Secret to long life? ‘Keep interested in everything’
The love of a good family, regular outings and a daily crossword offer the key to a long life, said Effie Gowan who turned 100 last week – with a very special birthday message in The Scotsman.
The great grandmother-of-eight who lives independently at home in Liberton was delighted to celebrate her 100th year with all of her nieces and nephews on Wednesday. And The Scotsman arranged for a happy birthday message to run alongside that day’s crossword.
The week-long celebrations have included the pensioner’s favourite past times; champagne at Prestonfield House, afternoon coffees at Braid Hills Golf Centre and, of course, the daily crossword.
“I’ve had a lovely celebration,” said Mrs Gowan. “I had all my nieces and nephews with me for a lovely day and have had neighbours in most days since.”
Mrs Gowan does seven of The Scotsman and Scotland on Sunday’s crosswords each week helped by her daughter Fay Hill, 68.
“I do crossword everyday, I also do sudoku and play scrabble,” said Mrs Gowan. “I can always find something to do.
“I might be 100 but I don’t feel it,” she added. “And my son in law says I don’t look it but he’s only trying to keep in with me.”
Long life runs in the family, Mrs Gowan’s elder sister Minnie passing away in 2014 aged 101.
Doting daughter Mrs Hill, works as a carer full time for her mother and said she is an “inspiration” to us all.
Spilling the secrets to a long and healthy life, Mrs Gowan said: "Have a good family, keep interested in everything and always find something to do.”