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!

By Weldon Tisdale, Chaplain

“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” –
Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

As September unfolds, we begin to notice the subtle shift in seasons. The air becomes crisper, the days a little shorter, and the rhythm of life seems to steady after the summer’s busyness. In many parts of the world, this is the season of harvest: a time when what was planted in hope months ago finally comes to
fruition.

Spiritually, September can also mark a season of reaping and reflection. It’s a time to ask: What seeds have we sown this year, in our faith, relationships, service, and work? Have we been faithful in planting kindness, perseverance, and trust in God even when we didn’t see immediate results?

Paul reminds us in Galatians that the harvest isn’t always immediate. Some breakthroughs come slowly. Some answers to prayer take time. But God is faithful. And just like the farmer who trusts the process and the seasons, we, too, are called to remain faithful and not give up, knowing that in God’s perfect
timing, a harvest will come.

September also marks the beginning of a new academic and ministry year for many schools, churches and families. It brings an opportunity for renewed commitment — to prayer, to service, to being the hands and feet of Jesus in our communities. It’s a good time to pause and ask God:

“What new thing are You doing in me, and how can I participate in it?”

As you step into this month, may you be encouraged that nothing done in love, faith, or obedience is ever wasted. Every prayer whispered, every act of kindness shown, and every challenge faced with grace is a seed planted in God’s garden. He sees. He remembers. He rewards.

Let us at Trinity Woods welcome this new season with open hearts ready to trust, to serve, and to celebrate the God who brings every good work to completion. Rest assured that God is always on time. Watch and wait patiently for we will reap if we do not give up.

In the Summer of 2024, Chaplain Weldon Tisdale was named the Interim Director of Wellness. This was a strategic organizational move implemented to provide necessary Leadership within our Wellness areas, while working to evaluate the future direction and strategy of the Wellness realm of our organization. Since that time, Weldon has engaged in all areas of Wellness with grace and been able to make positive changes and improvements that have impacted the resident and employee experience. Weldon has provided servant leadership to the Wellness Team and been a valuable contributor on the Executive Leadership Team, all while continuing to facilitate engaging spiritual services. We thank Weldon for stepping up and serving with passion during this time.

With that said, we are excited to announce that Weldon has accepted the offer to become the Vice President of Wellness and Chaplain. We look forward to supporting the good work he has started over the last year. With this title change, Weldon will continue providing spiritual services as the Chaplain.
Spirituality is a foundational element of wellness, and we are grateful to have Weldon leading in this area.