We are delighted to welcome Angela Kihega as the new Director of Nursing at Trinity Woods. With
more than 30 years of healthcare experience and a passion to serve, Angela brings a wealth of
knowledge, leadership, and heart to our community.

Angela’s journey in healthcare began as a nurse aide and medical assistant before earning her nursing degrees – first becoming an LPN in 2002 and then an RN in 2003. Her clinical background is both broad and deep, spanning Adult and Geriatric Medicine, Medical/Surgical/Trauma, Oncology, and Hospice/Pain Management. For more than 15 years, she has served in nursing leadership roles, guiding teams with a philosophy rooted in dignity, respect, compassion, and meaningful connection.

“Nursing isn’t just my profession—it’s my calling,” Angela shares, a belief that aligns beautifully with the mission and values of Trinity Woods. She looks forward to partnering with residents, families, and the TW team to continue providing exceptional care in an environment where each person feels seen and supported.

Outside of her professional life, Angela is a proud mother to two daughters, ages 22 and 28, who inspire her daily. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, collecting houseplants, hiking, fishing and boating, traveling, and cheering on her favorite football teams—go Chiefs and go Pokes!

Please join us in welcoming Angela to Trinity Woods. We are thrilled to have her leadership, expertise, and genuine care guiding our nursing team and supporting the residents and families we serve.

By Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement

The most magical time of the year is nearing, and with it comes one of Trinity Woods’ most beloved traditions – Christmas in the Woods! Soon, residents, families, and employees along with friends will gather for an evening filled with amazing food, festive music, warm fellowship, and the unmistakable joy of the season.

“Christmas in the Woods captures the spirit of who we are as a community-warm, connected, and full of gratitude. I’m looking forward to gathering with everyone to celebrate the season and the joy we share at Trinity Woods,” said Garrett Lee, Trinity Woods CEO.

This year’s celebration promises to deliver the charm and heart that make the event so special. Guests can enjoy a wide variety of entertainment and holiday activities throughout campus. This year we bring back some event favorites – Dave & the Ukeladies, a cheerful Candy Shop, playful Elfie Selfies, and an impressive Railroad Display by the Tulsa Garden Railroad Club. And don’t forget visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Both Charter Oak and Cypress Grille restaurants will feature a special holiday dinner menu, offering a festive feast for residents and guests. The menu includes Lobster Bisque, Carved Prime Rib, Carved Ham, Roasted Potatoes, and Green Beans with Red Bell Peppers-a delicious way to spend the evening. Traditional carolers from the Tulsa Opera will fill both dining venues with festive melodies, adding to the joyful ambiance.

The Community Life Center will be alive with music and nostalgia, featuring a Christmas concert by the Grady Nichols Band. Guests will not want to miss curated displays of Christmas Treasures and specialty trees, and a display of Childhood Toys. New this year we have the golf cart tours of Owens Park and the TW Community Tree featuring ornaments given and made by our very own residents and employees.

As the holiday season approaches, Christmas in the Woods will once again bring the shared sense
of community Trinity Woods has become known for over the years. With music, lights, tradition,
and holiday spirit woven throughout the evening, Christmas in the Woods celebrates the joy,
wonder, and memories for years to come. Make sure to get your tickets now, while supplies last!

By Carol Tobler, Grateful Soul

Gratitude, on some level, has been a part of my life since my parents and church began teaching me as a small child. It was important to say “thank you” and to thank God for my many blessings. Scientific studies have taught us gratitude’s positive effects on our physical and psychological health: better sleep,
mental strength and empathy. It can reduce negative emotions and is an overlooked tool during difficult times.

I recently had an experience that reminded me of the power of gratitude. I lost my husband earlier this year after a long illness and I was ready for some family time on a 24/7 basis. I flew to Houston to spend a week with my daughter and her family and it was a wonderful time. On the plane trip going home, my mind started questioning if being back home would be too quiet or lonely for me.

