as I live and breathe

phrase2

1. •
   (old-fashioned) Used to declare the truth of a statement with emphasis.

   • Dear Ma'am, why will you chagrine yourself about a vile Man, that is not worth,—no, as I live and breathe,—not worth a single Sigh?— — 1760
2. •
   (old-fashioned) Used to express surprise at an experience one is witnessing.

   • Eh? What? Mercy alive! Hilda—Hilda, look here! Bab, as I live and breathe! — 1864