THE BLOSSOM

October, 2010 Edition
In This Issue
Featured Residents, Caregiver's Corner, Name That Tune
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Dear Family and Friends,
 
BOO!  The month of Halloween is here. In fact, the month of "many things" is here.   I Googled October to check out all of the observances....it is amazing how many things are celebrated.  For example, during the month of October, people recognize Wishbone for Pets Month, Positive Attitude Month, Sausage Month (and for you vegetarians, Spinach Lovers Month), National Popcorn Poppin' Month, and National Class Reunion Month, to name a few.  It seems like there is always a reason to celebrate or raise awareness.  I love this! 

Sunshine Gardens chose to observe October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month by partnering with the the Mercy Foundation from Mercy Regional Hospital.  We are helping support the Journey of Hope Walk/Run for a cure. (Oct. 2nd event starting at the newly built Breast Cancer Center.)  Sunshine Gardens is honored to be a part of such a great cause and hope other communities join in the fight against breast cancer!

We have also decided to make October, Sunshine Gardens Awareness Month.  November will be Sunshine Gardens Celebration Month.  December will be Sunshine Gardens Country Home Rocks the World Month. . .well, you get the idea.  We all like an excuse to celebrate here at Sunshine Gardens and I say we go for it!  Does anyone know if I need to write Congress to get this approved???  Hmmm, with all of the issues and items of agenda piling on their desks; I'd probably hear back today! 

Anyway, the point of this little soap box is to enjoy life.  Make excuses to celebrate and to laugh!  Try Trick-or-Treating in April and see how many people actually give you a treat...ok, now I'm getting a little out-of-control.  Enjoy October and life in general!

FEATURED RESIDENTS             By: Lou Gans, Sunshine Gardens Resident


Born in Corona, New Mexico, we welcome this recently acquired SGW Resident Jewell Smithson.  In her early years, she lived everywhere including: Oklahoma, California, Arizona, and many places throughout New Mexico.

Jewell was employed as a waitress and also as a USDA Inspector.  All 4 of her siblings live in McAlester, Oklahoma.  Jewell is the eldest of 14 children. . .the 4 mentioned above are still alive.

As a waitress, Jewell met her husband, who was almost an everyday client.  6 of Jewel's 7 children are scattered throughout California, Arizona, and Oklahoma.  The 7th, and only girl Tracy, lives here in Durango!

Besides a tour of the US, Jewell has visited England, France, Germany, and Denmark.  She aspires to be Director Of Sunshine Gardens.  (Me, too!  When I see Mr. Hilger, I'll tell him!)

Your humor, pleasant personality, and outspokenness make it a delight to be around you! 
 

Though legally blind, this new resident has greater vision and foresight than many people with perfect vision.  Converse with her for a short time and you will apprehend my thoughts, as well.
 
This charming person is Margaret Holt.  Get to know her!!! 

Born in Texas, she also resided in many Texas cities and Farmington, NM, prior to her stay in Durango where her husband bought a business.

Her boss introduced her to the eligible men in town including her future husband!  Margaret's education covered beauty and hair styling, keeping her occupied for quite a while. 

Her 3 male siblings are all deceased, sadly.  Two of Margaret's daughters Francis Kay and Susan live in Durango and the third daughter, Ann, lives in Camino, California.

Margaret collected antiques and took painting classes until she lost her eyesight.  She aspires to remain healthy and that she will do!  Your spirit amazes me!  Please don't change!!!








CAREGIVER'S CORNER 
By: Lou Gans, Sunshine Gardens Resident
 
Probably the youngest caregiver ever joining our forces is Lauren Walker.  However, she is learning, rapidly, the schedule and duties and she is most definitely proving herself.  Lauren, we welcome you with open arms.

Lauren was born in Fresno, California, and lived there 'till she moved to Auburn, CA, then later to Fort Collins, CO.

As a high school graduate, she enjoyed a trip up and down the coast of Washington and California. 

Occasionally, she and her brother, Michael (who lives in Fort Collins), socialize and enjoy each other's company. 

Lauren aspires to become a Veterinarian or a Registered Nurse.  I salute you for your options; they are both good choices.

Being employed at SGW is an education in itself from which to gain a world of knowledge.  Good luck, Lauren. 

 






NAME THAT TUNE
By: Lou Gans, Sunshine Gardens Resident

On September 24th, a "Name that Tune" contest was held in the Sunshine Room, in which, 7 plus residents participated.  20 tunes were played on the piano and contestants wrote the answers they decided upon.  Others not playing were there to hear the music and be a part of the action.

Here are the results of the contest by name and score.  The winner was Joan Brown who received a nice prize for her success!  Congratulations. 

Judy Lewellen-13, Charles Mitz-15, Hazel Lee-14, Nixie Hays-15, Florence Japhet-11, Ed O'Neil-12, Joan Brown-16--WINNER!!!!

Other residents are welcome to participate and also enjoy the fun!!!!  Check your activity schedule for date and times!!!


OCTOBER FEST AT SUNSHINEOCTOBER FEST AT SUNSHINE
By: Gina Pruett, Sunshine Gardens Resident

Friday, September 24th, we celebrated the 200th Anniversary of the original Oktoberfest that is celebrated in Munich, Germany.

Heather did the most beautiful, authentic decorating, serving various beers (one brewed in Germany "Paulaner"), pretzels, and brauts.

Gina presented the program by telling about the history: It started as a horse race, celebrating King Ludwigs I wedding to Princess Therese, a princess from Saxony that today attracts 6 million visitors from all over the world. 

Those who attended the party, including many visitors, enjoyed a great time and were able to expand their knowledge!

PROST!!!
Look forward to trick-or-treating!!!  It will take place on Friday, October 29th from 3:30PM-5:00PM.  Get spooked and treated by our participating residents.  It is a fun time had by all!!!!

Enjoy life and celebrate a fun month...whatever you choose to celebrate!
 

Sincerely,
Trisha Kellogg-Marketing Director