Arriving back in Tulsa, just as I exited the airport, I saw Cliff (TW Transportation) pulling up to drive me back to Trinity Woods. My thoughts suddenly went back to the times Cliff had driven Ken for chemo treatments during Covid. I felt my anxiety slowly going away. As I was unlocking my front door, I
noticed a beautiful pot of mums sitting there as an expression of someone else’s gratitude. In the following days, I was receiving calls and texts from Trinity Woods members asking about my trip and welcoming me home. Others were extending invitations for lunch or some activity. It seemed that someone was reaching out every day and the quiet and loneliness were not insurmountable.

I’m still on my journey of healing from a great loss but I’m just where I need to be. Practicing gratitude is a daily must for this journey and I hope to reach new levels. The Trinity Woods’ staff and members are a caring and supportive community that are meeting my needs. I’m very grateful!

By: Amber Carson, MS, RD, LD – Trinity Woods Dietician

Winter holidays are full of festive feasts, but with a few smart swaps, you can enjoy the season without overindulging. Here’s a cheerful “Eat This, Not That” guide to help you stay energized and balanced through the holidays.

Eat This! – Veggie Tray with Hummus
Not That! – Cheese Cubes & Creamy Dips
Why? – Lower in saturated fat and calories

Eat This! – Fruit Salad or Baked Apples
Not That! – Pie With Whipped Cream
Why? – Natural Sweetness, Fewer Empty Carbs

Eat This! – Roasted Turkey or Chicken
Not That! – Glazed Ham or Prime Rib
Why? – Leaner Protein, Less Sodium

Eat This! – Greek Yogurt Parfaits
Not That! – Eggnog or Heavy Cream Desserts
Why? – Protein-Rich, Lighter Indulgence

Eat This! – Cauliflower Mash
Not That! – Butter-Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Why? – Lower Carb, Creamy Texture

Eat This! – Light Mulled Wine
Not That! – Heavy Cocktails
Why? – Lower Alcohol and Sugar Content

Bonus Tips:
Use smaller plates to help with portion control.
Don’t skip meals – eat a balanced breakfast to avoid overdoing it later.
Focus on the company and conversation, not just the food.

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

November is a month that often invites us to slow down, gather around tables, and reflect on the many blessings God has given us. It is a time of year when our hearts are drawn toward gratitude, toward the goodness of God that sustains us, the faith that grounds us, the family that surrounds us, and the fellowship that strengthens us.

My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. However, it is not just a holiday; it is a spiritual posture to be adopted. True gratitude begins with faith; trusting that God is working for our good even when the path is not clear. Hebrews 11:1 reminds us, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

When we live by faith, gratitude flows naturally. We begin to see God’s hand in the everyday moments—the sunrise that greets us, the strength to face another day, the joy of laughter, and the peace that passes all understanding.

Our families, whether by blood, by choice, or by faith, are precious gifts from God. In Ephesians 4:2–3, Paul encourages us to “be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Family gatherings in November remind us that love is patient, forgiveness is powerful, and unity is worth nurturing. Even when families are not perfect, God uses them to shape us, teach us grace, and remind us we are not alone.

During this season, may we pause not only to count our blessings but also to express them to God, to our families, and to one another. A grateful heart sees the fingerprints of God in every detail of life.

Let us trust Him with unwavering faith, love and cherish our families, and stay connected through fellowship with one another. For it is in these places that thankfulness grows and God’s presence shines brightly.

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed and thankful November.

Cake:
¾ Cup AP Flour
½ tsp Baking Soda
½ tsp. Baking Powder
½ tsp. Ground Cinnamon
½ tsp. Pumpkin Pie Spice
¼ tsp. Salt
3 Large Eggs
1 Cup Granulated Sugar
2/3 Cup Canned Pumpkin
1 Cup Chopped Walnuts (Optional)
Powdered Sugar

Filling:
8 oz. Package of Cream Cheese
1 Cup Sifted Powdered Sugar
6 Tbsp. Butter, Softened
1 tsp. Vanilla Extract

Instructions:
For cake: Pre-heat oven to 375˚F. Grease 15”x10” jelly-roll pan, line with parchment paper; grease and flour paper. Sprinkle a thin, cotton kitchen towel with powdered sugar.
*Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice and salt in a small bowl.
*Beat eggs and sugar in a large mixing bowl until thick. Beat in pumpkin. Stir in flour mixture.
*Spread evenly in prepared pan, sprinkle with nuts.
*Bake 13-15 minutes or until top of cake springs back when touched.

