Norma Evans & Tommy Smith

When one thinks of the word “INSPIRATION” one name comes to mind….. Norma Evans. Norma who recently celebrated her “90th” Birthday is definitely an inspiration to all who know her.

In 1982 Norma and her husband Ken decided to make Sandycove their home. As Norma laughingly says “I have been here 26 years and haven’t decided if I am going to stay or not”.

Norma and her husband Ken settled into their home on Nettles cove and in no time met wonderful lifelong friends while playing cards and attending the dances. It comes as no surprise that Norma was in her glory performing in the Variety Club skits and whatever else was in the “happening” in Sandycove. When Ken passed away, Norma kept her spirits high, going to the community functions with her friends.

Tommy Smith moved into Sandycove Acres in 1989 with his wife who unfortunately passed away just weeks within moving into the park. Tom sold his original Sandycove home and bought another in the park not wanting to leave the friendly community. It was in 1995, playing euchre with her friends that Norma met and befriended Tommy Smith.. her “Boy Toy” as she so fondly calls him.

Norma eventually sold her home and moved in with Tommy and they have maintained a loving relationship ever since.This community minded couple, make the most of their lives here in Sandycove Acres. Tommy is kept busy playing golf 3 days a week in the summer and curling 3 days a week in the winter months as well as shooting some pool and playing cards.

Norma was one of the first individuals to start up the Veterans Club in Sandycove. She is still into volunteering her time baking goodies and helping out with many groups in the park. After 17 years, both Tom and Norma have a monthly date playing cards with their friends.

Tom and Norma can been seen “cutting the rug” so to speak at all dances, as they go to all of the events in the three recreation halls. They insist that it is important to support all three halls as they know first hand the amount of work that is involved in running a committee. Norma has been in committees for the Veterans, Hub and the Wheel.

Norma was recently asked by a younger resident how she has kept her health and stamina for so many years. Her reply is “keep active and get out and enjoy yourself with the good people of Sandycove. A glass of wine now and then doesn’t hurt either!"

They both agree that it’s good to see the younger generation moving into the park bringing in new ideas and change. “Change is always good no one wants it to remain the same for 20 years.” Both agree, they would not live anywhere else but Sandycove Acres.

With friendly people like Tommy Smith and Norma Evans, there is no better place to be than Sandycove Acres.

Oh yes, by the way, Norma has the hall booked for her 100th in 10 years!