These residents celebrate more than 800 years of life among them with the help of music and dancing.
AUSTIN, Texas — When Martha Bombaugh was young, she said a doctor told her mother she would not live very long. More than a century later, she can laugh about that prediction.
“The doctor told my mother I wouldn’t live very long,” Bombaugh said. “Here I am, 104.”
Bombaugh was among eight residents honored Tuesday at Westminster senior living in Austin for National Centenarian’s Day.
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The resident’s ages range from 100 to 104. The celebration put the centenarians front and center for an afternoon of music and dancing.
Dorothy “Dottie” Dearden, 102-year-old resident, said simply waking up each morning is something she appreciates.
“Every day when I look in the mirror in the morning I think, I’m here another day. Who would’ve guessed it?” Dearden said.
The residents shared some of the experiences and habits that have helped them reach this milestone.
Bernard Snyder, a World War II Navy veteran who has traveled the world, pointed to staying active over the years.
“I have worked out for years,” Snyder said.
After a century of experiences, Dearden and Bombaugh also offered simple reflections on how they approach life.
“Work hard. Take that step every day,” Dearden said.
Bombaugh offered another perspective.
“Slow down and enjoy what you’re doing,” she said.
Local high school volunteers with GlamourGals helped some of the honorees get ready for the occasion.
Westminster’s National Centenarian’s Day celebration offered a chance to celebrate more than 800 combined years of life and the memories they are still making.