For Filling: Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
*Once cake is done, immediately loosen cake and turn it onto the prepared towel.
*Carefully peel off paper. Roll up cake and towel together, starting with the narrow end. Cool on wire rack.
*Carefully unroll the cooled cake, remove the towel. Spread the filling evenly over the cake. Reroll the cake and wrap it in plastic wrap. Place in refrigerator for at least one hour.
*Before serving, remove plastic wrap, sprinkle with powdered sugar, slice and enjoy.

National Estate Planning Awareness Week is here! It’s a reminder about drawing up the most important
document of your life: An estate plan that protects your interests and your loved ones.

It’s never too early to give yourself peace of mind by ensuring a thoughtful estate plan is in place. An estate plan can include a will or a trust, or both. It can detail beneficiary designations, like those you created for your bank account, retirement account, or life insurance. And it should include powers
of attorney for your finances and your healthcare decisions; in the event you become incapacitated. An estate plan is also a smart way to shape your legacy and support the causes you love, like Trinity Woods. You can make a gift directly from your will or explore other planned gift options that may be a better
fit for your situation. You can even make your gift in honor or in memory of a loved one.

With a simple plan to secure your legacy, you can make an incredible difference.

As a valued partner of our organization, there is a complimentary estate planning service available to you. To get started or update your estate plan, contact Bonnie Polak at 918-346-6639 to set up a time to
meet with our Legacy Office.

By Weldon Tisdale, VP of Wellness and Chaplain

As October paints our campus in warm hues of amber and gold, we’re reminded that change is not only inevitable, it’s beautiful. The falling leaves, the crisp air, and the shifting light all whisper a truth we know well: life moves in seasons. And in every season, especially those filled with transition, the power of positive thinking becomes a lifeline of faith, hope, and resilience.

Change can stir uncertainty. Change can trigger frustration. Whether it’s a new health journey, a shift in routine, or the bittersweet goodbye to a longtime spouse, friend or member, transitions often challenge our sense of stability. But Scripture reminds us that our foundation is not in circumstances but in
Christ. The prophet Isaiah writes, “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.” Isaiah 26:3 (NLT)

When our thoughts are fixed on God and anchored in His promises, we find peace that defies logic or as the Apostle Paul describes in Philippians 4:7, “…peace which surpasses all understanding…” Positive thinking, rooted in faith, helps us see beyond the moment and into the greater story God is writing.

Positive thinking isn’t about ignoring hardship; it’s about choosing joy in the midst of it. It’s the decision to say, “God is still good,” even when the path ahead is unclear. It’s the quiet strength that smiles at tomorrow because we know Who holds it.

For Trinity Woods residents, this might mean embracing new friendships, trying a new activity, or simply waking up with gratitude. For our staff, it’s the daily choice to serve in the spirit of Christ – with compassion, patience, and a heart full of grace.

At Trinity Woods, we are more than residents and staff, we are a family. And families walk through change together. Let’s continue to be a place where encouragement flows freely, where laughter
echoes through the corridors and halls, and where faith lights the way forward. Choose to eliminate all semblances of negative thoughts and words and choose to focus on “the goodness of God.”

As the leaves fall and the season turns, may we hold fast to the truth that God is with us in every change. His love never fades, His grace never fails, and His plans are always good.

By Bonnie Polak, VP of Philanthropy and Community Engagement

At Trinity Woods, we care for more than just health and housing—we care for each other. The Good Samaritan Fund ensures that residents who outlive their financial resources, through no fault of their own, can continue to live here with dignity, stability, and peace of mind.

“Life doesn’t always go according to plan,” said Garrett Lee, Trinity Woods CEO. “Unexpected medical costs, the loss of a spouse, or changes in the economy can quickly impact even the most carefully managed savings. That’s where the Good Samaritan Fund steps in—quietly and compassionately—to fill the gap.”

Donations given to the Good Samaritan Fund help residents in all areas of the campus – from Independent Living to the Health Center. We make a promise when people choose Trinity Woods, that we will take care of them for the rest of their lives, and this Fund allows that to be possible. This year YOU helped 24 different residents throughout the community, totaling approximately $33,000 a month, with donations given to the Good Samaritan Fund. Remember; those gifts not only bless the residents,
but their families as well.

