Emerald Heights Connection E-News Archive Emerald Heights, a continuing care retirement community in Redmond, Washington, publishes its monthly electronic newsletter, "Connection," to keep its residents, future residents and friends informed of campus events, retirement tips and other information of interest to those considering moving to a retirement community. Each issue includes an update from our resident blogger, Marilyn Farrell. If you are interested in receiving this e-newsletter directly, please join our mailing list. To learn more about Emerald Heights, please visit our web site or give us a call at 425-556-8100 (Toll Free 1-888-735-8168). Connection, February 2013 In this issue, we share some quick downsizing tips from Benevia's Eric Rovner. We also provide updates on our Trailside Building, and resident blogger Marilyn Farrell submits her last column as she prepares to embark on new projects. Connection, January 2013 Happy New Year! We're kicking off 2013 with a seminar and tour of our available homes, plus special pricing available on select, one-bedroom homes when you reserve by February 28. While you're on campus, you might notice a few workers in hard hats. They're busy constructing our new Pavilion and implementing other Master Plan upgrades. Then, resident blogger Marilyn Farrell celebrates her five-year anniversary since moving to Emerald Heights next month and takes some time to reflect on her time here. Connection, December 2012 We kick off the holidays with our annual tree lighting ceremony, and resident blogger Marilyn Farrellreflects on holiday rituals and the memories they stir. With the new year, many of us will resolve to get fit and healthy. At Emerald Heights, residents have never had a better opportunity. Discover how our new Fitness Center offers new opportunities and increased accessibility. Finally, our Trailside Building is now 75% reserved and we anticipate construction in Spring 2012! Connection, October–November 2012 This month we celebrated our 20th Anniversary! We share highlights of our gala dinner and a slideshow. Then resident blogger Marilyn Farrell reflects on the pluck and perseverance of our founders. Finally, we share the latest about our Trailside Building and how to join our Trailblazer 2014 club. Connection, September 2012 We are busy gearing up for our 20th Anniversary Gala, so our residents are taking the lead this month. Wes and Joanne Eckert share what made them decide to move to Emerald Heights and what they've discovered since their move. Then resident blogger Marilyn Farrell gives us a glimpse at her favorite part of the day. Connection, August 2012 The new Fitness Center is up, and the old Fitness Center has come tumbling down. Check this issue of Connection for updates on campus construction and the Trailside building. Connection, July 2012 Things are really heating up around campus (finally!). In this issue, we share photos of our new Fitness Center ribbon-cutting celebration, provide details about our upcoming Annual Open House, and invite you to learn more about our new Trailside Apartments. The resident blogger Marilyn Farrell makes a connection between the independent spirit of our founding fathers and that of her neighbors. Connection, June 2012 We're buzzing with excitement! We've launched a new website, hired a new Director of Food and Beverage, David Landau, reserved more Trailside homes, and announced our Annual Open House. Resident blogger Marilyn Farrell is also excited because she has found her dream job... now that she's retired. Connection, May 2012 In this issue, resident blogger Marilyn Farrell notices signs of spring around the campus, and she shares her observations and photos. Also, in honor of our 20th anniversary celebration, we are introducing a new logo. Finally, residents John and Jean Slonecker share why they moved to Emerald Heights. Connection, April 2012 In this issue of Connection, resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares some funny stories that prove it's a small world after all. Then residents Gordon and Ellie Lindblom share a few of the factors that inspired them to move to Emerald Heights. Connection, March 2012 In this issue of Connection, we promote several upcoming events. Also, CEO Lisa Hardy and new Chief Operations Office Leah Diehl sit down for a Q&A about the construction of our new Fitness Center and other projects. Connection, February 2012 In honor of American Heart Month, this issue of Connection includes stories to warm your heart and keep your heart healthy. Meet Future Residents Jim and Rainy Husband, who have reserved a home in Trailside and joined the Trailblazer 2014 club. Learn from resident blogger Marilyn Farrell what tickles her heart these days. Then try out Chef Justin's recipe for Quinoa Salad. Connection, January 2012 Wondering whether living in community is right for you? Read resident blogger Marilyn Farrell's moving account of how her neighbors have rushed to support her while she deals with a health crisis. Then learn about another fun community project: A Walk Around the World. Finally, meet our newest marketing team member, Andy Kempler. Connection, November/December 2011 In this issue of Connection, resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares a story of Thanksgiving 2010, which turned out to be not only one of the most challenging but also one the most rewarding celebrations ever. We also offer several items of note to those of you considering a move to Emerald Heights, including "Secrets to choosing a great real estate professional." Connection, October 2011 In this issue of Connection, we look to the past with a salute to our founders, to the future with an update on our expansion plans, and to the very engaging present day with Marilyn Farrell's perspective on the fun and friendships to be found at Emerald Heights. Connection, September 2011 In this month's Connection, we celebrate the groundbreaking of our brand new Fitness Center, CEO