Elizabeth Arnold, whose captivating smile and twinkle in her eyes is contagious to staff and residents at Sacred Heart Senior Living by the Creek, Northampton, will be celebrating her 100th birthday Sept. 1.

Elizabeth said she never gave much thought to reaching this milestone birthday. She kept herself busy enjoying her family, gardening, sewing and cooking.

Television and radio were never interests for her. Instead, she focused on people, whether they pass in the hallway or dining room or meet during an activity.

Elizabeth chooses a simple meal of beef stew as one of her favorite foods.

Joining her for the birthday party Sept. 1 at the seniors facility, 602 E. 21st St., will be her two daughters, Roberta and her husband, Jim, and Catherine and her husband, Earl; a son, Thomas and his wife, Karen; 12 grandchildren and their spouses; and 17 great-grandchildren.

Elizabeth was born at home on the family farm in Williams Township. She was a 4-H leader for many years and helped young girls learn the tricks and tips in sewing, cooking and growing a garden.

One would find Elizabeth happily behind her sewing machine making anything from snowmobile suits and ballroom gowns to everyday clothing. She was a seamstress in Hess’s drapery department for many years.

While now unable to keep her vegetable garden and multiple flower beds, Elizabeth spends her time visiting with family, catching up on reading and coloring in the modern adult coloring books.