Good Morning!
I have a new resident in the office right now telling me how she told her kids about the ease and convenience of our grocery shopping trip. "All I had to do was pick out and pay for the groceries, everything else was done for me. Wait 'till I tell you the best part...we got back to the house...everyone just went up to their apartments so I did the same...pretty soon a knock came to the door...where would you like these"? Brian said. Brian told her "We do all of this but what we don't do is eat the groceries". haha
The resident, who prefers not to be named, said "I jumped off the bus, but it never dawned on me where I was going to meet the bus or how much time I had...like a kid in school I went back to where they left me off..He helps you into the bus... I never thought I would get to this point in life (she's 88) where I would get to...
.....then we were interrupted by Maggie May showing signs of a tummy ache. It's been a tough week for a thunderstorm anxiety problemed dog! I remember we had a resident who used to tranqualize his dog during thunderstorms, after he would crawl in the bathtub. It was sad!
I've had Maggie here all week due to her thunderstorm anxiety. I gave her Rescue Remedy, a natural supposed cure, for the first time ever yesterday, but today her stomach is bothering her....hmmmnnnn. If you don't know who Maggie May is, just page up. Her picture is on the blog about the Hartford fire and book group we have here at The Canterbury,
Funny, (I realize I'm on a complete tangent about the dog now) as I was soothing her I realized she could've eaten all kinds of things yesterday. Gladys, our resident who tends the gardens (and former Simsbury cop) walked Maggie over to the nursing home down the street where her husband Don (also former Simsbury cop- Captain I think) is recuperating. If I know Gretchen (who is also recuperating there and called to say how nice it was to see Maggie), she found something to feed her! Maybe Maggie had too much people food yesterday!
Then there was the "beggin strip" Brian brought in for her yesterday...she has NEVER had one of those either....funny! Maggie May be paying for the fun day she had here with us yesterday!
Well- I got off on a tangent. The lady who I mentioned moved here recently is so kind and upbeat- we are lucky to have her. She took care of her husband who had a stroke at about 55 years old until he was about 75 years old. She promised him he would never have to go to a nursing home and she kept that promise. I get to be witness to fabulous marriages (and promises) here...the likes of which are harder to find in the busy world we live in today,
This lady waited six years to move here, not wanting to leave her home. She seems glad she's here now, and I'm so happy to get to know her- she is LOVELY! I want to say more about her but she'd rather stay under the radar for now so I will sign off, wishing you a wonderful weekend and I appreciate you listening and taking the time to get to know Canterbury!
Best Wishes!
Emily
Friday, May 20, 2011
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Losses and gains
Hi folks! -
As the van pulls out for grocery shopping I'm thinking about the week ahead, and reflecting on losses, and remembering they come with gains.
We have six people moving in this month!!!!! Some have lost the desire to take care of a big house and and some their desire to drive. Several lost a spouse. All are going to gain new skills and friendships as they spend time in our community. There will be choices, to rent or purchase, to dine or eat in, to attend activities or not, take the van to West Hartford center and window shop or stay home. The choices here are endless.
Working here allows me the joy of seeing new friendships blossom, pretty much from day one, where losses create comaraderie and bring an instant bond.
Two friends of mine just attended funerals; one lost a sister, the other an aunt and Godmother. We attended a memorial service for a former resident, 104 years young at the time of her passing. "She was generous with her love" describes her perfectly.
When we have to say goodbye, for whatever reason, it is helpful to look at what is in front of that open door; with hope and faith that things are happening as they should and for the best. We have all heard the phrase "brighter days ahead", or "you've got to take the good with the bad", and "without rain there'd be no rainbows" (oh by the way I need to complain about people complaining about the rain!!!!- laugh!).
That's what moving on entails; regret, sadness, and sometimes tears; but also hope for a better future.
I love telling my friends, when they are having relationship difficulties, "rejection is God's protection".
So today, I have losses and gains on my mind. If anyone cares to chime in please do. If you have questions about the gains of moving to easy retirement living please contact me at canterburyretirement@yahoo.com and put "easy living" in the subject line.
Thanks for stopping by everyone! Have a great day. I'll see you when the flowers are popping out because of all the rain we are having!
Big HUGS, Emily
Well I see people who were isolated and bored become Wii bowling experts.
{whoa- someone just called me "delightful"- that felt good!!!}
As the van pulls out for grocery shopping I'm thinking about the week ahead, and reflecting on losses, and remembering they come with gains.
