everything.”
Life in motion
If you ask Judy what she’s up to these days, be prepared for a list.
“I exercise with music. I take part in Fit Minds. I helped start the Green Team. I’m submitting writing this year and started a writing club. I performed in the Christmas concert. I tried stand-up comedy. I cook, I dance, and I go to every festival I can in the summer.”
Judy doesn’t just participate. She leads, creates, and lifts others up. It is part of what gives her life meaning.
One of her most special memories happened on a rainy afternoon when a Patio on the Park concert was moved inside. “I wasn’t sure what to expect but I went anyway,” she recalls. “The band started playing and I started dancing. Soon, a group of young people joined me.”
At the end of the concert, a young couple with a baby asked to take a photo with her.
“I was humbled,” she says. “They saw something in me. It reminded me that people are always watching, and maybe sometimes we inspire others without even knowing it.”
Judy’s advice on bold living
“Don’t just sit around waiting for someone to do things for you. Go out and do it yourself,” Judy says. “In the end, you’ll be proud of what you made happen. Be yourself. Seniors are often expected to act a certain way, but I don’t follow that.”
Judy wears what makes her feel confident. If it feels like her, she wears it.
“I respect myself, and I respect the people around me,” she says. “That’s what matters.”