Lisa Hardy reflects on several campus improvement projects, and resident blogger Marilyn Farrell contemplates how life-changing decisions -- like moving to a retirement community -- are really made. Connection, August 2011 In this month's Connection, we share a brand new video featuring interviews of our residents, who share why they chose Emerald Heights and what life is like for them here. Then resident blogger Marilyn Farrell gives us a glimpse of some of Emerald Heights least seen but most beloved residents. Connection, July 2011 In this month's Connection, we announce two upcoming events, and resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares her photos of the Open House and a video we played that day. Finally, interior design expert Karen Lunn Fisher shares her top 10 tips for making the most of small spaces. Connection, June 2011 In this month's Connection, we preview our Annual Open House and Tour of Resident Homes, and resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares a slideshow of images that capture the myriad activities residents engage in daily. Then CEO Lisa Hardy provides an update on our planned expansion, new Fitness Center, and enhanced Wellness Clinic. Connection, May 2011 In this month's Connection, we announce our Annual Open House and Tour of Resident Homes, scheduled for Saturday, June 4. Then we celebrate volunteerism among our residents, board members, staff and wider community. Resident blogger Marilyn Farrell steps aside this month to give her dog Nessie a chance to howl about the injustice of it all. Sure, human volunteers are fine, but where would you be without "man's best friend"? Finally, our Marketing Team answers some Frequently Asked Questions. Connection, April 2011 This time of year, when the sun finally begins to emerge from behind the clouds, we often feel an extra burst of energy to take care of our to-do list and deal with the tougher tasks we've been avoiding. Resident blogger Marilyn Farrell hopes a little of that initiative extends to her father, who is facing a move of his own. Speaking of initiative, Emerald Heights residents are full of it! One of the many resident-led projects on campus is the Coffee Shop, which will soon reach the $100,000 mark in profits raised for the Benevolence Fund. Even CEO Lisa Hardy took her turn behind the Coffee Shop counter recently to serve her Grandma Reynolds' Oatmeal Pancakes! Connection, March 2011 With spring just around the corner, we announce our new Make Your Move Workshop Series. Then our resident blogger Marilyn Farrell reveals the details of her irresistible Spring Fling. And Sharon Howell shares a little about what brings her to her new position at Emerald Heights. Connection, January 2011 In honor of all those who make and struggle to keep resolutions, we profile two residents who have taken advantage of our Personal Training program to help them stay on track with their fitness goals. Imagine what you could accomplish with your own personal trainer just steps away! Then CEO Lisa Hardy explains how guests at our Master Plan: A Vision for Expansion events are helping shape the future of Emerald Heights, and resident blogger Marilyn Farrell reflects on how the dinner hour has become a wonderful chance to connect with friends, get to know new residents, and share the highlights of the day. Finally, we bid farewell to Marta Willson and welcome Sharon Howell to the marketing team. Connection, December 2010 We celebrate the holiday season as CEO Lisa Hardy reflects on her family's holiday traditions and reveals a treasured cookie recipe. Then resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares how a little plate of cookies can make big changes. She also shares a slide show of the holiday decor she's been enjoying on campus. Connection, November 2010 It's time to take a moment to give thanks. Find out what our residents are grateful for. Resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares how her family's holiday traditions keep family members connected to the past and to each other. Finally, we include a quick update about our Master Plan: A Vision for Expansion meetings. Connection, October 2010 In this issue, more Master Plan events are scheduled, CEO Lisa Hardy reveals some early results of the Master Plan meetings and how the new Fitness Center is taking shape, and resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares some important life lessons she has learned through her recent diagnosis and treatment for cancer. Connection, September 2010 It's time to get a sneak peek at the next step in our Master Plan: A Vision for Expansion. We need your feedback! This issue also includes a Q&A with CEO Lisa Hardy, an update on the health of resident blogger Marilyn Farrell, and links to helpful publications. Connection, July 2010 In this month's Connection, we explain the origin of one of our community's most unusual and delightful features: the Garden Railway. Then, resident blogger Marilyn Farrell reflects on the trail expansion and "what a bunch of old guys with a mission can do"! CEO Lisa Hardy shares stories of her summer hiking adventures and offers an update on the construction project. Finally, for those considering a move this year, we offer new incentives on select two-bedroom homes. Connection, June 2010 We break ground on our latest remodeling project, and share a slide show of the construction process. CEO Lisa Hardy shares some photos from her early summer hiking adventures and offers her perspective on the construction project. Then, resident blogger Marilyn Farrell tries to dispel common misconceptions about living in a retirement community. Connection, May 2010 We highlight some spring happenings -- from Emerald Heights' selection as a finalist for the Eastside Business Awards to the community's participation in the annual Hopelink "End Summer Hunger" Food Drive. We even treat you to some photos of the campus landscaping in glorious spring color. CEO