Garden Way Retirement Community

New activity. Watercolor

2012-03-13T17:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a wonderful lady named robin that came in and did our first watercolor class ever. It already from the beginning was a hit. We had six residents roaring to go, two whom brought their own colors and all. The other all ready to learn. The first class consist of how to work with the watercolor and how to use it correctly. They all made a color wheel to begin with then started to have fun and see how the colors all blend and run together. Plus they learned that salt is a good add on for art. Makes cool looking pebbles.

Garden Way Golf

2012-03-05T12:15:00.000-08:00

The halls were full of obstacles and putters as we prepared for the quarterly Garden Way Golf Tournament! The residents came ready to swing as they maneuvered their way through the courses on each floor! Even the kitchen staff got involved and constructed a hole in one obstacle for the residents to enjoy! Our winner, Jeff was smiling ear to ear as he received his trophy, and funny money for being the champion!

Roaring Rapids Pizza

2012-02-28T09:13:00.000-08:00

One of our residents favorite place to eat is Roaring Rapids Pizza Company. Not only is there delicious pizza for a great deal, but also a beautiful view overlooking the Willamette River. We had a great time socializing just in time to ride the carousel.

Rene ordered a pizza that she thought was an individual size... this is what she got instead... haha

Chowing down

Betty on the Carosuel

Name that Tune!!!!!!!

2012-02-24T14:23:00.000-08:00

We had our very own resident Betty Rust host a game for our residents "Name that Tune". Over twenty residents came out to enjoy a game in which Betty played a song, and our residents wrote down what song they thought it was. The competition was fierce because the prize was a valued FREE MEAL ticket for a resident to invite a friend! Everyone had a great time singing along and reminiscing about what they remember about each song!

Betty playing her first song

Our winner Hal, who guessed 24 out of 26 songs correct!

Albany Carousel and Hungarian Food

2012-02-20T12:07:00.000-08:00

This past Friday we went on an amazing trip to the Albany Carousel Studio where volunteers are currently working to create a hand carved, hand painted carousel which will be located in the downtown area. It was amazing to see the detail that went into each sculpture. Each of the animals on the carousel were designed by members of the community, this each animal has a story. Please take a look at the link for more information regarding the project!

We then at lunch at Novak's Hungarian food which was out of this world delicious! I have never had Hungarian food but let me tell you it was so yummy!

Love is in the Air

2012-02-17T08:22:00.000-08:00

At Garden Way, love is in the air and we are loving every minute of it! This Valentines Day we celebrated with a candlelight dinner and dance. Each resident voted for the "sweetest heart" of Garden Way then continued by dancing the night away! Here are some pictures of our evening!

Joe and Gladys voted "sweetest hearts" of Garden Way!

Thrilling Thursday!

2012-01-26T13:28:00.000-08:00

Today kicked off our first "Thrililng Thursday" which is a raffle our residents can enter in order to win a special meal just for them!! Our Chef Martin meets with the resident and plans a special meal for them and 7 of their friends!!! The private dinning room is reserved special for them and Chef Martin even eats with them as well! Jeff was our first winner and chose to have Chef make fried chicken mashed potatoes and homemade biscuits. Here are some pictures of our first Thrilling Thursday!

2012-01-20T10:32:00.001-08:00

Pet and Dog Show

2012-01-18T09:02:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, we had a wonderful experience with our residents and some of their favorite things their pets!! We started off the day with Zany Zoo a local pet store in town who brings over lots of fuzzy wuzzies that our residents could play with. It is always such a joy to see the residents faces light up while admiring all the beautiful creatures.

The highlight of the day was our dog show. Residents brought their favorite pouch and modeled the dog for us while talking about the breed, where they got them and any interesting stories or facts about the dog. One resident even brought her bird Sunshine, who she names after our company! :)

Beanbag Baseball Men VS Women

2012-01-11T12:56:00.000-08:00

Last week we had our beanbag baseball competition with the men challenging the women a game.We had a HUGE turn out of people ready to have some fun and throw some beanbags! The men took an early lead and were able to hold it until the end of the game, although the women did try to rally at the end of thee game. The women may have lost the game, we let them know that they were defiantly the better looking team!

Z-U-M-B-A!

2012-01-06T12:45:00.000-08:00

Zumba classes feature exotic rhythms set to high-energy Latin and international beats. Before participants know it, they’re getting fit and their energy levels are soaring! There’s no other fitness class like a Zumba Fitness-Party. It’s easy to do, effective and totally exhilarating, often building a deep-rooted community among returning students.

Zumba Gold takes formula and modifies the moves and pacing to suit the needs of the active older participant, as well as those just starting their journey to a fit and healthy lifestyle. What stays the same are all the elements the Zumba Fitness-Party is known for: the zesty Latin music, like salsa, merengue, cumbia and reggaeton; the exhilarating, easy-to-follow moves; and the invigorating, party-like atmosphere. Active older adults want camaraderie, excitement and fitness as a regular part of their weekly schedule. Zumba Gold is the perfect fit. It’s a dance-fitness class that feels friendly, and most of all, fun.