We have six people moving in this month!!!!! Some have lost the desire to take care of a big house and and some their desire to drive. Several lost a spouse. All are going to gain new skills and friendships as they spend time in our community. There will be choices, to rent or purchase, to dine or eat in, to attend activities or not, take the van to West Hartford center and window shop or stay home. The choices here are endless.
Working here allows me the joy of seeing new friendships blossom, pretty much from day one, where losses create comaraderie and bring an instant bond.
Two friends of mine just attended funerals; one lost a sister, the other an aunt and Godmother. We attended a memorial service for a former resident, 104 years young at the time of her passing. "She was generous with her love" describes her perfectly.
When we have to say goodbye, for whatever reason, it is helpful to look at what is in front of that open door; with hope and faith that things are happening as they should and for the best. We have all heard the phrase "brighter days ahead", or "you've got to take the good with the bad", and "without rain there'd be no rainbows" (oh by the way I need to complain about people complaining about the rain!!!!- laugh!).
That's what moving on entails; regret, sadness, and sometimes tears; but also hope for a better future.
I love telling my friends, when they are having relationship difficulties, "rejection is God's protection".
So today, I have losses and gains on my mind. If anyone cares to chime in please do. If you have questions about the gains of moving to easy retirement living please contact me at canterburyretirement@yahoo.com and put "easy living" in the subject line.
Thanks for stopping by everyone! Have a great day. I'll see you when the flowers are popping out because of all the rain we are having!
Big HUGS, Emily
Well I see people who were isolated and bored become Wii bowling experts.
{whoa- someone just called me "delightful"- that felt good!!!}
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The Hartford Fire
Good Morning Everyone:
Ed is here again, talking while I'm trying to blog (laugh). "You are not writing that- I am not giving you permission to put that in the blog. Are you really writing that stuff? OK I'll finish it- Happy Birthday {belated} Emily- put that in the blog" he spouted. He is practically a professional teaser so I can not resist.
Folks, I woke up this morning to the greatest bird singing in answer, over and over, to another bird. I so wanted to get up and record it; knowing that one of you is a bird watcher and could tell me what this bird looks like. After a beautiful evening (minus the Sabres hockey team falling out of the playoffs) it was a lovely morning too. Our grounds are bursting with flowers and glowing green grass.
Please, if you are reading this, find the button to press to become a "follower of this blog"! I think it'll be more fun somehow seeing who all of you are. The bosses say this is a popular blog; something about where it pops up in the search engine tells them that many people are reading it.
Don't be shy :D Chime in. All I ask is that we keep it positive :D There's enough negativity in the world. Gossip and criticism may go elsewhere, but not at or around here! That's part of what makes The Canterbury so special.
I am saying keep it positive, but I have something serious to share with you now. I warn, some of you may not want to read the rest of todays blog.
I have often said one benefit to working with folks "over 55" is the wonderful stories I get to hear. The recollection of events, especially the war stories I've heard, would embarrass any Hollywood writer.
Yesterday, during our book group, Marna (who I mentioned yesterday) brought a personal article relaying events about the Hartford circus fire. I share it with you, again with a warning. It is a tragic tale, as well as a survival story.
Imagine that- the whole family was gone...and he wanted to get tickets with the dean but they were all sold out. Also- to find the article on the 60th anniversary of the fire....wow!
Mrs. O'Brien, a prior resident of our sister retirement home, Delamere Woods, had sons who were at the circus that day and "scampered out" according to John, a Realtor that's worked with us for years. Please, if you have anything to share do not hesitate. Thanks for joining me today :). Time to change the subject, although it is difficult to transition from such a story.
Just recently John helped six people who are preparing to move to Canterbury just this month! We are bustling!, busy! and popular! Hurray.
Yesterday, while our book group discussed Water For Elephants, the novel that instigated our discussion of the Hartford circus fire, and the movie our residents are taking the van to see today, I had our (hard wired) smoke detectors outside the elevator changed. This was a $1,500. upgrade to our state-of- the art fire system here at Canterbury. 24/7 someone is always in the building to personally respond to emergencies!
Here are pictures of our book group and then TJ, the gentleman from Total Protection Security Systems LLC, who installed the new smoke detectors. My dog Maggie May visiting was there also!
If you have memories of the Hartford Fire, a family pet (remember, pets are allowed here) or if you want to share anything, I cordially invite you to do so!
Take Good Care! It has been a pleasure :D
Emily
PS: One last picture... I took it this morning...a good way to end...
