As rare a feat as living to...

As rare a feat as living to the age of 100 years old is, Terry

Valanta surpasses our expectations of what the life of a 100-year-old

is like.

Most of us view old age with fear, as we feel it means we will be

feeble, forgetful and reliant on others to take care of us.

Although that is the case for some people, one look at this photo

of Terry toasting with a glass of brandy should give us all hope and

inspiration for our lives in the coming years. Not only was Terry

having a brandy at her 100th birthday party on Friday, she was

singing songs, slinging jokes and reminiscing on her younger days.

Terry also gave her advice for living a long life. She alluded to

a diet of lasagna, spaghetti sauce and homemade wines from

Massachusetts grapes and, the most important thing, a positive

outlook on life. As evidenced by her smile and 100 years to her life,

that may be some good advice.

-- Steve McCrank