Rose to Power

2012-01-03T16:59:00.000-08:00

As mentioned before, in Eugene we really LOVE OUR DUCKS and we had the honor of watching them rise to victory over the Wisconsin Beadgers yesterday afternoon. We enjoyed snacks prepared by our kitchen staff and cheered in our movie theater. Before the game started each resident predicted the end score of the game in hopes of winning a University of Oregon football. A new resident Rochelle predicted the score the closet and won the football! We had a blast cheering loud, eating food and being proud of our Ducks!

Hal showing off his score prediction

Betty Lou and Jody with the funny money they earned from the game

Cynthia showing her DUCK spirt

New Years Eve Celebration

2012-01-03T08:28:00.000-08:00

At Garden Way we rung in the new year in style. We said goodbye to the year 2011, reflecting on all the memories of the year, and said hello to the New Year, hopeful for what is to come! The afternoon started off with a comedy show by Brick Wall Comedy Club which had residents laughing, we then welcomed Hearts in Harmony, a local singing group who sang popular show tunes. We enjoyed the entertainment while wearing our festive hats and necklaces. As Hearts in Harmony sang "Auld Lang Syne", we rung in the new years with cider and noise makers!!

The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear...

2011-12-16T09:23:00.000-08:00

We have had some amazing voices coming to Garden Way to help spread Christmas cheer into the lives of our residents. A local Boy Scout Troop came to sing carols to our residents and enjoy ice cream with them in our Coca Cola room after! The boys sang songs and gave lots of hugs to our residents. We also had The Dublinairs from Sheldon High School come to perform for us. Although all the students are high schoolers their animation, harmony and voices where defiantly at the professional level! What a treat it was to have them here!

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

2011-12-14T12:51:00.000-08:00

The Holiday season is in full swing here at Garden Way! Between all the delicious treats and festive entertainment we are keeping busy, and having fun along the way! :) This past week we had the great pleasure of having The Eugene Youth Ballet here to perform their Holiday performance. The dancers had beautiful costumes and even more beautiful dances! The angelic sounds of the Greater Eugene Sacred Choir were heard throughout the halls Thursday night as their voices sang cheerful Christmas songs. We also had The Oregon Tuba Association come and perform for us! Here are some pictures from both events for you to enjoy! Join us tonight as we host the Sheldon High School Dubliniars as they sing for our residents at 4:00!

Santa Claus is coming to town...

2011-12-12T15:40:00.000-08:00

Last night was a magical night indeed has we had a visit from good old Saint Nick! He was jolly and jolly and brought some joy (and candy canes) to Garden Way! The resident sipped on cider and eggnog, ate cookies and talked about the things they most enjoyed about Christmas. Here are some memorable pictures from the event!

It's begining to look a lot like Christmas...

2011-11-30T10:05:00.000-08:00

The turkey has been eaten and the leaves are beginning to fall which only means one thing, the Christmas season is now upon us! The day after Thanksgiving our BEAUTIFUL fully flocked Douglas fir by Gray's Garden Center, a local nursery here in town. The smell of the tree has since since the lobby and puts a smile on every one's face as the walk by. Our maintenance man, Terry, did an amazing job spreading Christmas cheer with all of the decorations he put up for us!

Placing the Angel on top!

Beautiful!

One resident, Marlene, has already set up here tree in the hallway by her apartment! It is specially decorated with cats and chairs. Cats, because she LOVES cats and aside from owning two of her own she has many cross stitch pictures, clothing and art work to show her love. The chairs represent a group of friends which Marlene has had for many many years. Each time they get together the 7 of them exchange chair ornaments which now hang on her tree to reminder her of her friends and the memories they share!

Marlene showing off her beautiful tree!

Bean Bag Base Ball: Staff VS Residents

2011-11-25T15:29:00.000-08:00

Today marked a day in history at Garden Way. We had our quarterly competition where the residents take on the staff in our most loved activity, bean bag baseball. Residents were up to bat first and were off to a good start as they put up some big points on the board. The staff continued the point scoring and pulled into the lead slightly. The game remained competitive, but most importantly remained FUN! There were numerous, jokes, laughs and home runs as the game continued on!It was neck and neck til the end of the game, where the staff took the lead and was able to hold it til the end of the game! The score at the end of the game was Residents 16, Staff 19! The residents are already talking about strategies to beat the staff in our next showdown!

The staff (from left to right Chelsea, Brenda, Jeffrey, Sierra, Laurel)

The residents: (from left to right) Jody, Kathryn, Virgina, Bill, Ruth, Larry, Marge, Rene

Assistant Manager Jeffrey hits yet another home run!

Jody, warming up before the game!