Lisa Hardy reflects on some recent hikes and the important steps Emerald Heights is taking to prepare for the extensive renovations planned for this summer. Then, guest resident blogger Grace Koopmans shares some secrets of living to age 90 and invites you to be her neighbor. Connection, April 2010 This month we announce our innovative new series "Four Course Conversations." Then resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares a candid reflection on this past year since the death of her husband Jack and some comedic moments that came right when she needed them the most. Connection, March 2010 We provide some new details about our Annual Open House. Then we introduce you to resident Dick Pizzo, who played the role of guest chef for the night last week and offered up some good eating for the Emerald Heights community. He shares fond memories of his family in a Q&A. CEO Lisa Hardy reflects on a challenging hike and the important steps she's taking steps now to ensure a healthy future for herself and all Emerald Heights employees. Then resident blogger Marilyn Farrell explains why her lovely new kitchen is the least-used room in her home, and also shares some thought-provoking reader mail. We invite your comments too. Connection, February 2010 We announce our Annual Open House and Tour of Resident Homes, scheduled for Saturday, March 27. Then resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares some great news about her home-selling effort, and local realtor Bill Badgley shares his perspective on the recovering real estate market. Finally, we check in with the Outdoor Club and their latest adventures. Connection, January 2010 We invite you to join us for a luncheon seminar: Smart Investment or Duplicate Expense? When long-term care insurance meets Life Care. Then CEO Lisa Hardy shares more goals from last fall's strategic planning retreat, and resident blogger Marilyn Farrell writes about her decision to put her house on the market and the lessons she has learned so far. Connection, December 2009 CEO Lisa Hardy reveals a primary goal and preliminary action steps from the master planning process, resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares how her neighbors are "decking the halls" and celebrating the winter holidays, and we give you a glimpse inside our newly decorated model home, first revealed at our Showcase of One-Bedroom Homes last week. Then, be sure to mark your calendar for January 26, 2010, and join us for a luncheon seminar: "Smart Investment or Duplicate Expense? When long-term care insurance meets Life Care." Connection, November 2009 We're hosting an Open House Showcase of One-Bedroom Homes next month, and we hope you'll stop by to see what's new. CEO Lisa Hardy and resident Marilyn Farrell offer new personal reflections in their blogs, and we offer a recap of last month's fashion event. Finally, check out the Community Events Calendar for additional fairs and seminars to help you plan your own future. Connection, October 2009 We extend a special invitation for an inspiring and fun fashion show, and resident blogger Marilyn Farrell highlights one of her favorite features of the campus. We also highlight some upcoming community events, including the "Home is Where the Heart Is: Senior Housing & Health Fair." Connection, September 2009 We venture into uncharted territory! First, in an unprecedented move, Emerald Heights leaves entrance fees unchanged for next year. Then, CEO Lisa Hardy announces the launch of her new blog, the Outdoor Club shares stories and photos of its inaugural hiking season, and resident blogger Marilyn Farrell invites you to start up a conversation about retirement by sharing your questions, concerns and tips. Connection, August 2009 We celebrate summer and the season's harvest. Discover how a resident garden supports the Emerald Heights Benevolence Fund. Then see how residents reap the rewards of healthy living at the Fitness Games. Resident blogger Marilyn Farrell reminds us of the joy of growing and cooking our own food. Finally, we share two tasty recipes that make the most of the season's fresh fruit, to keep you cool and hydrated on the hottest days ahead. Connection, June/July 2009 We get an optimistic update about the local real estate market, recap last week's presentation on senior housing options, and offer you a free "retirement personality" assessment. Then resident blogger Marilyn Farrell gives us a dog's eye view of life in a retirement community. We also share how Emerald Heights worked with Clear Path International to ship donated hospital equipment to Cambodia. Connection, May 2009 We extend a special invitation to join us for lunch in June where keynote speaker Peg Witham will share tips for "Navigating the Archipelago of Senior Housing Options." Resident blogger Marilyn Farrell delights in her first dinner party, and another resident, Adele Pickett, explains why she jumped at the chance to move. We also offer a free, Dot-to-Dot Downsizing Kit. Connection, April 2009 We recap our Open House , offer you a FREE Downsizing Kit, and highlight one of our residents' Community Outreach efforts. Resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares her experience of the Open House and offers a slide show of the event. Connection, March 2009 We preview our Open House and Small Space Design Fair and extend a special invitation exclusively for our readers. Our resident blogger Marilyn Farrell shares a slide show of photos she took on the Nature Trail. Connection, February 2009 We recap our successful "Less Stuff, More Freedom" event, offer free Downsizing Tips and Donation Resources, and invite you to tour our model apartment. We top it all off with Chef Justin's recipe for Sweet & Sour Shrimp. Connection, January 2009 In this inaugural issue, we introduce our resident blogger, Marilyn Farrell, and preview an upcoming event. Emerald Heights 10901 176th Circle NE Redmond, Washington 98052-7218 Join our Mailing List!