Parkersburg resident Mabel Paulus got an early birthday wish from Governor Joe Manchin and Parkersburg Mayor Bob Newell Sunday.

Paulus' birthday is Tuesday, Jan. 6. When WTAP asked if she will be 100 years old she said "Yes, that's what they tell me."

It's also hard for her only child, Janet Roberts, to believe.

"We have never remarked on the fact that she's been getting older every year because she's always been beautiful to look at and very active and fun," said Roberts.

Paulus said her secret to a long life is "I don't know, just taking a day at a time and look at the bright side and be positive all the time."

Her advice has worked. "She's very sharp mentally and she keeps us sharp because she asks us questions about the news and what's going on in the world so we just scurry to keep up with her," said Roberts.

Paulus mainly needs a wheel chair for long distances and still takes of herself and her home. "By the time I do my cooking and everything I'm busy," Paulus said.

Her husband passed away about 15 years ago but she has lived to be with their four grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

"Very strong influence and set a wonderful pattern for the rest of our family. All four children are still married to the people they started out with because my mother and father were very close," said Roberts.

Her closeness with her family and the community was apparent in the numbers that turned out to let her know how much she means to them.

Paulus' family came in from out of town to celebrate her birthday at her church- the First Presbyterian Church of Parkersburg.