Month: November 2024

December Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue: Christmas In The Woods Holiday Celebration!

Christmas in the Woods is more than just an event it is a celebration of community and togetherness. It’s a chance to gather with loved ones, make new friends, and share in the joy of the season. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, Christmas in the Woods is sure to create lasting memories. Mark your calendar for Thursday, December 12.

Also, in this issue we discuss all that the month pf December brings – reflection, anticipation and keeping healthy habits! There’s a special section with Christmas memories and even a family recipe passed down through generations!

December STARS Employees of the Month announced – Jacob and Tyrone!

December Wellness Events

This month Trinity Woods’ residents and their families can not only experience Christmas in the Woods but we are excited to host a Christmas Piano Concert with Don Irwin. Chaplain Tisdale as organized two special services for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, that you will not want to miss. There’s always so much to do in the Trinity Woods neighborhood!

New Neighbors
Meet Charlene, Gene and Barbara, and Carolyn!

Download the December issue of The Trail Mix.

Staying Healthy During the Holiday Eating Season!

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By Alison McMillan, Manager Spann Wellness

With the holidays just around the corner, we likely have a lot on our minds. Social engagements, quality time with friends and family, delicious foods, as well as increased stress, increasingly busy schedules, and the worries of falling off the wagon. Worry not! There are ways to stay on track through it all and avoid the holiday gain:

Practice Mindful Eating Habits: Whether its eating slower, choosing smaller portions, eating until only 80% full, or removing distractions during meal time, you can find ways to not overindulge this holiday season.

Select Healthier Recipes: Did you know that you can make small changes to your recipes to make them
healthier? Use low/no calorie sweeteners, low/no fat dairy products, and research tips for adding protein to recipes to increase your protein intake. Speaking of, check out the High Protein Chicken Pot Pie recipe.

Track your progress with the Senior Fitness Test: The Senior Fitness Test is a series of seven tests that check your balance, strength, flexibility, endurance, speed, and agility. Your results can be compared to norms of others in your age and gender demographic to see where you’re at and used to set goals for where you’d like to be.

Take the Maintain Don’t Gain Challenge: With the goal of helping you stay motivated to keep active and take charge of your health this holiday season, Trinity Woods is again hosting its annual Maintain Don’t Gain challenge! Spanning from mid-November to the beginning of January, this challenge is a great way to stay motivated to keep your healthy habits.

Maintaining healthy eating habits during the holidays doesn’t have to be difficult. By planning ahead, practicing moderation, and being mindful of your choices, you can enjoy the festivities without compromising your health. Focus on balance, indulge thoughtfully, and stay active to make the most of the holiday season while feeling your best.

ThanksGIVING

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By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain
Psalm 107:1 Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever.

Thanksgiving, with its roots deeply embedded in gratitude and the celebration of harvests, has evolved into a quintessential American holiday marked by family gatherings, hearty feasts, and reflections on what we’re thankful for. It’s a time to pause and appreciate the good things in life, big and small.

But beyond the turkey and the pie, there’s a significant aspect of Thanksgiving that often gets overlooked: the joy of giving back. The spirit of the holiday is not just about receiving but about extending a hand to those in need and spreading goodwill.

Giving back can take many forms. Volunteering at local shelters, donating to food banks, or simply reaching out to a lonely neighbor can make a world of difference. It’s about fostering a sense of community and understanding that our collective wellbeing depends on how we support and care for one another.

In recent years, the concept of “ThanksGIVING” has gained popularity, encouraging people to spend the day helping others. Families, instead of just gathering around the table, are now also gathering to make sandwiches for the homeless, organizing fundraisers, or participating in charity runs.

The joy derived from giving back is profound. It creates a ripple effect of kindness and compassion. It reminds us that, despite the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, we are all connected.

Acts of generosity, no matter how small, can leave a lasting impact on someone’s life, and in turn, enrich our own.

At Trinity Woods, we all have an opportunity to be a part of ThanksGIVING by donating to the TW Feeding Families food drive. The Feeding Families Committee food drive started in May 2023. All food donated by members goes to Restore Hope, a United Methodist affiliated ministry which distributes
the food to residents of Tulsa County only. As of October 1, 2024, Trinity Woods has collected 3,144 pounds of food to help families in Tulsa County.

So this Thanksgiving, let’s embrace the true essence of the holiday. Let’s give thanks, but also give back. Because in giving, we often receive far more in return. “Happy ThanksGIVING!”

Author Missy Buchanan to Speak on Grief and Healing: “Feeling Your Way Through Grief”

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By Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement

Missy Buchanan, beloved author and advocate for older adults, is set to visit Trinity Woods on December 3, 2024. She will discuss her latest book, Feeling Your Way Through Grief. Known for her candid reflections on aging and spirituality, Buchanan’s newest release takes a compassionate look at the grieving process, offering readers a thoughtful guide through one of life’s most difficult journeys.

