When Charlie and Lorna Abela first met, they didn’t in their wildest dreams imagine they’d still be together more than six decades later.
This month the couple will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with family and friends.
While it’s a remarkable achievement, Lorna said the beginning of the couple’s relationship was just like any other.
“We met socially though friends and started going out. We used to go to the Gisborne Hotel because every Saturday night they used to have sing-alongs.
“Charlie used to play the mouth organ and get up on stage. My sister sings, so at the beginning he was there with her as a friend.
“But then we met and he became mine.”
From there, the couple’s relationship progressed rapidly.
“We met in August 1957 and married in April of 1958. It didn’t take long, we knew we were in love and didn’t bother mucking around,” Charlie said.
“Then a year later in May 1959, we had our first child, which was closely followed by our second in May of 1960.
“Then continuing the quick progression, we had our third child 12 years later,” he joked.
Lorna said the couple has worked hard to make their relationship endure.
“Everyone fights. We have arguments, but two minutes later we’ve both forgotten about it,” Lorna said.
“It’s all about treating each other with respect and having patience.”
Lorna said she’s filled with pride by the family they have created.
“We’ve got three grandchildren and two great-granddaughters and it’s terrific to be able to spend time with them.”
