Aaron Stuart has joined the Trinity Woods family. You might remember him most recently has one of the Trinity Woods Administrators in Training participants. In his new role Aaron will oversee the team and resident experience in the Marshall-Gaddy and Barnes Houses.

“I am excited to build relationships with our residents, family and employees while resolving challenges and utilizing core strengths of the organization,” said Aaron. “I look forward to partnering with the families
as we care for their loved ones in the Houses.”

Prior to working with Trinity Woods, Aaron was in health care on the hospital side and has several years of experience in the private business sector. He is thrilled to be at Trinity Woods, “one of the reasons I accepted this position is the outstanding company culture and commitment to excellence in long-term care, which made me eager to join the team.”

In his spare time, Aaron collects vinyl albums, enjoys hiking and spending time with his wife Vicki and taking their dog Maggie for walks.

Trinity Woods residents are in for a culinary treat as the community welcomes its new Executive Chef, Thomas Farrell. With a rich background in culinary arts and a passion for creating nutritious, flavorful meals, Chef Farrell is excited to leave his mark on the dining experience at Trinity Woods.

“I’m really looking forward to getting to know the residents and my new coworkers and developing lasting relationships around serving and enjoying great food,” said Chef Farrell.

Chef Farrell joins Trinity Woods with 40 years of experience in the culinary fi eld, having worked in restaurants, hospitality venues, and owning his own bread company. He has experience managing a kitchen staff and is a team player with a customer service focus. Chef Farrell is a classically trained chef at the French Culinary Institute, Manhattan, NY, with expertise in French, Italian, American, and Greek cuisines, artisan bread and pastry.

“I worked my way up in restaurant kitchens, beginning at age 17,” said Chef Farrell. “I loved the work and atmosphere from the beginning. It was fast paced, intense, and spirited. I worked with great people and interesting personalities, and the food was delightful.”

Trinity Woods places great emphasis on the importance of the dining experience as a central part of residents’ daily lives. Beyond providing sustenance, dining is designed to foster social connections, enhance well-being, and off er a sense of comfort.

Chef Farrell shares this vision, saying, “Food is more than nourishment—meals bring people together.”

There will be a meet-and-greet opportunity in the coming weeks, please be sure to check the Monthly Wellness Calendar for more information.

By Alison McMillan, Wellness Manager

Ringing in the New Year is always a time of hope and optimism. A new year, a chance for change, new adventures, new experiences, new friends, and new memories. But sometimes it can be intimidating.
We find ourselves settled in the comfort of the “same-old, same-old” and no matter how good it might be, we might find it difficult to break out of our routine to try and do something new. That first step can always be the hardest, but it is the most important.

Here are some tips to make it easier to get out, be more engaged, and get the most out of your new year:

Research: Gathering information about an activity or new hobby is a great first step, helping us feel informed and empowered.

Talk about Your Plan: Discussing your plans with friends or family can help by creating a system of accountability. After all, they will want to hear all about it!

Include Friends or Family: Having another person join you may help you feel more motivated and confident. It’s great for both of you!

Be Okay with Discomfort: Stepping out of our comfort zone may be uncomfortable for a variety of reasons, but confidence will build with each step you take.

Practice Positive Thinking: It can be easy to fall into negative thoughts, so it’s important to be intentional with positive thinking and self-reassurance.

Take the chance in 2025 to take that first step into an activity at Trinity Woods like Mah Jongg, Wii Bowling, the Men’s Sharing Group, Wet Brush Club, Chair Volleyball, and more! Reach out to anyone on
the Wellness Team to learn more about all the opportunities right

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

As we step into January, the beginning of a new year, we are often filled with a sense of renewal and
the promise of fresh starts. It’s a time to reflect on the past year, set new goals, and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. This theme of new beginnings is beautifully captured in the Bible, offering
us inspiration and guidance.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old
has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)

The start of a new year is a perfect time to embrace the concept of becoming a new creation in Christ. This scripture reminds us that through our faith in Christ, we leave behind our past mistakes and
shortcomings and we step into a new identity, one that is shaped by grace, forgiveness, and hope.

In our personal lives, this can translate into setting new goals, adopting a positive mindset, and seeking ways to improve our skills and relationships. Just as we are renewed through our faith, we can
also be renewed in our commitment to excellence and integrity in our daily lives.

Practical Steps for a Fresh Start:
1. Reflect and Learn: Take time to reflect on the past year. What were your successes? What challenges did you face? Use these reflections to learn and grow.

2. Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve in the coming year. Setting clear, achievable goals can provide direction and motivation.

3. Embrace Change: Be open to new opportunities and changes. Sometimes, a fresh start requires stepping out of your comfort zone.

4. Cultivate Positivity: Surround yourself with positive influences and maintain a hopeful outlook. Your attitude can significantly impact your success and well-being.

5. Seek Support: Lean on your faith and your community for support. Whether it’s through prayer, mentorship, counseling or teamwork, having a support system can make a big difference. As we journey through January and the rest of the year, let’s remember that each day is a new opportunity to grow and improve. By embracing the fresh start that the new year offers, and grounding ourselves in the wisdom of God’s Word, we can navigate the challenges and triumphs ahead with confidence and grace.

May this new year bring you renewed hope, strength, and joy. Happy New Year!

