I’m a columnist based in Brisbane trying to be brutally honest when sharing my parenting highs and lows to help all mums and dads feel less alone.

Live Life Better: Tips from a 94-year-old

Live Life Better: Tips from a 94-year-old

Annabelle Chapple Grandma Wedding

This is a photo of my Granny, Betty Carter, marrying my Pop in Germany more than 60 years ago. She looks intensely chic in her tailored jacket, which she still fits into.

I love my Granny, not just as a family member but as a person.

She's 94 years old, has lived a fascinating life (watch here how she explains her job in the war) and is one of the most inspiring people I know.

Over the week we stayed with her I had the chance to to tap into her secrets to longevity; she's honestly ageing backwards, and here are a few things I observed:

To keep slim - eat a substantial breakfast (she likes her All Bran with pouring cream! - and salt on her porridge), a large lunch (think: roast), then a very simple dinner (salad & cold cuts).

To stay fit - keep doing things for yourself. The moment you give something up and people take over, fear creeps in (ie: can I still drive? Can I still cook? Can I still run?) - relevant to all ages.

To keep young - sleep in! She doesn't get moving until 9am really.

To stay sharp-minded - learn new crafts. Granny can upholster chairs, can make jewellery and fine cutlery after learning to be a silversmith, knows how to create stained glass - and is now even writing her memoirs!

What about you? What are your secret routines? Who inspires you?

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