Words of advice on living a happy life from 100-year-old

“You’ve got to think of the lucky things. Be grateful for the little things and be happy.”

Those are the pearls of wisdom from Dot Day, as she celebrates her 100^th birthday this week.

“I think about how lucky I am all the time,” she said amid a rollicking week of celebrations.

“I am so lucky to be so well at 100!”

Dot was surrounded by loved ones this week, with family from Sydney, Canberra, South Australia and even Los Angeles travelling to be by her side as she reached the century milestone.

“I am so happy that everyone could be with me to celebrate,” she said.

“We had a party this past weekend. The sun shone, and everyone was there—family, friends, and neighbours. Everyone made such an effort to be there, it was just amazing.”

Dot was born in 1924 in Port Pirie, a small fishing port. During WWII, she was in the army in Albury when she met who the women referred to as “the handsome boy in Shed 25.”

Alfred Day, known as Alby, had his first dance with Dot that night and married her the following year.

The couple moved to Canberra, where Dot was immediately taken with all the trees, especially after the sulphur pollution of Port Pirie.

Dot said the biggest change she has seen over the years was the introduction of computers.

“I don’t have a computer, but I love it when my son, Anthony, shows me Facebook,” she said.

“I read the paper daily to get news and watch TV too.”

Dot attends Mass at St Vincent’s Parish in Aranda every Sunday and prays for her family daily.

“Prayer has gotten me through when things aren’t so good,” she said.

“Prayer gives me hope and strength.”

Daughter Michelle said it was incredible to celebrate 100 years with Dot.

“It is amazing to see her in such good health for her age, with an awe-inspiring sense of gratitude that is a gift for everyone around her,” she said.

“I have always enjoyed Dot’s sense of adventure and this week celebrating Dot has been a great ride.”

Michelle said her mum’s huge heart made everyone around her feel special and loved.

“Her gratitude for her family and everything in her life is amazing, and I especially love her sense of humour,” she added.

“I admire my mum’s faith – it has given her such strength throughout her life, and it’s an inspiration to everyone around her, especially me when I am seeking a stronger connection.”

St Vincent’s parishioners gathered to attend Mass on Monday, 15 July, to celebrate Dot’s birthday, and a morning tea will be held this Sunday.

• The community is invited to Morning Tea following the 10am Mass at St Vincent’s Church, Aranda, on Sunday, 21 July 2024, in the Orana Centre to celebrate Dot’s 100^th