CANADA: Love, laughter keys to longevity

Christina (Tenie) Nauffts to celebrate her 100th birthday on Friday By Monique Chiasson TRURO, Colchester County, Nova Scotia (The Truro Daily News), February 19, 2008: Christina (Tenie) Nauffts has been taking trips down memory lane as she approaches her 100th birthday this week. Friday, February 22 marks the big day for the Cedarstone Enhanced Care resident. And as the 37-year resident of Truro told the Truro Daily News, there have been some interesting moments in her life. “I quit school when I was still young because my mom lost two children. I always wanted to be a teacher but I would have rather stayed with mom than have a career,” she recalled. Tenie also looked after her brother for many years after he was in an accident. She also became a foster mother, even though she never married or had children of her own. “I was always helping somebody,” Tenie said. Don’t be fooled, though. As a young woman, Tenie got into some mischief. “I loved to dance. I’d sneak out the window to go to a dance. I was supposed to be in bed so I’d get in back through the window,” she remembered. She also recalls some other moments that haven’t faded over time. “Inventions ... TV ... I remember thinking, ‘how could they (create) such a thing?’ I liked watching Don Messer.” She also recalls seeing Elvis on television, and not being impressed. “The first time I saw Elvis I didn’t think much of him – those tight pants!” While her 100th birthday approaches, there are simple things in life Tenie appreciates. Her family, faith and health are examples. Although her sight and hearing are failing, Tenie’s memory and wit are sharp. “I’m proud to be a Canadian, Catholic ... and a Cape Bretoner,” she said, adding her advice on how to achieve a long life is quite simple. “Don’t smoke or drink,” she said. “It’s important (to be) helping people, being kind and laughing.” An open house has been planned to celebrate Tenie’s milestone on Friday. Well-wishers can gather at Cedarstone on Young Street between 1 and 4 p.m. © The Daily News