Freda Johnston celebrated her 100th birthday on April 6th, 2023. Or was it April 7th?
All her life, Freda’s birthday was the 7th of April, and she celebrated on this day for over 60 years. But when Freda requested a replacement passport in her 60s, she discovered her birth certificate recorded her date of birth as April 6th! From then on, Freda changed the day she celebrated her birthday.
You don’t turn 100 every day, so the special occasion was celebrated with a piano-themed cake, family, and friends at her home Radius Lexham Park, Tauranga. On this special day, Freda offered some advice from her 100 years of experience. When asked what one piece of advice she would give to young people today, Freda replied, “just exercise, eat well and sleep well.”
Her proudest moments were “learning the piano, sitting my exams and teaching others. I am also proud of learning to paint using watercolours, oils and charcoal.” Freda’s answers highlight the joy that can be brought by exploring creative pursuits and sleeping well. Freda also received a card from the King.