Our very own Babe Ruth!

House keeper Sierra plays for the staff!

A beanbag thrown by a resident hangs on the edge of a homerun!

Larry the "3rd base king" getting ready to throw!

The final score

Opperation Christmas Child

2011-11-17T15:22:00.000-08:00

Operation Christmas Child is a global Christmas gift exchange project operated by Samaritan's Purse. Each November it opens thousands of locations, typically at churches or schools, to collect shoe boxes filled with toys, school supplies, personal items, and other gifts. These boxes are then distributed as Christmas gifts for children who do not typically receive gifts. From 1993 through 2008, some 69 million gift boxes have been handed out in more than 130 countries.

A group of ladies at Garden Way gathered together to collect items, place them in boxes and send them to children all around the world. We gathered small toys such as balls, coloring books, crayons, jump ropes, dolls, toy trucks, small candies as well as hygiene items and then packaged them into boxes. Marlene then beautifully wrapped each box and placed Christmas cards inside. We took them to the distribution center where they will reach kids all over the world and be able to enjoy the wonderful joy of Christmas!

SLAP HAPPY DRUMS

2011-11-15T10:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Connor from Slap Happy Drums came to play a concert for our residents. But it was definitely like no concert we had ever seen before! Connor started out playing a variety of drums for our residents and then handed out drums and allowed them to play with him! He taught the residents some tips and tricks to make the instruments sound the best the can! It was enjoyable for everyone to not only hear the music, but to be able to take part in it as well!

Happy Birthday Garden Way!

2011-11-14T14:12:00.000-08:00

Today marks the one year mark from when we opened our doors! And yesterday we made sure to party in style! We had our first annual dessert extravaganza and open house! Each floor of the building was layered with fancy pies, cakes, tarts, cheesecake, popcorn, veggie wraps, fresh fruit, root beer floats and even a chocolate fountian!! We also had a resident art show in which our residents displayed their beautiful artwork.

Talk about YUMMY!! :)

We had a wonderful time showing off our beautiful apartments and friendly residents and staff!

High Tea

2011-11-07T12:14:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, the ladies at Garden Way got dressed in their most elegant dresses, hats and gloves for the Garden Way High Tea. The soft harp music by local musician Rachel Miller filled the air as the ladies enjoyed the beautiful melodies, delicious food and great conversation.

Jody showing off the raffle prize she won!

Mckenzie and Paula setting up for the tea

Pretty Hats

Friends, Food and great conversation

Betty Admires the beautiful Pot

Virgina enjoys her Russian Tea Cake

Harpist, Rachel Miller

Even in Oregon we can have a little SUNSHINE!

2011-11-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

Meet resident Jo Collins and her parakeet SUNSHINE. After our first pet day Jo realized that she wanted to get an animal, someone to look after and to keep her company. After looking at various animals Jo decided to invest in a parakeet and found Sunshine. Although Sunshine appears like another bird, he definitely is not! Sunshine can often be seen in his carrier either in the arms of Jo or in the front basket of her motorized scooter. Sunshine is also an artist, taking Styrofoam cups and chipping away at the edges, creating unique designs! Wednesday in the lobby Jo decided to display all of her art in the lobby so all who passed by could see what amazing things her bird can do!

We are filling up fast!

2011-11-03T08:42:00.000-07:00

Garden Way is filling up fast and we have had countless move-ins over the past few months! We have developed a welcoming committee, comprised of residents who have a desire to meet and get to know our new residents! Each month we have a dinner with our new residents and the welcome committee in our very special private dining room. It is an opportunity for our resident to find out what interests our newest residents have and in what activities, clubs or events they would most likely enjoy.

On Tuesday night we had our first dinner and Annie, Rob, Les and Bernice (and their son Peter too!)joined us as they were welcomed by Jeri, Marlene, Jody and Kathleen! They enjoyed a wonderful meal in the private dining room and even a hand delivered dessert made special for them from Executive Chef Martin.

Monster Mash, Ballroom Bash!

2011-11-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the debut of our Monster Mash, Ballroom Bash! We invited residents and their family and friends to join us in celebrating Halloween. Residents and guests wore a variety of costumes including witches, kittens, angels, flappers, hippies, ghosts and even King Kong! Local musician Carl Duvuhl played music as we danced the afternoon away. We then had a costume contest for the scariest, funniest, most creative and least likely to recognize. Everyone had a great time eating cookies and candies, conversing with friends and celebrating the day!

Here are just some of the fun moments that occured.

Trick or Treat

2011-10-26T13:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the halls of Garden Way were not filled with the usual shrieks and shrills of Halloween, but instead filled laughter and excitement. Our favorite Girl Scouts came to visit each resident they saw they gave a special painted pumpkin. The girls were decorated in Halloween costumes and during dinner time went to each table and trick or treated going from table to table.

