POULSBO — One centenarian walks five miles a day. One regularly plays cards. Another maintains a healthy sense of humor.

In fact, it was birthday girl Elsie Bradbury who had the most humorous advice Aug. 7 for those who want to live to be 100.

“It’s something that starts when you’re born — breathing in and out. Keep doing that until you’re 100,” she quipped. “And continue on past that.”

All told, Bradbury and four fellow centenarians at Brookdale Montclair in Poulsbo represent a combined 509 years of living. After she blew out the candles on her own birthday cake, she paused for photos with her fellow centenarians, who attended the party to welcome her to the club.

In addition to Bradbury, 100, the centenarians are Helen Largent, 104; Jean Sanderson, 103; Dan Wentzlaff, 102; and Neil Van Sickle, 100.

Bradbury’s late husband, Horace, retired from the U.S. Army as a colonel; he was a veteran of World War II, Korea and Vietnam, and during the world war earned two battlefield promotions. He later served as an adviser to the Vietnamese army.

“It was an active life,” she said of their 33 years of Army life.

She was widowed in 1990, but continued to live on her own in her large home in Lake City until she was 96. She said good genes play a big role in longevity, although an active life and taking care of yourself help.

Elsie Bradbury blows out the candles on her cake as Lee Sandstedt, executive director of Brookdale Montclair, assists, Aug. 7. Photo: Richard Walker

Elsie Bradbury and five generations of her family. Standing back from left, Janis Radtke, daughter; and Lindy Bretsen, granddaughter. Kneeling, Jennie Delaney, great-granddaughter. Standing at right, Dawn Solo, great-granddaughter. And great-great-grandsons, Carson, Jacob and Parker. Photo: Richard Walker