By Bonnie Polak, VP Philanthropy and Community Engagement

Growing older is inevitable but it is also a privilege. Each birthday represents another year of experiences, relationships, lessons and memories. But while aging adds wisdom to our lives, it does not require us to leave wonder behind.

Inside each of us lives a younger self — the child who asked endless questions, laughed without checking the volume and found adventure in an ordinary afternoon. As adults, responsibilities can crowd out that playful spirit. We become focused on schedules and expectations, leaving little room for joy and curiosity.

Yet keeping our inner child alive is an important part of emotional wellness. Emotional wellness is not about feeling happy all the time. It is the ability to understand and express our feelings, adapt to life’s changes, cope with challenges and remain connected to the things that give us meaning.

“Emotional wellness grows when we give ourselves permission to experience joy, stay curious and connect with others. When we keep a playful spirit, it helps us embrace each season of life with gratitude and hope,” said Weldon Tisdale, VP of Wellness and Chaplain.

Playing and being curious gives the mind permission to rest, encourages creativity and helps reduce the weight of everyday worries. Shared laughter strengthens relationships, while curiosity keeps us open to new experiences. These moments remind us that life is not simply a list of tasks to complete.

Reconnecting with your inner child might mean dancing in the kitchen, blowing bubbles, drawing without worrying whether the result is “good,” rereading a favorite childhood book or spending time outdoors simply to explore. It can also mean offering yourself kindness: patience after a mistake, reassurance when you feel overwhelmed and permission to try again.

Ask yourself: What made me feel most alive as a child? What have I stopped doing because I thought I had outgrown it? Then welcome one small piece of that joy back.

Aging is a gift. Growing older while remaining curious, creative and young at heart may be one of the best ways to honor this very special gift

Enjoy a fall favorite from the kitchen of our very own Richard Applegate, Trinity Woods Director of Dining Services. This roasted butternut squash and apple soup is one of Chef Richard’s seasonal favorites—perfect for a fall day!

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash- peeled, seeded and cubed in 1-inch pieces

• 1 large Granny Smith Apple- peeled, cored and chopped

• 1 medium yellow onion- diced

• 3 cloves garlic- minced

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh sage- finally chopped

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 3 cups low sodium chicken broth

• ½ cup heavy whipping cream (or full fat coconut milk)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Toasted pumpkin seeds for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400*

2. Toss squash, apple, and onion with half of the olive oil. Lightly season with salt and pepper. Spread out on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes until the squash is tender.

3. Heat remaining olive oil in a Dutch oven or soup pot add garlic, chopped sage, and nutmeg sauté for about a minute until aromatic.

4. Add the roasted squash, onion and apple to the pot. Pour in broth and bring to a hard simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Turn off the heat and blend until smooth, whisk in cream and turn heat back on low for 4 minutes, salt and pepper to taste.

6. Top bowl of soup with toasted pumpkin seeds.

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

As September arrives, the warmth of summer gradually gives way to cooler days, familiar routines return, and the changing season invites us to reflect on God’s faithfulness. Each new season offers an opportunity to grow not only in what we do, but also in how we love, serve, and care for one another.

At Trinity Woods, we are blessed to share more than a place to live and work. We share a community where friendships grow, lives intersect, and opportunities to extend God’s love are present each day. Often, it is through simple acts that Christ’s love becomes visible: a warm greeting in the hallway, an invitation to share a meal, a thoughtful phone call, a helping hand, or a quiet word of encouragement.

Scripture reminds us, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it” (Hebrews 13:2). Hospitality is more than opening a door or offering a seat at the table. It is opening our hearts. It is making room for another person’s story, joys, concerns, hopes, and needs. It is offering the assurance, “You are welcome here. You are seen. You are valued.”

Charity is also an expression of God’s love at work within us. We may give through financial resources, but we also give through our time, compassion, encouragement, and presence. Sometimes the greatest gift we can offer is simply to sit beside someone, listen attentively, or remind a neighbor that they are not alone.

These acts of love nurture our spiritual wellness and strengthen our entire community. When we practice kindness, generosity, and hospitality, we deepen our connection with one another and become more aware of God’s presence in our midst. In giving, we often discover that we are also receiving; receiving joy, purpose, gratitude, friendship, and grace.

The Apostle Paul writes, “Let all that you do be done in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14). May these words guide us throughout September and beyond.