Oktoberfest

2011-10-19T09:24:00.000-07:00

Guten Tag!

Yesterday at Garden Way we had our first Oktoberfest! The accordion music was playing, people were dancing and stomachs were fill to the brim with delicious German food made specially by our Executive Chef Martin and Sous Chef Brandon! We all enjoyed pork chops, sausage and sour crout, beet salad, pear walnut salad, apple fritters, corn on the cob, green beans and German chocolate cake for dessert. A local musician, Carl Duvahu,l played traditional German Music as our residents and guest danced the afternoon away!

Ninkasi Brewery

2011-10-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

According to the Oregon Brewers Guild, there is an estimated 159 microbreweries in Oregon. We were able to travel across town to Ninkasi, the third largest brewery in Oregon for a tour and beer tasting. Marlene's granddaughter Zoe is the director of the tasting room at Ninkasi and set us up with a private tour, as well as free tastings of their most popular selections of beer. The tour showed the process it took to from wheat and barley until it is bottled to perfection and our tour giude Winter, knew exactly what we would want to see! We then got to sit in the crisp fall air and enjoy beer tasting compliments of Zoe!

Winter showing us what Hops looked and smelled like

Marge telling us that this keg was her serving size

Zoe explaining the different beers to us

The crew holding their favorite drink

Karaoke Night

2011-10-13T15:20:00.000-07:00

Last night at Garden Way was a true party which showed what fun loving and zestful residents we have here! Sandra, one of our residents, asked if we could pull out her karaoke machine for a good time! And that is just what we did! Our assistant managers, Jeffrey and Sheila started of the night singing "I Got You Babe" to set the mood. We then enjoyed an evening of various songs ranging in genre. Before long, our karaoke night turned into a sing-a-long as residents enjoyed all joining in and singing their favorite songs such as "In the Garden", "Could I Have This Dance", "My Old Kentucky Home" and so much more! There were many laughs and smiles as we all reminisced through song after song bringing back joyous memories!

Oregon Tuba Association

2011-10-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

Since 1979 the Oregon Tuba Association (OTA) has been gathering players of tubas, sousaphones, euphoniums and baritones to present a concerts to promote the image and appreciation of the Tuba their use as a means of artistic expression. We had the privilege of not only having a concert by the OTA but all 26 players also came to join in a meal with us before they played. Like all guests who share a meal with us, the OTA was amazed by the hospitality of our management and residents and of course the taste of the amazing apple

cider chicken they enjoyed!

2011-09-28T10:42:00.000-07:00

Our Garden Way Salon is now OPEN!

Stylist / Barber Patti Setzer is now open every Wednesday from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm and scheduling appointments for all of your hair care needs. As our Family grows, so will Patti’s days here at Garden Way. From Shampoo & Sets to Cuts & Curls, Patti is here to help keep you looking your greatest. You may call her to schedule an appointment and of course always feel free to pop in and say “Hi!”.

Call for an appointment: Patti Setzer (541) 232-3723

Men’s Hair Cuts: $10 & up

Women’s Hair Cuts $18 & up

Shampoo & Set $18

Shampoo & Blow-dry $18

Perms: $50 and up (includes Haircut & Style)

Hair Color:

Semi: $40 & up

Color: $45 & up

Highlights: $50 & up

Garden Way Salon is located on the first floor, north end and is across from the Laundry Room.

2011-09-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

Garden Way Retirement Presents our very first Square Dance

Please take a moment to enjoy pictures from our day full of do si doing!

Another free digital scrapbook by Smilebox

Lane County Audubon Society

2011-09-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Lane County Audubon Society is a chapter of the National Audubon Society and a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of and education about our natural environment, with a primary focus on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats.

We had the unique opportunity to have Kris, who is the chair of the education department for the Audubon Society, visit Garden Way and do a workshop on bird watching and identification. After a short lecture on different types of birds using a teaching collection of stuffed birds, the lesson was coupled with drawing birds and learning a layered color pencil technique. Each of the residents learned new and interesting facts about a varitey of birds and then had a blast learning how to draw them as well!

Kris displays a stuffed bird while teaching the residents how to draw birds.

Virgina studying the birds before drawing

Gerry admiring the birds

Bobbi with her new bird friend

Virgina puts her creative skills to the test

One of the many birds that was drawn

Marge and her grandaughter Elisabeth deciding what to draw

A Trip Down Memory Lane

2011-09-23T10:40:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Pianist Gus Russell and violinist David Burham presentied 'Music of the Movies'. It was a wonderful presentation of the wide variety of music that has been used in the movies since the 1920s. Some of the songs included were: 'Somewhere Over The Rainbow', 'Blue Skies', 'Edelweiss', 'It Had To Be You', and many other classics that residents enjoyed singing along with. Gus and David gave background information and interesting facts about the music, movies and composers. The resident talked about memories which were remembered as the songs filled our community.