“We are so excited to be partnering with the Oklahoma Conference UMC for this very special event,” said Garrett Lee, Trinity Woods, CEO. “This book offers a roadmap for those navigating the emotional landscape that follows the death of a loved one. Missy combines personal stories, reflections, and spiritual insights, creating a comforting resource for real healing. We are truly honored to be able to host this event.”

Buchanan, who became a prominent voice on spirituality and aging through works such as Living with Purpose in a Worn-Out Body and Voices of Aging, turns her attention to the universal experience of grief with this book. Drawing from her own experiences and years of walking alongside grieving individuals, she brings a message of understanding and encouragement to those who feel isolated or overwhelmed in their loss.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear Buchanan’s insights firsthand and engage in a meaningful discussion about their own experiences with grief, whether they are currently mourning or supporting someone who is. Missy Buchanan’s words resonate deeply with those who appreciate her gentle, honest approach to difficult subjects. Her talk promises to be a powerful and healing event for anyone seeking solace in their grief, as well as for those looking to support friends or family who are grieving.

Don’t miss this chance to hear from Missy Buchanan as she shares her wisdom on grief, healing, and the hope that can emerge even in the midst of sorrow. Space is limited. To register call Katlyn, Oklahoma United Methodist Conference, at 405-530-2019.

November STARS Employee of the Month

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Rhoda Robinson, CNA – Health Center

Start Date: March 2019
Born: Tulsa, OK
Raised: Porter, OK
Education: TulsaTech
Wanted to be as a Kid: Dance Coordinator
One Meal Forever: Anything Seafood
Described by Friends: Strong, Independent and Kind
First Job: Luby’s Cafeteria
Favorite Holiday: New Year’s Day
Favorite Quote or Bible Verse: “do to others what you would have them do to you” – Matthew 7:12
Family Recipe: Grandma’s Cornbread Dressing
Favorite Movie: The Color Purple
Favorite Book: The Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyers
Collects: Antiques
Free Time: Riding my Bike
Fun Fact: Loves the Water but Cannot Swim
What her supervisor says: “Rhoda shows extreme dedication to our elders, always with a bright shining
smile. Our elders love her, and we are lucky to have her on our team.” – Rachel Shepherd, Household Manager

November STARS Employee of the Month

Posted on by Heidi Garrett

Dwayne Crawley, Housekeeping Team

Start Date: April 2024
Born: Mississippi
Raised: Tulsa, OK
Education: McClain High School and Newburgh Seminary
Wanted to be as a Kid: Radio DJ
Favorite Sport: Loves to Watch Wrestling and Boxing
One Meal Forever: Hamburger
Described by Friends: Joyful
Hobbies: Reading, Music and Movies
First Job: Bus Boy at the Camelot Hotel
Favorite Holiday: Mother’s Day
Favorite Quote: “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.”
Family Recipe: Red Beans and Rice
Collects: Prince Albums
Fun Fact: He was an award nominated country music DJ for eight years.
What his supervisor says: “Dwayne always has a kind word to say, a hand to help and a big smile for
everyone. His work ethic and dedication to his job speaks for itself. We all need a Dwayne on our
team!” – Cathy Green, Housekeeping Manager

November Issue of The Trail Mix

Posted on by Bonnie Polak

In This Issue: Author Missy Buchanan to Visit Trinity Woods

Trinity Woods is excited to announce Missy Buchanan, beloved author and advocate for older adults, will visit campus on December 3, 2024. She will discuss her latest book, Feeling Your Way Through Grief. Known for her candid reflections on aging and spirituality, Buchanan’s newest release takes a compassionate look at the grieving process, offering readers a thoughtful guide through one of life’s most difficult journeys.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear Buchanan’s insights firsthand and engage in a
meaningful discussion about their own experiences with grief, whether they are currently
mourning or supporting someone who is. Missy Buchanan’s words resonate deeply with
those who appreciate her gentle, honest approach to diffi cult subjects. Her talk promises to
be a powerful and healing event for anyone seeking solace in their grief, as well as for those
looking to support friends or family who are grieving. Space is limited. To register call Katlyn, Oklahoma United Methodist Conference, at 405-530-2019.

Also in this issue we highlight the joy of being thankful and giving back. There’s a special article about Leonard Stuff and his Honor Flight experience. The Annual Trinity Woods Veteran’s Day Celebration is announced!

November STAR Employees of the Month announced – Dwayne and Rhoda!

November Wellness Events

This month is Trinity Woods members can experience an Autumn Immersions trip to the Keystone Ancient Forest, a Book Review of Oklahoma, How We Got the Best State Song, and a Thanksgiving new member welcome event! There’s always so much to do in the Trinity Woods neighborhood!

New Neighbors
Meet Nancy, Ed and Leslie, and Alan and Cathy!

Download the November issue of The Trail Mix

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