four generations

by Linda Hanna

“No, you’re NOT! A great grandmother? I never even knew any of my great grandparents, and even my grandmother didn’t look as young as you!”

Helen, pictured here on the bottom, at age 82, attracts many such comments. And no one believes daughter Linda, above Mom (in pink), is 60. People mistake Linda and her daughter, Tanya, to be sisters. Brynn, 13, is Tanya’s daughter. So, yes, there are 4 generations represented here!

What’s their secret? Well, it’s really no secret at all. They do what all the health articles we’ve all read recommend - eat well, exercise, socialize, etc. But in addition to this, and obviously the genes they share, there must be something else. And no, it’s not plastic surgery!

When asked what they feel they have in common that may be contributing factors, here’s what we found. They all have very positive states of mind. Through life’s normal ups and downs, they have maintained an optimistic outlook and worked hard with what they have, finding creative ways to deal with adversity. They also have/had interesting careers and many other interests to pursue. Long after retirement, Helen plays the piano at Belhurst Castle and Geneva-On-The-Lake, paints, writes, and enjoys interior decorating. Linda, a retired professional writer, is studying French, Russian, and piano. She works out at Curves and in her home exercise room. She skates, skis, does volunteer work, enjoys spending time with 6 grandchildren, and has a busy social life. Tanya owns her own business, creating historic wax seals. She walks or skis regularly with friends in her beautiful Naples, NY, surroundings and is active in her community. You’ll never catch her home alone, or off the phone! But with all these goings-on, they share a deep spirituality and take time to renew their energies.

So, get out there and enjoy life. Do all the basics, but be sure to pursue your interests - take time to refuel - and HAVE FUN! It pays!