THE BLOSSOM

December, 2009 Edition
In This Issue
Caregivers Corner and Featured Residents
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Dear Family and Friends,
 
Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas.  I might as well start out with that, because that is what most people think of when December comes.  It's not like we can really help it, though.  Beginning the day after Halloween, Christmas music and propoganda ring through stores, shopping malls, and in the media. 
 
Personally, I don't mind the "hoopla" that surrounds Christmas.  I love the carols, the bright lights and excitment that the holiday brings.  It's almost like Christmas inspires hope and encouragment.  People are kinder, volunteer more, and take time to think about others (even if it's simply for a "secret santa" gift).   Why not start it early?  November, in fact, may be too late.  Let's make Christmas in July last through to the New Year!  OK, ok, that'x not realistic.  That would be pretty exhausting and expensive; not to mention, take away some of the luster that Christmas brings.
 
Nonetheless, Christmas is nearly here and Sunshine Gardens is ready!  We have many wonderful activites scheduled and are looking forward to a loving holiday!  Join us today, tomorrow, or on Christmas Day!  We celebrate all of the time, because we want to!
 

Caregiver's Corner                      By: Resident Lou Gans

With prior experience in senior caregiving (along with childcare) this new addition to our staff demonstrates an enormous amount of warmth and talent in the performances of her duties.  Her name is Lora Marsh and we welcome you with open arms.
 
Born in New Hampshire, Lora lived in Boston, San Diego, and of all places, India.  Her wandering feet delivered her to Nepal, Japan, and Thailand.  Lora spent some time in the Taj Mahal, walked around the Himalayan Mountains, and also camped across the United States, including the Grand Canyon. 
 
On her last trip to India, Lora lived in a hut for 2 years, the essence of a simple and unforgettable life.
 
Vacationing in Durango some 20 years ago, Lora was magnetized to live in here!  Her 3 siblings all live in Boston.
 
Lora has a Bachelor of Science Degree from Bridgewater College in Massachusetts.
 
"I want to live a peaceful, thankful life and to be content and fulfilled each day," says Lora.  In that respect we are with you! 
 
Born in Oklahoma and raised in Colorado Springs, our new and youthful caregiver is Jessica Bowers.
 
Her previous and present employment includes Subway and Sunshine Gardens.  Her demeanor is very pleasant and her desire to please Sunshine Gardens West residents is obvious from what we observe.
 
Jessica formerly lived in Woodland, Oklahoma, Colorado Springs, Littleton, and Parker, Colorado.
 
Jessica to date has devoted 2 years at Fort Lewis College being educated in Environmental Studies.  Her siblings live in Littleton, Florida, and Durango.
 
As a single woman, Jessica has wandered through Michigan, West Virginia, Canada, Pennsylvania, and many other states. 
 
Jessica should become a locksmith, because she constantly locks herself out of her car.  This could help some.
 
You'll learn a lot about human behavior at Sunshine Gardens, which will result in added maturity.  The best of everything to you, Jessica!    
    

FEATURED RESIDENTS 
By: Lou Gans, Sunshine Gardens Resident
 
In her own quiet way, she gets involved in more Sunshine Gardens activities than most other residents we have observed.  Her name is Iona Nossaman and all of us around you appreciate your being a resident at Sunshine Gardens.
 
Iona was born in the town of Kline, Colorado and lived for a while in La Plata, New Mexico.  Iona resided most of her earlier days in many small nearby towns in Colorado such as: Arboles, Monte Vista, Pagosa Springs, and Ignacio.
 
Iona has 4 children (3 girls and 1 boy) and three siblings.  Iona prefers living in Durango close by those family members living here.
 
Her parents must have been around when she attained a Bachelor of Arts degree specializing in education.
 
One of her future desires includes attaining improved health.  Iona, you are not alone.  Being as involved as you are in so many activities here, your mind is kept well and busy!  At least we'll cheer you on.  You have our support!
 
For the most part of her life her time was spent in Durango and hardly anywhere else.  Resident Mary Short Beaston was (according to her) delivered by the stork.  I'm sure her parents William and Bell Constantine Short had something to do with her arrival here, too!  Her education included 11 years at Sunnyside and Alamosa High School and one year at Fort Lewis College.  Mary's brother and sisters (Betty, Chester, and Marilyn) can attest to this.  Her sister Betty now lives in Spokane, WA and Marilyn in Alamagordo, NM.
 
Her voyage some to ago to Hawaii was enjoyable, but Mary looks forward to the day she can be in her own home again.
 
Mary, that's not a bad thought.  We hope someday your wish shall be fulfilled!

December Activities
By: Rachel Gressler, Sunshine Gardens Activities Director
 
We are looking forward to a busy holiday season. Beginning this week, we will be putting up lights and decorations and are looking forward to hosting many carolers.  It is always astounding that so many volunteers surface around the holidays.
 
We will be hosting a plethora of school aged children, as well as, exciting professional performers.  Sunshine Gardens will also serve our annual family invite Christmas luncheon, watch your mailbox for the invite.
 
This month we will also be welcoming back 
"Little Heather" as activities director.  I head back to school in January.  It has been an honor working with your family members.  Your loved ones are all very special and I cherish the time I have gotten to be with them.  I will miss them too much to be a stranger, and while I will no longer be an employee at Sunshine Gardens, I will always be a friend and volunteer. 
Welcome to all new residents!  We are so excited to have you live with us!  All at Sunshine Gardens hope your experience is lovely, wonderful, and full of goodness!
 
Please check out our blog site at www.DurangoSeniors.org.  Take advantage of the free resource!  It's worth it!  


Sincerely,

Trisha Kellogg-Marketing Director