This speaks for itself; what a resident brought me today:
Hi, my name is Emily and im here to blog the happenings of the friendliest retirement community in West Hartford, Connecticut. I will share daily happenings and happy events!
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Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Contented sigh
Hi Everyone!
I missed you, and this. I've been tweeting a little; it's not just for birds anymore!
This morning I received an email that spoke right to my heart, and I had that sigh of relief that comes with knowing I am right on the same page with someone; no words needed.
It's the same relief I see on the faces of newer residents, still gaging their surroundings, when they are understood by both staff and residents. Their needs are met without their having to state them. It's what we are here for, and truthfully what we're good at.
I saw it on the faces of a son and dad when I pulled out the first aid kit yesterday to stop the blood. We are prepared. We understand what your needs are. Pull the cord if you are having an emergency and you wont be alone; we will be right by your side in moments, 24/7.
How can I not be emotional? This is important!
As I face my own father's aging, I'm reminded of how lucky we are here to have had the brilliant mind of our founder Ray Roy, the man who hired me and who built Canterbury. Proudly we are one of the first of its kind in the area. Our former Marketing Director happily had his own dad retire here a few years ago. Actually most find us by word of mouth. With our age change to 55, we have several younger, active, working people who have moved in, but we also cater to those in their later years. You have your independence at Canterbury, and gentle un-intrusive support if and when you need it.
Just this very morning I was chatting with yet another lovely daughter-in-law helping her parents move in. I asked, "How did you hear about us"? She said when her parents, in their nineties, were thinking about a move, she asked around at work about possibilities for them. Her co-worker said "I'll get you a booklet, my parents are happy there (here at Canterbury)"
Her husband just came to the office door:
He: "There's some grocery carts out here...may I use one (to bring items up and down)"
Me: "Of course, that's what they're here for"
It's an absolute joy to see people learn we ARE what they'd hoped we'd be. The details have been considered. You are safe and you are loved here. Isn't that what we are all looking for?
Hey! Our nurse is here, anyone need their blood pressure checked? There's a continental breakfast set up outside the library. Come on over!
It's great to be back at Canterbury.
With Warm Regards and Best Wishes,
Emily canterburyretirement@yahoo.com
I missed you, and this. I've been tweeting a little; it's not just for birds anymore!
This morning I received an email that spoke right to my heart, and I had that sigh of relief that comes with knowing I am right on the same page with someone; no words needed.
It's the same relief I see on the faces of newer residents, still gaging their surroundings, when they are understood by both staff and residents. Their needs are met without their having to state them. It's what we are here for, and truthfully what we're good at.
I saw it on the faces of a son and dad when I pulled out the first aid kit yesterday to stop the blood. We are prepared. We understand what your needs are. Pull the cord if you are having an emergency and you wont be alone; we will be right by your side in moments, 24/7.
How can I not be emotional? This is important!
As I face my own father's aging, I'm reminded of how lucky we are here to have had the brilliant mind of our founder Ray Roy, the man who hired me and who built Canterbury. Proudly we are one of the first of its kind in the area. Our former Marketing Director happily had his own dad retire here a few years ago. Actually most find us by word of mouth. With our age change to 55, we have several younger, active, working people who have moved in, but we also cater to those in their later years. You have your independence at Canterbury, and gentle un-intrusive support if and when you need it.
Just this very morning I was chatting with yet another lovely daughter-in-law helping her parents move in. I asked, "How did you hear about us"? She said when her parents, in their nineties, were thinking about a move, she asked around at work about possibilities for them. Her co-worker said "I'll get you a booklet, my parents are happy there (here at Canterbury)"
Her husband just came to the office door:
He: "There's some grocery carts out here...may I use one (to bring items up and down)"
Me: "Of course, that's what they're here for"
It's an absolute joy to see people learn we ARE what they'd hoped we'd be. The details have been considered. You are safe and you are loved here. Isn't that what we are all looking for?
Hey! Our nurse is here, anyone need their blood pressure checked? There's a continental breakfast set up outside the library. Come on over!
It's great to be back at Canterbury.
With Warm Regards and Best Wishes,
Emily canterburyretirement@yahoo.com
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Elizabeth Park
Hi Everyone-
The rain stopped just in time for our trip to see the rose garden at Elizabeth Park and enjoy lunch at the Pond House. Above is a photograph of Elizabeth park taken by our resident Marna. Too see more of Marna's photography stop by The Canterbury. We have several of a series titled "Blossoms" on display in the foyer and in the dining room.A lady walked by The Canterbury yesterday and said to our Maintenance Director Jim, "it's starting to look like Elizabeth Park here". That is mainly due to the work of our residents Eunice and Gladys. These two gardeners received a certificate for a tour of The Mark Twain House at our last resident meeting because of the beautification program they have initiated, making The Canterbury resemble Elizabeth Park to passers by!
Happy Summer!
Emily
Friday, June 10, 2011
Thunderstorms
Hi All!
We are safe and sound after another round of thunderstorms. The Wii is in operation in the Recreation room, residents are on the patio, a scrabble game is taking place in the lounge, and it is time for me to wish you a happy and healthy weekend!
Please feel free to stop by The Canterbury and see all the new flowers Gladys and Eunice have planted :D
If you can't come over, why not visit our website at http://www.thecanterburyretirement.com/
Thanks everyone. Don't be afraid to press "follow this blog". I'd love to have you as one of our group!
Frankie is here! Time to go :D
BIG HUGS! Emily
We are safe and sound after another round of thunderstorms. The Wii is in operation in the Recreation room, residents are on the patio, a scrabble game is taking place in the lounge, and it is time for me to wish you a happy and healthy weekend!
Please feel free to stop by The Canterbury and see all the new flowers Gladys and Eunice have planted :D
If you can't come over, why not visit our website at http://www.thecanterburyretirement.com/
Thanks everyone. Don't be afraid to press "follow this blog". I'd love to have you as one of our group!
Frankie is here! Time to go :D
BIG HUGS! Emily
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
By The Way
Last week we went to the Casino...this week The Mystic Aquarium is on our calendar. Have you looked at a Beluga whale up close? They are fantastic!!!
All you have to do is live at Canterbury, sign up on your bulletin board, and you are whisked away to fun and exciting places!
Canterbury- something to look forward to!
There's room on the van for more :D
For more information contact me, Emily, at
canterburyretirement@yahoo.com
All you have to do is live at Canterbury, sign up on your bulletin board, and you are whisked away to fun and exciting places!
Canterbury- something to look forward to!
There's room on the van for more :D
For more information contact me, Emily, at
canterburyretirement@yahoo.com
Friday, June 3, 2011
Massachusetts
Good afternoon!
We were a southerly wind and a sound away from literally feeling your agony. Our distance is short, and our heart strings solid.
Rest in peace to the victims of this tornado. To those trying to make sense and rebuild, we are sending our love and support.
Our hearts also go out to our fallen troops, and all those brave souls serving and supporting those in the military.
Have a good weekend everyone.
Let us not take anything for granted.
I've been here at Canterbury fifteen years TODAY (shhhh), and am feeling very sentimental.
Peace,
Emily
We were a southerly wind and a sound away from literally feeling your agony. Our distance is short, and our heart strings solid.
Rest in peace to the victims of this tornado. To those trying to make sense and rebuild, we are sending our love and support.
Our hearts also go out to our fallen troops, and all those brave souls serving and supporting those in the military.
Have a good weekend everyone.
Let us not take anything for granted.
I've been here at Canterbury fifteen years TODAY (shhhh), and am feeling very sentimental.
Peace,
Emily
Friday, May 20, 2011
Being New Here
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
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
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