I live in California. My grandmother lives 5,000 miles away in Scotland, but the distance between us never felt that far. I’m lucky that as I grew up, I got to spend so much time with her. We vacationed in the UK often, and she loved visiting the US, especially San Francisco, where her favorite things are spending time with her family, enjoying clam chowder in a bread bowl, and soaking up the California sunshine.
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few things from my grandmother, who is now 97. I make a decent Scotch Broth, appreciate the superior quality of Marks & Spencer’s products, and never forget to pack a sandwich for the road when I’m traveling long distances. And she’s also taught me some lifestyle habits over the years to be healthier and happier in my everyday life.
She chooses quality over quantity
In a world where many buy in bulk, my grandmother prefers just one freshly baked roll. At the bakery in Kilmacolm, the small Scottish village where she lived for many years, the baker knew that if she bought more than one, she was having company.
It’s easy to stock up on rolls at Costco — they’re affordable and tasty — but there’s something to be said for popping into your local bakery, buying a still-warm single round, and taking it home to enjoy with a slab of butter and a cup of tea. It’s hard to beat.
And the quality-over-quantity mindset applies to more than just food. My grandmother will always prefer one nice wool cardigan over a few poorly made ones, one beautiful scarf over a couple of fashion-forward options, and a beautiful winter coat that can actually handle a Scottish winter instead of several cheaper alternatives. But she rarely pays full price — her secret superpower is finding a good sale.
She finds small ways to stay fit
In San Francisco, it’s sometimes easier to walk than drive. When I have the choice, I lace up my sneakers and hit the pavement — not as a workout, but as a fun way to stay active while running errands.
My grandmother never stepped foot on a treadmill or used a fitness tracker. She didn’t own a car and always relied on buses and her own two feet. Over the years, walking has been part of her daily routine, and she’s stronger for it. Unlike my grandmother, I do track my steps, and I’m sometimes surprised by how small choices add up and help me close my movement rings.
I’ve watched her enjoy life’s little treats, without guilt
There are so many tasty things to enjoy in life, but sometimes the guilt of indulging strips the fun out of it. My grandmother loves a sweet after dinner, a biscuit with her tea, and a delicious fish and chip supper — truly enjoying what she eats makes her happy, as it should.
As for me, I love scones, cheese pizza, and a second glass of wine. Sometimes, I do feel guilty when my sugar intake outweighs my vegetables, but I try not to beat myself up about it. We’ve all heard that moderation is key — and it is — but it’s also important to enjoy life without guilt.
My grandmother has stayed current
My grandmother has always been sharp, well into her 90s. One reason might be that until recently, she read the newspaper every day. She stayed engaged with the world around her, keeping up to date on current events — especially the football scores.
These days, I read more articles online than I do in print, although it is nice to take a break from screens once in a while. My grandmother likes to know what’s going on around her. I plan to follow her lead and stay curious and mentally fit by reading every day, in print and online.
Courtesy of Nicole Findlay
She’s taught me to lean into what makes you happy
My grandmother says everyone has a vice, and she admits hers is shopping. But shopping makes her happy, and she doesn’t deprive herself of it. She’s always been one of the best-dressed women in the room, especially on special occasions when she dons her cool sparkly tops.
I’m not quite sure what that thing is for me. I’m trying to narrow it down. But when I do, I plan to lean in and enjoy what makes me happy.
I think about my grandmother all the time, especially when I pop over to the bakery for a single roll. The habits I’m stealing from her are simple, but I truly believe these small choices will come with big rewards, at least for me.