Writer makes another centenarian friend, all the while pondering a wondrous trend

I have often wondered whether longevity is an elixir for those who love life.

Lately I have found myself pondering centenarians, how they give us joy for today and hope for the future. I have been blessed to be befriended by many centenarians in my beloved Fallbrook.

Come now, dear reader, as I introduce you to some and we together may we marvel over the mystery and magic of living to 100 and beyond.

My first friend to stretch her life well past 100 was cantankerous Betty Gilby, who earned a master's degree in nutrition and eventually joined the Army and came under enemy fire in North Africa a...