Ed is here again, talking while I'm trying to blog (laugh). "You are not writing that- I am not giving you permission to put that in the blog. Are you really writing that stuff? OK I'll finish it- Happy Birthday {belated} Emily- put that in the blog" he spouted. He is practically a professional teaser so I can not resist.
Folks, I woke up this morning to the greatest bird singing in answer, over and over, to another bird. I so wanted to get up and record it; knowing that one of you is a bird watcher and could tell me what this bird looks like. After a beautiful evening (minus the Sabres hockey team falling out of the playoffs) it was a lovely morning too. Our grounds are bursting with flowers and glowing green grass.
Please, if you are reading this, find the button to press to become a "follower of this blog"! I think it'll be more fun somehow seeing who all of you are. The bosses say this is a popular blog; something about where it pops up in the search engine tells them that many people are reading it.
Don't be shy :D Chime in. All I ask is that we keep it positive :D There's enough negativity in the world. Gossip and criticism may go elsewhere, but not at or around here! That's part of what makes The Canterbury so special.
I am saying keep it positive, but I have something serious to share with you now. I warn, some of you may not want to read the rest of todays blog.
I have often said one benefit to working with folks "over 55" is the wonderful stories I get to hear. The recollection of events, especially the war stories I've heard, would embarrass any Hollywood writer.
Yesterday, during our book group, Marna (who I mentioned yesterday) brought a personal article relaying events about the Hartford circus fire. I share it with you, again with a warning. It is a tragic tale, as well as a survival story.
Imagine that- the whole family was gone...and he wanted to get tickets with the dean but they were all sold out. Also- to find the article on the 60th anniversary of the fire....wow!
Mrs. O'Brien, a prior resident of our sister retirement home, Delamere Woods, had sons who were at the circus that day and "scampered out" according to John, a Realtor that's worked with us for years. Please, if you have anything to share do not hesitate. Thanks for joining me today :). Time to change the subject, although it is difficult to transition from such a story.
Just recently John helped six people who are preparing to move to Canterbury just this month! We are bustling!, busy! and popular! Hurray.
Yesterday, while our book group discussed Water For Elephants, the novel that instigated our discussion of the Hartford circus fire, and the movie our residents are taking the van to see today, I had our (hard wired) smoke detectors outside the elevator changed. This was a $1,500. upgrade to our state-of- the art fire system here at Canterbury. 24/7 someone is always in the building to personally respond to emergencies!
Here are pictures of our book group and then TJ, the gentleman from Total Protection Security Systems LLC, who installed the new smoke detectors. My dog Maggie May visiting was there also!
Barbara recounts her personal experience when the circus came to town. She has a family who rented an upstairs apartment from her dad. They were part of the "freak show" and it was disturbing to talk about it. Our book group members form lasting bonds getting to know each other in this personal way.
Linda ponders what she is hearing.
Maggie May enjoys lively discussion.
Pets are allowed at The Canterbury.
Barbara also runs a daily exercise program for canterbury residents. when she had knee surgery she was quick to heal, as her Physical Therapist asked her to do exercises she was already used to doing every day!
We follow a list of questions during our book group.
T.J. from the fire systems company- his dad has trained him well.
Serendipitous the fire system upgrades are occurring as we discuss the book and the hartford circus fire.
Take Good Care! It has been a pleasure :D
Emily
PS: One last picture... I took it this morning...a good way to end...
P.S.S. It feels remiss not to remember our soldiers with gratitude.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
terrific Tuesday
Hi Everyone!
There's lots going on at The Canterbury!
Come on Over! We have fresh portugese rolls straight from the bakery this morning to feast on while you wait for Rose, our nurse, to check your blood pressure.
Today residents are taking the van to their doctor's appointments.
Jim in Maintenance is putting some patio chairs outside and the housekeeping department is opening windows to let the fresh air in.
Our book group is discussing Water for Elephants today, and it is Wii and chair exercises in the lounge after that.
Here's a photo of one of our talented residents, Marna. Is there anything this woman can not do? She sent her brother a picture she painted:
Hope those of you who celebrate enjoyed the holidays, and we hope to see you soon. If you can't stop by, trying checking out our website at http://www.thecanterburyretirement.com/
Take care! Emily
There's lots going on at The Canterbury!
Come on Over! We have fresh portugese rolls straight from the bakery this morning to feast on while you wait for Rose, our nurse, to check your blood pressure.
Today residents are taking the van to their doctor's appointments.
Jim in Maintenance is putting some patio chairs outside and the housekeeping department is opening windows to let the fresh air in.
