A Conversation with Katherine: A Life Well Lived
102 Years of Life, Community, and Support in Tain
Katherine’s paint-by-numbers inspired by Van Gogh’s Sunflowers.
Growing Up in Tain
We recently had the privilege of sitting down with Katherine in her cosy bungalow in Tain, or as she quickly reminded us, “It’s a Royal Burgh!” – to hear about her life. Katherine grew up in Tain as an only child. At 16, she moved to Glasgow to spend time with her aunt, just as the world was changing around her. She recalled:
“I was in Glasgow in 1939, just about to start college. I was at church when the minister stood up and said, ‘We are at war.’ That was it, so I returned home.”
Life During the War
Back in Tain, she started working at the local Post Office.
“I wasn’t paid at first, but there was so much to do.”
People queued out the door to send letters and telegrams to their loved ones, staying connected during uncertain times. At home, life was busy too. At one point, her parents and she had eleven servicemen staying in their attic, and sometimes whole families lived with them.
Katherine’s father was the local greengrocer, and helping with rations became part of her routine. After work at the Post Office, she would help her dad in the evenings, cutting up ration coupons and sorting food. After her father passed away, Katherine and her mother sold the shop and built the bungalow she still lives in.
“The sea view’s disappearing behind the trees, but it’s still beautiful.”
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Katherine's favourite art work.
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Adventures and Travel
Her love for travel was clear as she recounted holidays with her best friend Margaret. One of her favourite trips was sailing down the Rhine from Amsterdam to Switzerland.
“I loved it so much, I did it again for my honeymoon.”
In 1973, she married Uisdean, and together they travelled to Naples, Venice, and many other places.
Celebrating a Century of Life
Katherine talked about the hobbies she’s enjoyed over the years, bowling with the ladies at St Duthus, painting, and keeping up with the local paper. Living alone, her support visits have become an important part of her day.
“Some days, they’re the only faces I see.”
With her 102nd birthday coming up, the team wanted to do something that felt personal. They arranged a paint-by-numbers based on a house in Helmsdale where her father was born. A small way to mark the day and celebrate the stories that continue to shape her life.
Katherine welcoming Andrew Thomson, Carr Gomm’s Chief Executive, during his recent visit.
Living Well at Home
Katherine is supported by our Care at Home service, which helps her continue living independently in the place she loves. To read more stories like hers and learn about our work across the Highlands, please visit our Highland page.