Ahead of Mother’s Day, we sat down with four remarkable great-grandmothers at Foxholes to talk about motherhood, family life and how the world has changed across the generations.
As the ladies reflected on life as mothers, grandmothers and now great-grandmothers, one theme stood out: while the world has changed enormously, the heart of family life has not.
They shared memories of Christmases from years gone by, when families gathered under one roof and children raced downstairs before their parents were even awake. Some even remembered wartime childhoods, when celebrations were simpler and a thoughtful gesture meant more than an expensive gift. While occasions today can sometimes feel more commercial, they agreed the joy of being together still matters most.
When asked what makes a happy family, their answers were simple: love, close relationships and tolerance. They also spoke about the importance of allowing younger generations the freedom to grow into themselves and make their own choices.
Diane pictured with her daughter Claire, grandson Thomas, his wife Jade, and great-grandchildren Darcie and Freya.
Their advice to parents today was equally reassuring. “Don’t panic,” one said with a smile. “Enjoy it.”
Resident Dora , who raised five children including two sets of twins, laughed as she remembered the busy years of motherhood. Life could be chaotic at times, she said, but she loved every minute of it.
The ladies also reflected on how childhood itself has changed. They remembered long days spent outdoors with friends, kicking a ball in the road and only returning home when someone came calling them in.
Resident Elizabeth said one of the biggest differences she notices today is the confidence young people have. When she was growing up, children were expected to be “seen and not heard”. Today, she admires the way children are encouraged to speak up and express themselves.
Their advice for younger generations was clear: get outside, meet people, play sport and enjoy the fresh air. Real-life experiences, they believe, help children grow into tolerant and well-rounded adults.
A very special moment as Diane meets her baby great-grandson Elliott for the first time.
We were also lucky that two residents, Shirley and Diane, had family living nearby who were able to join us for photographs to celebrate the occasion. A particularly touching moment saw Diane’s grandson surprise her with a visit alongside his new baby - her great-grandson - meeting for the very first time.
Shirley, was also surrounded by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family describe her as funny, strong-willed and the creator of many cherished family occasions over the years. Shirley herself joked that being a great-grandparent is wonderful - although it can be “quite expensive”!
Shirley pictured with her son Ian, granddaughter Josie, grandson Ben, his wife Kate, and great-grandchildren Marlon and Forrest during their special four-generation family visit.
These are women who have watched the world move from rationing and radio to smartphones and social media. Through it all, they believe the foundations of family life remain the same: love, honesty, resilience and being there for one another.
At Foxholes, we feel fortunate to be surrounded by residents with such rich life experience and wisdom. Their reflections remind us that motherhood does not stop when children grow up. It continues through the generations, shaping families in ways that last a lifetime.
And from a great-grandmother’s perspective, perhaps the best advice of all is also the simplest: enjoy your family and never lose sight of what really matters.
