In a celebration filled with love and nostalgia, Thelma Owen marked an extraordinary milestone this past weekend, ringing in her 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends.
A seasoned seamstress and entrepreneur Owen attributes her longevity to a healthy lifestyle, a positive attitude, and the love of her family.
“I feel very blessed to have reached this age,” Pieterse expressed.
“My body is failing me with arthritis in my knees, but I am lucky my mind is still okay. My family is very proud to have me reach 100, and they have all rallied around me at this time. I appreciate it very much the celebration party they had for me.”
The celebration was not just any ordinary gathering but a heartfelt reunion that brought together loved ones from far and wide.
One highlight of the day stemmed from her best friend, a bond that has lasted nearly 70 years, who journeyed all the way from England to celebrate this significant occasion with her.
“Having my family and friends around me, especially those from overseas, truly made the day special,” Owen said.
“I received beautiful flowers and heartfelt messages from abroad, which made me feel cherished.”
When asked about the key to her long and healthy life, her answer was refreshingly simple.
“I have eaten fresh vegetables from my garden for most of my life, enjoyed a brandy and ginger ale every evening, and never used a microwave or ate processed foods. Definitely, no MSG either,” she shared, nodding in satisfaction.
Reflecting on her journey, Owen spoke of her pride in raising seven wonderful children, stating: “I am proud of my children. They have all turned out well.” Besides parenting, her ventures in business included running a drapery and video shop and even crafting a few wedding gowns during her career.
Offering wisdom to the next generation, she advised: “Live a clean and healthy life, respect your elders, listen more and talk less, and try not to have negatives in your life; always strive to be positive.”
Her daughter, Janet Jones, shared enthusiasm about the well-organised garden luncheon, which hosted around 46 guests to honour their matriarch.
“All the brothers and sisters and grandchildren gathered together to give Mom and Gran a lovely celebration,” she recounted. “It was wonderfully successful, with most of her children joining in. Although two siblings couldn’t attend, they participated virtually through WhatsApp.”
Jones emphasised how united they felt, thanks to technology that bridged the gaps between family members in different countries, including a sister in Switzerland and a brother in Canada, as well as Owen’s baby sister in Australia.
“What I love most about my mom is how she instilled in us the importance of eating a colourful array of fresh fruit and vegetables,” Jones shared, highlighting a vital lesson from their childhood.
“She always said we should get a decent education, do our best at school, and respect other people.”
As Owen reflects on her century-long journey, her commitment to health and family and her positive outlook serve as inspiration. With a robust life filled with meaningful connections, she is a testament to the power of love and healthy living.
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za