Woodside observes 100 days, 100 years Woodside observes 100 days, 100 years (February 11, 2004)

By Andrea Gemmet

Almanac Staff Writer

When Woodside Elementary School students were asked to bring something representing the number 100 to observe the 100th day of the school year, second-grader Jennie Werner decided to bring something special -- her great-great-aunt, who is turning 100 on February 18.

Marie Anchou, a bright-eyed woman who speaks with a lilting French accent, charmed Jennie's classmates in Mary Blazensky's class last week. She shook hands all around, admired the "beautiful boys and girls," and exclaimed "Oo-la-la!" at the comfy chair she sat in.

She fielded questions from the curious 7- and 8-year-olds about what it was like to be so very old, and applauded enthusiastically when they serenaded her with a rousing, "cha-cha" version of "Happy Birthday."

Although she couldn't recall hearing about the sinking of the Titanic or having any hobbies, she did tell them that she traveled to the United States from France by boat and train, the typical method of the day.

Asked if she was excited to be turning 100, she replied: "Yes, it's exciting. It only comes once!"

E-mail a friend a link to this story.