Together, may we continue building a community where charity is generously shared, hospitality is warmly offered, spirituality is deeply nurtured, wellness is holistically embraced, and kindness is faithfully lived. In all that we do, may the love of Christ beseen, felt, and experienced through us as we each cultivate “The Ministry of a Welcoming Heart.”

By Lupina Fry, Wellness Nurse

While preparing for the 2026 Trinity Woods Health & Wellness Fair and working with the invited organizations, I realized that Trinity Woods, the Tulsa community, and Oklahoma are blessed to have so many valuable resources available to provide help and support. Folks just need to know what help they need and who to ask.

One of the best ways to track what may be lacking is by viewing daily life through the lens of wellness. By using the seven dimensions of wellness, a person can turn an overwhelming search for help into an organized, targeted checklist.

Focusing on PHYSICAL WELLNESS can help manage chronic illness, mobility challenges, and safety with activities of daily living. Resources like Medicare.gov can help you find home health services or medical equipment. Oklahoma Senior Games offers ways to stay physically active.

Assessing EMOTIONAL WELLNESS involves one’s ability to handle life changes and mental health issues such as a new diagnosis, grief, or depression. Resources like The Grief Center, the Mental Health Association of Oklahoma, and the Alzheimer’s Association can provide help.

SOCIAL WELLNESS involves maintaining a strong support group to combat isolation, which significantly impacts health. Resources include our Life Enrichment Coordinators at Trinity Woods, Life Senior Centers, and the local AARP Foundation, which runs programs that connect seniors with companion volunteers.

INTELLECTUAL WELLNESS encourages lifelong learning and curiosity, keeping the mind sharp. Tulsa City County libraries offer free access to large-print books, audiobooks, and computer classes. OU and OSU offer Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Zoom courses tailored to adults over 50.

SPIRITUAL WELLNESS centers on finding purpose, peace, and connection to something larger than oneself. Local churches often have senior ministries, and don’t forget practices such as prayer, meditation, yoga, and tai chi. Trinity Woods offers on- campus services and guidance from the Spiritual Life Council.

VOCATIONAL WELLNESS for seniors evolves from paid work into personal fulfillment through hobbies, mentoring, or volunteering. AmeriCorps Seniors is a government program matching older adults with volunteer opportunities. Several vendors at the Health & Wellness Fair, such as Reading Partners, will be seeking volunteers.

Finally, ENVIRONMENTAL WELLNESS focuses on one’s home and living environment, assessing modifications, home cleanup, and decluttering. Family Nest Estate Solutions will be at this year’s Fair to offer guidance and support.

By Bonnie Polak, VP Philanthropy and Community Engagement

At Trinity Woods, being a good neighbor is part of who we are.

What makes someone feel at home? Sometimes, it’s as simple as seeing a familiar face, being invited to join for dinner or knowing someone will notice when you need a helping hand.

At Trinity Woods, hospitality isn’t reserved for special occasions or welcoming new residents. It happens every day, in countless small ways, through a culture of neighbors caring for neighbors.

Our residents are at the heart of that culture. They check in on one another, offer rides or assistance, make introductions, save seats and invite others to participate. They celebrate birthdays and milestones, share meals and conversations, and show up for each other during difficult times. These gestures may seem small, but together they create something significant: a true sense of belonging.

That neighborly spirit also shapes the relationships between residents and Trinity Woods team members. Hospitality can be found in a team member remembering how someone takes their coffee, stopping for a conversation or noticing when a resident could use a little extra encouragement. And it goes both ways. Residents know our team members, ask about their families, celebrate their accomplishments and remind them that they are valued members of this community, too.

That is what makes hospitality at Trinity Woods special. It isn’t simply something we provide—it’s something we share. Every person who lives and works here has an opportunity to contribute to our neighborly culture. A smile, an invitation, a helping hand,
a few minutes spent listening: each is a simple act of hospitality that says, “You belong here.”

And perhaps that is the heart of being a good neighbor: making sure the people around us know they are seen, valued and never alone. At Trinity Woods, that’s more than hospitality. That’s community.

By Alison Guerrero, Fitness Professional

Life can be a real balancing act sometimes! We have to balance our checkbooks, ensure we make fair and balanced decisions, keep relationships in balance, watch that we eat a balanced diet, maintain a healthy work/life balance, and more. Noticing a pattern here? It’s “balance” – a huge part of our lives, especially as we age! Specifically, our physical ability to balance.