Better Bones & Balance

2011-09-19T10:44:00.000-07:00

As we age, bone health and balance support become issues of increasing interest and concern. It is vitally important that we all commit to the daily work and activity that it takes to make our bodies the healthiest they can be, no matter ones age. Garden Way has a variety of wellness and fitness classes each day that work towards reaching this goals. We recently have added "Better Bones and Balance" classes twice a week for our residents.

The Better Bones & Balance Program (BBB) is based on research from Oregon State University’s Bone Research Laboratory. Study participants who performed balance and strength exercises using weighted vests reduced their rate of hip bone loss and reduced their risk of falls. All of the study participants were post menopausal women. The BBB classes are designed to gradually improve balance and strength to avoid falls and maintain independence.

Visit the Better Bones and Balance frequently asked questions page to learn more about the program and osteoporosis. You will also find sample programs for beginners, intermediate and advanced exercises and exercise logs that you can download to help you begin exercising on your own.

Join us Mondays at 9:30 with a class taught by our wellness director, Laurel Mathiesen or Thursdays at 9:30 with classes taught by Cindy O'Brien.

An Anniversary to Remember

2011-09-13T16:00:00.000-07:00

I am sure everyone reading this blog can remember what they were doing 10 years ago this past Sunday, September 11th. It was a day that brings about many emotions, feelings and a time a reflection for each person. We are so blessed to have so many men and women at Garden Way who have served our country and just like the heroes of 9/11 each of our veterans have made American the land of the free and the home of the brave! Garden Way ordered a beautiful flag with each one of the victims names in the red and blue strips and proudly unveiled Sunday. We were able to capture a sweet moment as we had some of our veterans pose with our new flag.

2011-09-09T14:50:00.000-07:00

Today we took a delightful trip to Sweet Cheeks Vineyard, a beautiful estate located in the rolling hills outside of Eugene. We encountered an interesting start as while we were driving in the country roads,we discovered a "Road Closed" sign on the only road connecting to the vineyard. Lucky for us we have an adventurous bus driver and even more adventurous residents who trekked along the road in order to bring us to our destination. We were all able to taste a variety of wines, enjoy the sunshine, as well as enjoy a wonderful picnic lunch prepared for us by Chef Martin.

Zany Zoo Petting Zoo

2011-09-08T15:39:00.000-07:00

Zany Zoo is a local pet store that not only sells domestic animals, but also has a wide range of exotic animals! Some include alligators, Patagonian Caveys, Chinchillas, Possums, Skunks (de-scented!), Ferrets and more! They also offer a traveling petting zoo with all of these special and unique creatures! Here at Garden Way we were lucky enough to have them come and share with us! There was information given on each animal and then residents and guests were able to pet, hold or cuddle with the animal of their choice! Between the squawking of the birds, the excitement of the ferret and the sly spirit of the alligator everyone enjoyed their time!

I love my DUCKS...

2011-09-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

Here in Eugene a couple things go without saying...tye dye and Birkenstocks are always in style, one can order tofu and organic food at almost any local restaurant, we are home to the most beautiful hiking and walking trials in the country and everyone seems to love our Ducks! The University of Oregon is the home to the loudest and most spirited football fans in the nation. The cheers of fans can be heard all around town as home games are played at Autzen Stadium. At Garden Way we house some of the biggest Duck fans in town and of course had to celebrate the first game of the football season with a tailgater. Our Chefs made a wonderful spread of food including HOMEMADE chips, guacamole, salsa, spinach dip,taquitos as well as assorted veggies and fruits. The residents gathered in the movie theatre to eat snacks, play games and show their Duck spirit before the game started. Then enjoyed the game on our big screen TV. Enjoy some of our pictures and I think you will agree, everyone looks better in green and yellow!

Ice Cream Social and Corvette Club

2011-08-30T15:24:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday residents and friends of Garden Way enjoyed a trip to the past as we had and ice cream social and corvette car show! The afternoon started off with ice cream, and lots of it! Our wonderful Chef Martin and the kitchen crew prepared an ice cream sundae bar in which all attendees made their own sundaes with a variety of toppings. As guests ate this delicious treat they were accompanied by the fun and upbeat sounds of Hearts in Harmony, a local singing group. Hearts in Harmony sang songs from the 40s and 50s and passed out lyrics so everyone could sing along! As the music was winding down, the roars of engines could be heard zooming down the street! We were privileged to have The Emerald Valley Corvette Club came and displayed their timeless cars for everyone to enjoy!

Welcome new chef MARTIN HERNANDEZ

2011-08-29T13:48:00.000-07:00

Garden Way would like to welcome our new executive chef Martin Hernandez into the family! Martin has been the Sous Chef at Garden Way since our opening in October and has recently been promoted! We are delighted to have Martin's professionalism, creativity and talent in the kitchen! Some fun facts about Martin is that he loves country music and has a dog that he adores. The residents love Martin's first class cooking, and not to mention his delicious baked treats as well.

