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Editor's note: This is one in an occasional series of chats with local seniors about their lives, youthful aspirations, sources of pride and regret, plus a bit of wisdom to share with younger folks.
The following is an interview with Dorothy Derby, 70, a retired front desk receptionist from Fairfield.
Q: Do you live in Fairfield?
A: Yes. One year.
Q: Are you married?
A: Widowed since 2008.
Q: Children?
A: Three.
Q: Grandchildren.
A: Three.
Q: Are you retired?
A: Yes.
Q: What did you do when you worked full-time?
A: Nursing home front desk receptionist -- meet, greet, gab.
Q: What did you want to be when you grew up?
A: I wasn't sure.
Q: What was a significant memory or defining moment in your childhood?
A: Parents were from Ireland. Was a very pleasant childhood. I loved it. It was filled with Irish music. Everyone was happy.
Q: What are your main hobbies and interests?
A: Knitting. I love skiing when the opportunity presents itself (but not too frequently have I had the chance to ski of late.) I knit and crochet hats, scarves, blankets for adults, children and babies. The biggest production was a queen-size blanket for my daughter. It got so heavy I couldn't bring it to the Fairfield Senior Center anymore. I had to finish it at home.
Q: Do you have a favorite work of art?
A: Anything by Pablo Picasso.
Q: What music do you listen to and what is your favorite piece of music?
A: Anything and everything Irish.
Q: What T.V. show do you watch regularly?
A: I just listen to the news.
Q: Who do you think was the best President of the United States?
A: I'm not sure I have a favorite.
Q: If you could tell the President of the United States one thing, what would it be?
A: Keep up the good work.
Q: What is your greatest guilty pleasure?
A: I feel it's knitting too much.You do either one thing or nothing.
Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?
A: When people don't accept other people. Some people go through life with upturned noses!
Q: What, if anything, are you greatly concerned about?
A: Nothing. If something comes up, I just let it go.
Q: Best piece of advice for the younger generation?
A: Think before you act.
Q: What brings you your greatest joy?
A: Someone who knows how to laugh. I am also overjoyed to observe someone thinking kindly about other people.
Q: What are you looking forward to?
A. Spending time with family, especially grandchildren ages 5, 7 and 10. That is why I moved from Stonington to Fairfield when I retired from the nursing home. I'd love to look forward to skiing. Physically, I am still able to do that.
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