Meet the Resident
Jan
Jan is a quiet, modest woman who enjoys her own company and truth be told, she’s quite content keeping it that way. When asked if she’d like to be featured in “Meet the Resident,” she quickly replied, “I’m sure there’s more interesting people.” But as it turns out, Jan’s story has plenty to smile about. Before mastering the fine art of doing very little (which she insists she has well and truly earned), Jan worked at Whittaker’s Jewellers. Not long after, she married her husband Ron, and together they built a life full of hard work, running Carmen’s Bake House in Mayfield. Their pastry business became well known, especially for supplying local schools—keeping plenty of kids (and likely teachers) very happy over the years.
Jan’s greatest pride is her family. She has four children, who she lovingly describes as “bloody buggers”—a title given with equal parts honesty and affection. These days, the family has grown to include eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, with one more arriving very soon. Around the family, she’s best known by her much-loved nickname, “Nana Dangles” a name that certainly sparks curiosity! Life was never quiet in Jan’s earlier years. She fondly recalls there always being kids around, and alongside Ron, she was heavily involved in the local soccer club. Ron coached while Jan helped out, and together they travelled with the team as far as Malaysia and Singapore—no small adventure! These days, Jan prefers a slower pace but still enjoys a good chat—especially when someone pops in for a visit. While she may seem reserved at first, she has a warm and quietly cheeky sense of humour. She’s also a proud creature of habit, sticking to what she knows and loves—particularly her favourite dinner of a cheese toastie and custard. Why mess with perfection? Jan speaks warmly about life at the manor, saying she feels well looked after and completely content. She often shares how wonderful the staff are and says she has no problems at all. When reflecting on her life, Jan puts it simply: “I’ve been lucky to have the
friends and family I have.” And it’s clear she truly has.
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