We are the Champions...

2011-08-24T16:39:00.000-07:00

This afternoon we went over to Valley West Health Center to play in a Wii Bowling tournament. Each resident played as an individual and at the end of the 2 matches all of the scores of the residents from the same community were added together. Marge, Jo, Virgina and Rene played to represent Garden Way. After two matches the combination of our residents scores added together was 1268 beating out Valley Wests residents score of 1096. Our residents played hard and all their hard work paid off!! We were rewarded a trophy to acknowledge our victory!!

Rene, Virgina, Jo, Marge and Laurel celebrating our win!

New Resident Party

2011-08-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

With all of the new residents moving in over the past couple of months, we decided to have a WELCOME party for all of our new friends here at Garden Way. Residents new and seasoned met in the dining room and shared coffee and pastries and each had the opportunity to tell a little about themselves, where they come from and hobbies and activities they enjoy. As the residents chatted, they were able to see all the interests that they shared. Everyone enjoyed getting to know each other and building connections with their new family members.

2011-08-19T16:29:00.000-07:00

Today was a beautiful summer day here in Eugene! We loaded up our bus and set out for an adventure. This week our trip was to Camp Putt Miniature Golf where we played 18 holes through rocks, waterfalls and caves. We then walked down the street to Roaring Rapids Pizza Company where we enjoyed huge pizzas, tasty salads,cold drinks and lots of fun conversation! The sun, the view of the river from Roaring Rapids and the company made for a very enjoyable afternoon!

All is fair in LOVE, WAR and BEAN BAG

2011-08-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

As Jody, one of our loyal bean bag baseball players always says, "All is fair in Love, War and Bean Bag Baseball". Bean bag baseball is a resident favorite here at Garden Way. The game is a test of balance, strength and a little bit of luck. It is played by the residents throwing bean bags at a bean bag toss and then depending on which hole they make it into, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, HOME RUN, or out determines which bas the residents go to. A line of chairs is in place to represent 1st, 2nd and 3rd and the residents rotate through the chairs as more runs are made. From there, basic base ball rules apply. Two teams play each other rotating through the innings and after almost an hour of play which ever team has the most points wins. Our games get competitive but all the residents have a good time cheering, making jokes and teasing each other over the score of the game.

Betty Lou throws a HOME RUN

Kathryn aims for the board

Marge tosses as other residents cheer her on

Jody concentrates with her tounge out of her mouth for focus

Larry, our newest resident, trying bean bag baseball

Ruth, Kathryn, Betty-Lou, Jody, Rene, Larry and Marge celebrate after a finished game

2011-08-16T08:39:00.000-07:00

One of the many daily activites we have here at Garden Way is Wii Bowling. Wii Bowling is a Wii game in which a residents balance, focus and aim is tested. Each week we break into two teams and have a Wii bowling competition. There are more strikes and spares seen here then another other bowling ally in town. Currently, our score to beat is 265 and was bowled by Betty-Lou (below) just last Thursday! All of the residents enjoy this game and have continued to improve has they play more and more.

2011-08-11T09:59:00.000-07:00

Staff calls them the “Giggle Girls”, they refer to themselves as the “Trouble Makers”, whatever you call them, one thing is for certain, Betty-Lou, Jody, Rene, Anne and Ruth are the picture of true friendship. The five ladies all met at a previous retirement community but once they came to tour Garden Way they knew they would have to move here, and move here together. The five friends can often be found playing cards after lunch, laughing as they read e-mails in the dining room, or playing beanbag baseball with the rest of the community. This group of ladies is joyful to be around and despite being the best of friends, they always have time to meet new residents, show them around and invite them to a variety of the activities we have taking place. The Giggle Girls have multiple stories and jokes together and Jody has even written a book bout about the adventures they have experienced through their years of friendship.

Move Ins Move Ins Everywhere...

2011-08-10T08:43:00.000-07:00

Garden Way opened it's doors October of 2010. Since then our family has grown and we are always very excited to invite new people into that family. Over the past 90 days there has been a plethora of new faces around our community. We would like to take a moment to recognize each of those residents and say WELCOME to the Garden Way Family!

Harold and Mary M
Robert and Merle R
Jane R
Burt and Kappy E
Roberta S
Virgil and Marie A
Bill M
Herman K
Jack H
Larry T
Sandra M
Betty R
Kathleen E
James and Margery F
Irene G
Lena K
Marlene M
Ron S

We are so happy to have each of these new residents and are excited to see our community at Garden Way continue to flourish.

Meet Cindy O'Brien

2011-08-08T15:34:00.000-07:00

Cindy is one of our wellness professionals here at Garden Way. She is passionate about helping people over 40yrs old achieve their goals of health and energy. Her talent is assessing and partnering with her clients to produce an exercise program that is fun, customized, and gets results quickly without pain.

