The smile of a princess

Berna
Tea Tree Gardens Retirement Village resident Berna Yoerger moved into the village with her husband Leo 21 years ago and says that it’s “the best thing we’ve ever done”.
“When we first arrived, my husband was a keen table tennis player and he suggested that the residents committee consider buying a table,” Berna says.
It didn’t take long to persuade the committee, who bought not one but two tables that are still in use today.
“There’s always so much going on in the village – it helps you to stay young,” Berna says.
Berna and Leo also enjoyed travelling and living at Tea Tree Gardens meant they could lock up their unit and not worry about anything.
The pair spent three months in Europe touring throughout Britain, Italy, Austria and Switzerland.
“We had a wonderful holiday and spent some time in Florence, Sorrento, and Vienna,” Berna recalls.
“However, my husband said that as soon as we arrived in Scotland, I did not stop smiling.”
“My heart belonged to Scotland because my grandfather was born there and I wanted to trace my ancestry.”
“I was thrilled when the local historian in Aberdeen called me a ‘princess’ because my grandfather was a Scottish Earl.”
Sadly, Leo passed away 11 years ago and Berna says she is grateful for the many friendships she has made while living in the village community.
“I’ve met some very dear friends since moving here. I like to be around people so I keep busy by joining in the village activities such as the gardening group, book club, indoor bowls, card games and bus trips.”
“It’s very nice here. Come and have a look at Tea Tree Gardens – you’ll be very surprised!”