Balance is defined as one’s ability to remain in an upright and stable position. It is comprised of four systems that all must work in tandem to help keep you standing and walking tall. Each system is just as important as the others and impacts your overall balance, so building each system is valuable.

• MUSCULAR SYSTEM: Regular strength training as well as flexibility training, especially for the core and lower body, helps improve overall stability and endurance. It’s recommended to strength train two to three times a week for 20 to 30 minutes a session using free weights, weight machines, resistance bands, or body weight, and to stretch gently to the point of discomfort all areas of the body at least once a day.

• VESTIBULAR SYSTEM: Located in your inner ear. Certain head and body movement exercises, like head turns, head rolls, careful and safe spinning, etc, can help improve the vestibular system by helping the brain practice tolerating and interpreting the signals it gets from the vestibular system.

• VISUAL SYSTEM: Ensuring your environment is well lit and clean, especially at nighttime, is greatly helpful in supporting visual balance. On top of that, regular visits to your optometrist and practicing eye care and safety help keep your visual system in tip-top shape.

• SOMATOSENSORY SYSTEM: This is a fancy way of saying your body’s ability to feel and sense where you’re at in space. It can be strengthened by using, you guessed it, sensory exercises! Things like standing on uneven surfaces (like soft foam), intentional and focused body awareness exercises, and practicing feeling the environment around you can help support your somatosensory system.

As we age, like the rest of our body, these systems can weaken, which is why it’s so important to prioritize balance training in our everyday lives. That’s why Trinity Woods now offers four Better Balance educational exercise classes on a weekly basis! Remember, life’s all about balance, and today is as great a day as any to take charge and balance it out!

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

“This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)

As summer begins its gentle transition toward autumn, August invites us to slow down and appreciate the blessings that surround us. The days are still warm, the gardens are flourishing, and there is an opportunity to pause and reflect on God’s faithfulness.

Life often encourages us to focus on what comes next; the next event, the next appointment, or the next milestone. Yet Scripture reminds us that God’s greatest gifts are often found in the present moment. Every sunrise, every shared meal, every conversation with a neighbor, and every act of kindness offers an opportunity to experience His grace.

At Trinity Woods, we are blessed to live in a community where meaningful relationships flourish. Whether you participate in a wellness class, attend Bible study, volunteer, enjoy a concert, or simply stop to visit with a friend, you help create a place where everyone is known, valued, and encouraged. Community is built not only through special events but also through everyday moments of compassion and genuine care.

August is also a wonderful time to continue growing in wellness. Wellness encompasses much more than physical health. It includes caring for our spiritual, emotional, intellectual, social, vocational and environmental well-being. Sometimes growth begins with something as simple as trying a new activity, reconnecting with an old friend, spending time in prayer, or taking a peaceful walk to enjoy God’s creation.

Perhaps the greatest habit we can cultivate is gratitude. Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to the abundance God has already provided. It strengthens hope, deepens relationships, and reminds us that every season of life has purpose. Even when circumstances change, God’s love and faithfulness remain constant.

As we journey through this month, look for opportunities to brighten someone’s day. A smile, a handwritten note, an invitation to coffee, or a few moments spent listening can become a meaningful expression of Christ’s love.

Thank you for making Trinity Woods more than a place to live. Together, we are building a community where faith, friendship, and purpose flourish. May this August be filled with joyful moments, renewed strength, and grateful hearts as we continue walking together in God’s grace.

Rejoice in today!

By Garrett Lee, Trinity Woods CEO

As we welcome August, I’ve been reflecting on all our community has experienced together over the past few years. Change has been a consistent theme—from completing major construction projects and welcoming new leadership to celebrating an extraordinary milestone: 70 years of serving older adults with compassion, dignity, and excellence.

Periods of change naturally invite questions and concerns. They also present opportunities.

Recently, we celebrated the retirement of our longtime Chief Operating Officer, Dennis Graham, whose leadership helped shape Trinity Woods. We are deeply grateful for his service and for the many leaders who have faithfully advanced our mission over the years. Their legacy continues as we welcome new leaders, residents, and employees who share our commitment to serving in the spirit of Christ.

Our campus has also been transformed through thoughtful improvements that enhance life for today’s residents while preparing for future generations. These investments create spaces where people can connect, thrive, and truly feel at home.

While much has changed, what matters most has remained the same. For 70 years, our mission has been rooted in providing exceptional care, building meaningful relationships, and fostering a vibrant community where residents can live with purpose and peace of mind. Every decision we make reflects our commitment to those we serve and to the employees who bring our mission to life each day.