Cindy also has special training in Arthritis and Osteopenia/Osteoporosis. She is adamant about teaching technically safe, effective and scientifically proven movements that help reduce pain & stiffness, and help stabilize or improve bone & muscle strength.

Cindy's exercise guidelines come from the Arthritis Foundation, National Osteoporosis Foundation, International Osteoporosis Foundation, Oregon State University Bone Research Lab, and Osteoporosis Canada.

We had the amazing opportunity today to have Cindy come and give a presentation "Better Bones, Better Body", in which she spoke about Osteoporosis and its symptoms, and what seniors can do to reduce these effects.

Each Thursday at 9:30am Cindy teaches a fitness class "Strong Bones, Strong Body" to help build strong bones and prevent falls, bone breaks and soreness. This class is free to residents and $2 for non-residents.

Grilling with Chef Dustin

2011-08-05T08:34:00.000-07:00

The past two Thursday nights, our wonderful Garden Way Chef Dustin Kurth and Sous Chef Martin Hernandez, have partnered with Willamalane Senior Center to host a cooking class here at our community. The group of Willamalane seniors, as well as our own residents were able to enjoy the sights, smells and tastes of Chef Dustin's cooking. All of the meal was prepared on the grill which made for a delightful summer meal with little clean up. On the menu? Pork Loin and Tuna Steaks assorted with a variety of vegetables and even fruits prepared over the open fire.

Chef Dustin and Sous Chef Martin teaching the folks from Willamalane Senior Center

Chef Dustin lights the BBQ for our feast

Chef Dustin and Sous Chef Martin explain how to make meal in minutes on the BBQ

Rag Time with Randey

2011-08-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

Randey, a local pianist in town, comes to play for our residents once a month. Randey plays a variety of songs from different genres and generations. He also brings song lyrics so that residents can sing along as he plays. The sounds of the piano and voices fill the community and everyone had a wonderful time.

Next Step Recycling

2011-08-01T09:16:00.000-07:00

Next Step Recycling is a non-profit here in Eugene which provides individuals and groups the opportunity to learn about the impact electronic waste has on our environment and to provide technology to those who do not have access. Next Step works to provide technology and training to children and adults who have barriers to employment and education, while protecting our environment and community from hazardous waste.

Once a month Next Step Recycling comes to Garden Way and we are able to partner with Next Step by helping to make jewelry and notebooks which are sold at the Next Step reuse store. Also, our residents earn volunteer hours which they may use towards reverberated computers and other electronics. Our residents are currently working on setting up a program in which their hours could be used to help seniors going back to school get computers.

Ascyna, from Next Step, explaining to our residents the activity for the day

Gerry cutting old folders to make new notebooks

Gerry, Ascyna and Marge having fun

Virgina working hard

Yoga with Christiana

2011-07-27T12:40:00.000-07:00

Meet Christiana...

She is one of the newest members to our wellness team here at Garden Way! Christiana teaches a Chair Yoga class for us every Tuesday morning.

All of us, unless we remain highly active, become less flexible and limber with age. Chair yoga classes have been designed to allow seniors to remain upright, and in their comfort zone without needing to move down to the floor and back up, repeatedly. Traditional poses are modified so that they may be accomplished for the benefit of the practitioner, while remaining seated.Social interaction in yoga classes is as beneficial to mental health as the poses themselves are for physical health. Seniors participating in yoga classes report that they are happier, overall, and have a higher sense of well-being. They also have more self-confidence, as they regain strength and flexibility. Other physical health benefits include increased circulation, and better ability to sleep.

Here are just a few pictures of our ladies at Garden Way participating in Chair Yoga and having a wonderful time!

Lunch with the Queen

2011-07-26T08:58:00.000-07:00

It is not everyday that one gets to dine with a Queen... But yesterday at Garden Way that became a reality. Lauren Remington, the Queen of the Red Hat Society came to eat lunch with one of our residents, Cynthia. She also brought along a member of her Red Hat Group, Joy. Lauren and Joy were here to talk about starting a chapter of the Red Hat Society here at Garden Way! We are very excited to have a group start here, and look forward to experiencing the joy and laughter it will bring!

Garden Way Open

2011-07-18T10:32:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, the rooms and halls of Garden Way were transformed into a miniature golf course. There were 5 different holes in all, and each hole had a different theme starting with a tunnel to shoot through, balloons and books to manoeuvre around, a swap to get around and ended with a hole in one competition. The residents played in teams of 4 there were prizes given for both individual and team winners. Everyone who played had a wonderful time!

Our Garden Way Open winner, Kathryn sets up for a shot.

Bill strikes through the balloons.

Renee and Jeff pose with Irv, our golf instructor

The winning ladies!! Irene, Margret, Marge, Cynthia

Jody with her hole in one ball!

Girl Scout Fun!