Growing up, we always spent Christmas with my grandparents. It was tiny little house in Tulsa, that we would pack over 40 people in for the day – sometimes four generations. We would open presents and eat
and just have the best time as a family.
– Tom Williams

When Jerry had just come back from Vietnam, we were stationed in Ft. Lee, VA. It was Christmas and his parents came to visit so we took them to Colonial Williamsburg – and it was so romantic and warm. It
was like we stepped back in time. It was such a nice way to spend the holiday with him, our kids and his parents.
– Julie Gustafson

Christmas dinner was always a formal affair for my family. It was a double celebration because my father’s birthday was on Christmas Eve. Mother always made a special ice box cake for his birthday and
Asparagus Casserole, which now has become a must-have for our family at Christmas and Easter. I learned to make it from her; I taught Irene (who is named after my mother) to make it, and this year my
granddaughter and namesake is coming over to make it with me.
– Marjorie Monnet

“When I was about 4 or 5 years old I remember questioning whether Santa was real or not. We lived on a farm in a small house. When Christmas morning came, and I saw all the presents I was convinced
Santa was real. To me there was no room in our house to hide that many presents.”
– Dale Carson

I remember I was 6-8 years old, it was Christmas Day, and my dad took me rabbit hunting. He had to get me out of the house so “Santa” could come. When we got home I found the doll I wanted from Santa sitting on the divan.
– Lucy Annett

By Allison McMillan, Wellness Manager

As December rolls in, it ushers in a mix of excitement and challenges. With festive celebrations, colder weather, and shorter days, this month is a blend of joy and potential stress. Prioritizing wellness during December helps you enjoy the season while maintaining your physical, emotional, and mental health. Here’s how you can embrace winter wellness this month.

Stay Active in the Cold – The drop in temperatures can make it tempting to hibernate, but staying active is crucial. Whether it’s a brisk walk, an at-home workout, or yoga, regular physical activity helps boost your mood and energy.

Prioritize Rest and Sleep – With holiday planning, social gatherings, and end-of-year responsibilities, it’s easy to skimp on sleep. Yet, rest is essential for immune function, emotional balance, and overall wellness.

Manage Holiday Stress – The holidays can be a source of joy, but they can also bring stress. Practice mindfulness through meditation or deep breathing exercises to stay grounded.

Foster Connections – The festive season is about connection. Reach out to loved ones, whether through a family gathering, video call, or a heartfelt message. Volunteering your time or resources to those in need can also foster a sense of community and gratitude.

Reflect and Reset – December is a natural time for reflection. Take stock of the year’s achievements and challenges and set intentions for the new year. Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-awareness and goal setting.

Protect Your Immune System – With winter comes cold and flu season. Strengthen your immune system with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper sleep. Wash your hands frequently.

In conclusion, December is a time of celebration, reflection, and preparation for the year ahead. By prioritizing wellness, you can make the most of this special time while maintaining balance. With a little intention and self-care, you can thrive through the winter and enter the new year feeling rejuvenated
and inspired.

Make this December not just about surviving the cold and chaos, but about truly thriving.

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

As December arrives, many individuals begin to feel the spirit of the season — a mix of joy, anticipation, and deep reflection. For Christians, this time of year is marked by Advent, the period of preparation for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. It is a time to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, to reflect on His
significance in our lives, and to remind ourselves of God’s great love for all.

The word Advent means “coming” or “arrival.” During Advent, we anticipate the coming of Jesus, both as the infant born in Bethlehem and as our Savior who will return one day. Each week in Advent centers on a theme—hope, peace, joy, and love— encouraging us to grow in faith and draw closer to God.

At the heart of December’s celebrations is the wonder of God’s gift to us—His own Son. As John 3:16 beautifully expresses, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Christmas is more than a holiday; it is a reminder of the profound love God has for each of us. He sent Jesus to be Emmanuel, “God with us,” so we might know His love firsthand and experience the joy of salvation.

December can be a busy month, filled with shopping, planning, and family gatherings. Yet, in the middle of all the activity, we are called to seek the peace that only Christ can provide. Philippians 4:7 promises us, “The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” We are encouraged to make space for quiet prayer, to focus on His peace, and to share that peace with those around us.

During this season, let us also remember those who may find this time of year challenging. December is an opportunity to share joy by reaching out to those in need, offering encouragement, and spreading the hope of Christ. Through acts of kindness and generosity, we can embody the love and compassion Jesus
showed and share the message of the Good News.

As we journey through this season of Advent and prepare for Christmas, let us open our hearts to receive God’s love and share it with others. May we carry the light of Christ within us and reflect His hope, peace, joy, and love in all we do.

As the holiday season approaches, there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit than by stepping into the enchanting world of Christmas in the Woods. This beloved annual tradition transforms the Trinity Woods campus into a winter wonderland, brimming with charm, creativity, and holiday cheer.

Christmas in the Woods offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and seasonal joy. Twinkling lights adorn the trees, creating a magical ambiance that invites visitors of all ages to explore and celebrate. Some of the highlights of this year’s event include a live nativity, horse-drawn carriage rides, a train display, a candy shop, and Santa and Mrs. Claus.

No holiday event would be complete without delicious food, and Christmas in the Woods delivers that in spades. Visitors can indulge in everything from carved prime rib and ham with all the holiday sides and piping hot cocoa to fresh fudge. Be sure to sample all the specialties and festive baked goods while strolling through campus.

The magic of Christmas in the Woods extends beyond its sights and flavors. Live music by carolers and local musicians, and a holiday performance by Grady Nichols will provide entertainment for the entire family. Kids can enjoy special activities like Elfie Selfies or a visit with Santa himself, while adults can savor the warm camaraderie of the holiday spirit.

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.

To purchase tickets, visit the Crestwood Concierge or the Holliman Center Receptionist – $15 members, $18 guests, and $10 children ages 3-12. Children under 3 are free. For more information call 918.346.6614.

Celebrate the holidays in a place where the season truly comes to life. Experience the wonder of Christmas in the Woods—it’s a tradition you’ll want to keep for years to come.

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.