Turning 105, Pete Petree has 13 rules to live by

As he celebrates his 105th birthday on Thursday, Pete Petree of Marietta has added to his "recipe for a long, healthy and pleasing life."

At the age of 103, he had 12 rules to live by. Today, he has 13 rules.

"This is one I like very much, and I've practiced it all of my life," Pete told 11Alive's Jennifer Leslie. "Be kind to animals. They have feelings, and they depend entirely on you."

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Pete's wonderful life started in 1913. He wasn't born with much but always worked hard.

"You gotta keep trying. I wish everybody would do that," he said.

He was married for 63 years before his wife Ladelle passed away in 1997. He has four children, 13 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren.

He also has that list of 13 rules to live by.

"My favorite is number one: keep your mind and body busy all of your waking hours," Pete explained.

Pete does crosswords puzzles and just got a stationary bike for exercise.

"I've used it every single day since I got it," he added.

Rule number 8 is "avoid excessive television time and too much sitting."

Pete can hardly sit still and spends time just about every day in his workshop, where he makes beautiful linen chests and stools. He doesn't drive anymore but still lives on his own, has a 94-year-old girlfriend and cherishes his independence.

"I didn't want to depend on the government or any member of my family," he said. "I worked hard toward that. I think so far, at 105, I've been fairly successful."

Here is Pete's full list: "13 Ways To Lead a Long, Healthy & Pleasing Life"

1. Keep your mind and body busy every day!
2. Get eight hours of sleep every night!
3. Avoid stress! Ask yourself the question, "What could be the possible results from what I propose to do?" If your answer is not good, don't do it!
4. Avoid animal fat. Eat balanced meals. Avoid deep fried and fatty foods.
5. Be moderate with almost everything.
6. Do not expect God to do everything for you. God gives help to those who first help themselves.
7. Be optimistic! Being pessimistic is a waste of time. You will be a real bore, and it will surely shorten your lifespan.
8. Avoid excessive television time and too much sitting.
9. Walk as much as possible. Use stairs rather than elevators.
10. Never brood or pout. Discuss - Do not argue!
11. Use your head as well as your heart on important issues. Especially with children.
12. Meet your obligations promptly. Do not make more obligations than you can afford. Be independent! Stand on your own two feet. Do not depend on family, friends, or government.
13. Be kind and considerate to animals. They have feelings and depend entirely on you.

Pete keeps his rules on notecards that he shares with others wherever he goes.