Our book group is discussing Water for Elephants today, and it is Wii and chair exercises in the lounge after that.
Here's a photo of one of our talented residents, Marna. Is there anything this woman can not do? She sent her brother a picture she painted:
Take care! Emily
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Birthday Party!
Hi Everyone!
Today the hairdresser is here getting everyone ready for the Birthday party we are havibng this afternoon. Every month we celebrate all the birthdays of the month. We have entertainment, goodies and cake! Even gluten free products for those who have special dietary needs or are watching their figure!
Did I already mention we are reading Water for Elephants and having a discussion about it on Tuesday, then going to see the movie on Wednesday? After that we are meeting with Bristow school across the street to discuss the book Waiting for Normal.
I will try to get some pictures up here today :)
Have a wonderful day and enjoy watching everything bloom. Your social life could also bloom if you made the move to community living. At Canterbury you can do your own thing, or participate in group activities. The choice is yours to dine with us, or prepare meals in your fully appointed kitchen. Our van driver is starting the van now to bring residents to Big Y. It's so convenient to have this service and your grocery bags are carried right to your kitchen counter. You get to save your energy for the fun things like the party this afternoon.
To learn more go to http://www.thecanterburyretirement.com/
Thanks for your interest :)
Emily
Today the hairdresser is here getting everyone ready for the Birthday party we are havibng this afternoon. Every month we celebrate all the birthdays of the month. We have entertainment, goodies and cake! Even gluten free products for those who have special dietary needs or are watching their figure!
Did I already mention we are reading Water for Elephants and having a discussion about it on Tuesday, then going to see the movie on Wednesday? After that we are meeting with Bristow school across the street to discuss the book Waiting for Normal.
I will try to get some pictures up here today :)
Have a wonderful day and enjoy watching everything bloom. Your social life could also bloom if you made the move to community living. At Canterbury you can do your own thing, or participate in group activities. The choice is yours to dine with us, or prepare meals in your fully appointed kitchen. Our van driver is starting the van now to bring residents to Big Y. It's so convenient to have this service and your grocery bags are carried right to your kitchen counter. You get to save your energy for the fun things like the party this afternoon.
To learn more go to http://www.thecanterburyretirement.com/
Thanks for your interest :)
Emily
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Monday, April 18, 2011
Happiness is.....
Happiness is having great residents and staff (really).
As I sat in the dining room with Mr. Pierce going over the welcome book, I watched as resident after resident extended a warm hand of friendship to this gentleman. We really are a friendly and close knit group here. It was great to see such warmth, but really nothing new, I just took the opportunity to really take it in.
Before that, I sat with a group of residents for our book group to discuss The Help. We had such a wonderful time getting better acquainted by telling our stories that related to the story we read. Next up is Water For Elephants, and then we will see the film. After that we meet with the kids from Bristow Middle School to discuss the book Waiting For Normal.
One of the Property Management team was distracting me while I wrote this (Ed). He said something critical about someone and I wrote on the back of a saying I carried in my purse today "Rx: no gossip or criticism" of others today. He was cute. He taped it to his sweatshirt and walked off with a big grin.
I have pictures but am having trouble finding where they downloaded to on this laptop. I also took a picture of Ed helping a resident (Linda) get something out of her eye, after my attempt failed. Time to go see who is winning the Wii bowling tournament in the lounge next door.
See you soon!
Emilyhttp://www.thecanterburyretirement.com/
As I sat in the dining room with Mr. Pierce going over the welcome book, I watched as resident after resident extended a warm hand of friendship to this gentleman. We really are a friendly and close knit group here. It was great to see such warmth, but really nothing new, I just took the opportunity to really take it in.
Before that, I sat with a group of residents for our book group to discuss The Help. We had such a wonderful time getting better acquainted by telling our stories that related to the story we read. Next up is Water For Elephants, and then we will see the film. After that we meet with the kids from Bristow Middle School to discuss the book Waiting For Normal.
One of the Property Management team was distracting me while I wrote this (Ed). He said something critical about someone and I wrote on the back of a saying I carried in my purse today "Rx: no gossip or criticism" of others today. He was cute. He taped it to his sweatshirt and walked off with a big grin.
I have pictures but am having trouble finding where they downloaded to on this laptop. I also took a picture of Ed helping a resident (Linda) get something out of her eye, after my attempt failed. Time to go see who is winning the Wii bowling tournament in the lounge next door.
See you soon!
Emilyhttp://www.thecanterburyretirement.com/
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