Lauren Farmer 21/8/24 Lauren Farmer 21/8/24

someone i miss

I think the person I miss the most is my maternal Grandmother. We called her Granny. I miss her every day.

I have the most fantastic memories growing up going to Granny and Grandad’s. We would go there at least once a week, usually on a weekend for a baked dinner lunch, or chicken and chips. Usually, my cousins would come as well, and there was lots of playing in the backyard. There were lots of large rocks, and many nooks to hide and play games.

Christmas was also spent with Granny and Grandad. Again, there was lots of playing, swimming and running around as kids.

We would celebrate any special occasion: birthdays, Christmas, Easter, Mother's and Father’s Day as a family

As I grew older, and I was the oldest grandchild; we held a special bond. We would chat often, and she was so proud when I got into university to become a nurse.

I will always miss her. I still have some guilt that I wasn’t there when she passed away. I was so upset when I found out but was a 10-hour drive from home. My mum didn’t want me driving home in utter distress but was with friends to support me.

Lauren Farmer 19/8/24 Lauren Farmer 19/8/24

earliest childhood memory

My earliest childhood memory is of my great-grandmother's birthday. I am not sure how old she was, but she lived in a Nursing Home.

I think I was about 2 years old, and I remember going to a park In Nowra (2 hours south of Sydney where I live).

I remember playing in the park and having cake.

Granny's house with my cousins

But of all my childhood memories one of my favourite memories was going to my maternal grandparent’s house. We were there at least once a week, and often with my cousins. There are 5 girl cousins. There are 8 years between the oldest (myself), and the youngest. So, we all pretty much grew up together.

We were always over there, playing in the backyard, which had a lot of rocks, and hiding holes. It was great for playing. Many great games were played there.

Also, we had lunch over there weekly on a Sunday. It was always Chicken and Chips, which we all loved! It was great, especially reflecting as an adult, that now we are all still close.

Taronga Zoo

But I think my definite favourite memory was going to Taronga Zoo to see the Giant Pandas in 1988. My family went with my Aunty Lynda (my mum’s older sister), and I remember it being a great day. I know we had to line up for the pandas for a while, but as a 7-year-old, it was just FUN! My Aunty Lynda is my favourite Aunt. This is because we are both the oldest sister of 3 girls!

My Aunty Lynda has always looked out for me, and I hope to be the same for my nieces and nephews.