When you give, you ensure that no Trinity Woods neighbor is asked to leave because of circumstances beyond their control. You’re not just offering financial help, you’re preserving community, stability, and a sense of belonging. Whether your gift is large or small, its impact is profound. It’s a promise that we take care of our own. One day, it could be you—or someone you love—who benefits from that promise.
This Fund has become one of the most urgent and critical areas of need for the people living at Trinity Woods. As you prayerfully consider a gift, think about making it as an honorarium or memorial to someone who is special to you. With a gift of $300 you will receive a commemorative “brick” that will be engraved as you choose and placed in front of the Community Life Center on the Trinity Woods campus.

Please support the Good Samaritan Fund with a gift because everyone deserves to age with dignity, in a place they call home.

Feeling Good, Living Well, Laughing Often
By Lupina Fry, Wellness Nurse

Who says getting older can’t be fabulous? September is Healthy Aging Month, the perfect time to shake things up, try something new, and celebrate the amazing perks of life experience. (Wisdom, great stories, and knowing where all the good snacks are!)

Healthy aging isn’t about counting wrinkles—it’s about counting moments that make you feel alive. Science says it’s never too late to start new habits that boost your health and happiness, and we say it’s never too late to have some fun along the way.

While Healthy Aging Month started as a way to focus attention on heart health and dietary changes in the early 1990’s, it now highlights the positive aspects of growing older and encourages people to take proactive steps to improve their overall health as they age.

This year Healthy Aging Month’s theme is “Never Too Late to Reinvent Yourself”. It emphasizes that it’s never too late to make positive changes that can redefine the next chapter in your life, including staying active, maintaining independence and focusing on the joys of life.

Your Healthy Aging Starter Kit:
Move Your Body: Dance in your kitchen, stroll with friends, or join a morning yoga class.
Eat the Rainbow: And yes, sprinkles on your yogurt totally count
Flex Your Brain: Learn something new – crosswords, cooking, or even ukulele
Find Your People: Laughter + good company = instant mood lift.

So let’s make September the month we dance more, laugh harder, and live even better. Here’s to aging like fine wine – getting bolder, brighter and better with time!

Here are some simple, approachable tips for nurturing spiritual wellness—whether someone is deeply religious, curious, or simply looking for more meaning and peace in their day-to-day life:

Practice Gratitude Daily: Take a moment each morning or evening to reflect on what you’re thankful for — it helps cultivate a positive outlook.

Spend Time in Nature: A walk outside, sitting in a garden, or even watching the sunrise can restore calm and foster a sense of connection.

Engage in Reflection or Meditation: Whether through prayer, journaling, or mindfulness, creating quiet moments encourages clarity and peace.

Connect with Community: Spirituality often grows when shared—join a group, attend services, or simply engage in meaningful conversations.

Acts of Kindness: Helping others or practicing compassion can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Explore Meaningful Texts or Music: Reading spiritual writings, listening to uplifting music, or exploring poetry can inspire and deepen reflection.

Live with Intention: Set value-based goals and align daily actions with what matters most to you—this strengthens purpose and integrity.

Spiritual wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s about finding practices that bring peace, connection, and meaning to your life.

We are excited to extend an invitation to community members and friends to the Annual Trinity Woods Health & Wellness Fair! Come learn about offerings on campus and what is available from the surrounding community. The Annual Health & Wellness Fair will be held on Thursday, September 18th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Community Life Center.

The Trinity Woods Wellness Team takes pride in providing members, family, and employees with opportunities to improve general health and wellness through the promotion of the seven dimensions of wellness. We feel that the Health & Wellness Fair plays a role in helping the community achieve whole person wellness.

We’ve invited back several of our regular vendors and neighbors such as NewView Oklahoma, Tulsa PAC and Senior Helpers. Several new vendors, such as 2B Organized, Xpress Wellness, Photo Solutions Forever and others, have also reserved space. We’ll also offer a wonderful, healthy buffet and give away multiple door prizes throughout the day. Make sure you mark the date on your calendar – you don’t want to miss it!

We are excited to host this annual event and look forward to seeing you!