2011-07-11T14:47:00.000-07:00

Last week, we were so excited to welcome a group of Girl Scouts into Garden Way. These precious girls came to plant flowers and decorate flower pots with our residents. They then stayed for an ice cream social and finished off the afternoon receiving a tour from our very own Virgina. Everyone had a lovely time!

Gweneth and a Girl Scout with their plant

Group Hug with Virgina

Kathryn and the girls with their finished pots

2011-07-06T15:16:00.000-07:00

This 4th of July we celebrated with style here at Garden Way! Not only did we have carnival games, snow cones, cotton candy, popcorn and wonderful BBQ food, but ELVIS himself stopped by for a performance!

I could try and write about all the excitment that happened here on the 4th of July, but as they say "a picture is worth a thousand words", so enjoying looking at all the festivities!

Jo enjoying her cotton candy

Kay and Geroge with Elvis

Irene steals a kiss from the king

Renee and Jeff eatign with Uncle Sam

Bobbi eating a snow cone

Virgina throwing at the dunk

Uncle Same with Cynthia

Happy Birthday Sunshine

2011-07-01T13:42:00.000-07:00

Today marks the ONE YEAR anniversary for Sunshine Retirement Living and we were excited to celebrate that at Garden Way. Balloons lined the ceiling of the dining room as residents came down for a festive lunch. One of our residents, Betty Rust played "You are my Sunshine" on the piano as the residents sang along. Sous Chef Martin made a wonderful cake that the residents enjoyed after lunch.

Puzzle Time

2011-06-22T16:22:00.000-07:00

Every afternoon, Marge and Margaret go up to our Sports Lounge and work on a puzzle. The past few weeks they have been working on a beautiful picture of flowers. They really enjoy the chatting and laughing as they build their artwork. The other night they told me they were up until almost 11:00pm working hard so they could finish their puzzle. This morning they excitedly ran up to me because they had finally finished! I knew that I needed to take a picture to document their finished master piece.

Nice work ladies!!!!

Placing in the LAST PUZZLE PIECE

Finished Puzzle

ALOHA!

2011-06-13T13:09:00.000-07:00

Jo Collins teaching Laurel the hula

Bob learning to make a lei

This past Saturday, all the residents got out their Hawaiian shirts and flip flops and enjoyed a Luau full of Hawaiian food and festivities. The University of Oregon Hawaiian club was kind enough to come to our community to help our residents make Leis and teach us about Hawaiian culture. We then enjoyed an afternoon of pulled pork, Hawaiian burgers, macaroni salad, pineapple upside down cake and even coconut ice cream! While everyone ate and enjoyed their meals, Brook Adams, played the ukulele and sang Hawaiian tunes. Everyone had a wonderful time, and Jo Collins even showed off her hula dancing skills.

Ruth and Bill enjoying the day

Here Comes The Sun...

2011-06-09T11:28:00.000-07:00

The sun is finally out and shining here in Eugene Oregon. Sun in Oregon means so many wonderful events will be happening... bikers, walkers and runners come out along with beautiful flowers and gardens finally start to come into bloom. A few weeks ago we planted some starters into our new garden beds and since then it has been fun to see them grow. We are anxiously awaiting when we will be able to eat the yummy vegetables that we have planted. Here are some pictures of what our garden beds currently look like!

Garden Way's Lettuce

Flowers planted by our residents

Our very first strawberry starting to bloom

B-I-N-G-O

2011-06-03T09:18:00.000-07:00

Mondays and Thursdays we have our weekly Bingo games in the Ice Cream Parlor. This past Thursday, we had a fun crowd with Jeff, Renee, Marge, Dorthy, Jeri and Kathryn playing! The unusual thing about our Bingo that day was that Jeff, Renee and Dorothy all yelled "BINGO" at the same time for our final Blackout Round. B5 was the lucky number that caused all three of the residents to tie for the win and spilt the jackpot! It was definitely a memorable game!

Dorothy, Jeri and Marge

Jeff, Renee and Kathryn

Memorial Day Celebration

2011-05-31T15:45:00.000-07:00

On Monday, we had a wonderful time honoring all those who have died while serving for our great nation. The morning started off with a color guard ceremony presented by the Willamette Leadership Academy. We then enjoyed a yummy buffet lunch made by our talented Chef which was followed by a presentation given by the Rosie the Riveters group located here in Eugene. They spoke about their involvement during World War II and how they shaped the women's movement. The day was filled with lots of laughter, full bellies, and appreciation for the brave men and women who serve Our Country.

Linn County Historical Muesum

2011-05-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

We traveled to The Linn County Historical Museum which is located in historic Brownsville, Oregon. Housed in Brownsville's original railroad depot, the museum holds collections and information representing all of Linn County.We saw a variety of "old time" barber shops, grocery store, doctors office, movie theater and more! We ended our trip at Jody's grandaughters house for lunch and a scenic drive home.