Ana Tkavc is a model at 103 years old, and Vida Medvešček is close to 100.

In Piran, two elderly residents celebrated their birthdays with special attention, Ana Tkavc turned 103 years old, while Vida Medvešček approached her century mark. The occasion was marked by gatherings at the center for seniors, where both women were honored by staff and local officials. Director Alenka Terbovc of the center expressed her appreciation for the residents, wishing them many pleasant days, health, family time, and goodwill. Piran’s mayor, Andrej Korenika, also extended his congratulations, noting that both women hailed from the Piran municipality. He reminisced about his childhood memories with his grandmothers, recalling how one would take him around the village in a cart and another would drive him with a plow. He wished the women continued joy, laughter, and cherished moments with loved ones, joking that he hoped to be invited to Vida Medvešček’s 100th birthday celebration the following year. The concept of longevity was discussed during the festivities, with Ana Tkavc offering her perspective on living long. She described work as essential to a fulfilling life. “It is necessary to work. Hard work strengthens a person. Without work, I could not have lived,” she stated. Throughout her life, she engaged in numerous activities such as cooking, baking, gardening, sewing, and knitting. Her diet remained simple and balanced, emphasizing vegetables over sweets. She maintained a routine even after retiring, continuing to knit, sew, cook, and prepare jams herself. Despite retirement, she remained active, climbing Mount Triglav despite her declining eyesight. “Now I have too much time because I can’t see well anymore,” she lamented. For Ana Tkavc, aging has brought challenges, particularly related to vision loss. She explained that while she manages independently, everything must be in its place for her to find things easily. Each morning, she tidies up, exercises, walks along the corridor, and visits for massages. She enjoys fresh air, often keeping windows open even in winter. Although she lives comfortably in her own room with access to television and radio, she misses companionship. “I don’t recognize faces, nor do I recognize people, even though I meet them often. If I don’t recognize someone, I can’t talk to them,” she explained. “This is sad, life has become more lonely.” Vida Medvešček, who is nearly 100 years old, shared her own reflections on growing older. She recalled her youth spent as a student at a convent school, traveling past Tolmin to the water. She remembered singing Slovenian folk songs, which remain vivid in her memory. One particular moment stood out: returning home one day after being mistreated, she sat near the oven, warmed herself, and dried off. During the celebrations, the Primorski gušti band joined in, performing familiar songs alongside the residents. The festivities concluded with cake cutting, marking a joyful yet poignant milestone for both women.