As we look ahead, I am filled with optimism. Trinity Woods is financially strong, strategically focused, and supported by an engaged Board of Directors, dedicated employees, outstanding leadership, and wonderful residents. Together, we are building on a proud legacy while preparing for an even brighter future.

Thank you for your trust and partnership. As we move forward together, we remain committed to honoring our past, serving with excellence today, and celebrating our bright future.

By Lupina Fry, Wellness Nurse

Most of us know that sunlight helps our bodies make Vitamin D, lowers stress, and keeps your sleep cycle on track. But being in nature can provide even more benefits. The National Institute of Health (NIH) reports that spending just 10 to 20 minutes outside can lift your mood, improve focus, enhance memory, lower blood pressure, and help you sleep better. Studies also show that time outdoors can lower your risk of major illnesses like heart disease and diabetes, boost your immune system, and ease anxiety and depression. Getting outside each day, even briefly, can make a real difference for both body and mind.

Many experts suggest that a short 20-minute session outdoors each day can lower heart rate and sharpen focus. This is a general guideline. Individual needs may vary based on age, current health, and even the season. It’s a good idea to adjust your routine to fit your own circumstances.

 If you’re concerned about full sun exposure, try early-morning sunrises and late-evening sunsets. They may be beautiful experiences, but they also do your body some good. Stepping outside early in the day lets natural light hit your circadian rhythm’s master clock. This tells you to be alert, awake, and energized. Sunset’s warm, amber tones prepare your body for sleep. Try enjoying your morning coffee outside or watching the sunset in the evening.

The practice of Shinrin-yoku, a Japanese term for forest bathing, involves consciously immersing all your senses in nature. Unplugging from technology to absorb the environment through sight, sound, smell, and touch. Sit on a bench, feel the wind, listen to the birds, or take off your shoes to feel the cool grass. That’s Shinrin-yoku.

One study used smartphones with assessment applications and found positive associations with feeling happy, restored, and relaxed within 10 minutes in nature! It doesn’t take much time or effort to make an impact. In this study, participants sat on benches, strolled in parks, or took brief walks outdoors.

At Trinity Woods, we recognize that nature and beautiful surroundings are part of environmental wellness. Places like little Woodard Park (outside of Crestwood), Owens Park, and the numerous walking trails make it easy and safe to get outside. So why not take a moment today to step outdoors and experience these benefits for yourself? The return on investment is truly positive!

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

As Trinity Woods celebrates July and joins the nation in marking America’s 250th birthday, it is fitting to remember that great things often begin in quiet, unassuming ways. A nation, a community, a calling, a life of faith, all are shaped by beginnings that may seem small at first glance. Jesus reminds us of that truth in the parable of the mustard seed (Matthew 13: 31-32).

“The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed,” He says. In the original Greek, the word kokkos refers to a tiny grain, something so small it could easily be overlooked. Yet that little seed carries within it the power of future growth. What looks insignificant is not empty. What appears small is not without promise.

The same is true in our own lives. In biblical thought, a seed is never just a seed. The Hebrew word zera carries the sense of offspring, future, and promise. A seed is not only what is planted; it is what is carried forward. Hidden inside the smallest beginning is the possibility of fruit, shelter, and blessing.

Jesus says the mustard seed grows until it becomes large enough for the birds of the air to come and rest in its branches. That image is deliberate. In Scripture, great trees often represent kingdoms and places of refuge. But the mustard seed was not a noble cedar. It was ordinary, fast-growing, and even a little wild. By choosing this image, Jesus teaches us that the Kingdom of God does not always look polished or predictable. It begins quietly, grows unexpectedly, and spreads farther than anyone imagined.

Sometimes we dismiss small things: a kind word, a prayer whispered in the morning, a decision to forgive, a new habit, a fresh commitment, a seed of hope in a difficult season. Yet the parable tells us not to despise small beginnings. What seems minor today may become a place of shelter tomorrow. What appears hidden now may one day bless many.

As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday this July, we are reminded that both nations and lives are shaped by beginnings. Small beginnings are still beginnings. Seeds still grow. Prayers still matter. Faithful work still bears fruit. And in God’s hands, even the smallest start can become something greater than we ever expected.

So let us honor the past, live faithfully in the present, and trust God with the future. The seed is small, but the promise is not.