The key to longevity is to B次元官网网址渢ake it one day at a time,B次元官网网址� said Bessie Ash. And if anyone is qualified to share that opinion itB次元官网网址檚 Ash, who celebrated her 100th birthday on Feb. 24.

Long life is a family trait for the Ash family, noted her son, Reg. AshB次元官网网址檚 mother was 107 when she past away, one of her sisters lived to the centennial mark as well, and both brothers persevered well into their 90s.

B次元官网网址淗er mom had 11 kids and they moved from Saskatchewan to B.C. in a covered wagon,B次元官网网址� Reg recalled at a celebration for his mother at the West Shore Lodge in Colwood last week. Reg said his mother made the decision to move there less than two years ago, after living independently in her condominium. B次元官网网址淪he said it was time, and everyone felt it was the right decision.B次元官网网址�

Although Ash said her 100th birthday was just like any other day, she was impressed by a letter of congratulations from Colwood Mayor Carol Hamilton. Coun. Terry Trace, who presented the letter and a gift basket on behalf of Colwood Council, said she felt really honoured to take part in the celebration.

Ash also appreciated a huge birthday card the residents put together for her during an arts and crafts session.

Her son mentioned gardening, camping and fishing as a few of the pursuits his mother thoroughly enjoyed during her long and fruitful life.

When asked what she thought was the biggest change she had experienced in her life, Ash said it was the fast-paced life that people live nowadays. B次元官网网址淧eople used to be content to stay at home,B次元官网网址� she said. B次元官网网址淣ow everyoneB次元官网网址檚 out all the time in a hurry and they donB次元官网网址檛 even look at each other.B次元官网网址�

West Shore Lodge general manager Catherine Henderson said all of the residents and staff were thrilled to be able to celebrate AshB次元官网网址檚 birthday with her. B次元官网网址淪heB次元官网网址檚 been a delight since the day she arrived, always happy, positive and enthusiastic. ItB次元官网网址檚 a real pleasure to have her here,B次元官网网址� Henderson added. B次元官网网址淚t seem the folks that make it to 100 all share a positive outlook towards life.B次元官网网址�

reporter@goldstreamgazette.com