About Me

My photo
I am a retired English teacher and department head, the mother of three grand mother of four, and have been married to the same man for 52 years. I subscribe to Dr. PM Forni's concept of Civility. I was born in South Philadelphia and grew up in the 'burbs. I love soft pretzels and cheesesteaks, the Phillies, the Eagles, and San Diego. I love being Mom, Aunt Kathy, Nona Kathy, and Teacher. I spend a lot of time in my gardens in the spring and summer, and in the winter I plan what I'm going to plant. I also am an avid reader and photographer.

Translator!

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Blooming Clivia, a Great Community, But Baby It's Cold Outside!

It's cold and raw here today. Some snow on the ground, but now it's 'snaining'. All-in-all not a pleasant day. So, I thought I'd post two more cheerful photos.


The clivia bloomed a few days ago and has even sent up an additional stalk. Look outside to see the snow on the step.

My mom lives in an Erickson community. Erickson, currently in 12 States across the US, builds these really wonderful places for active seniors to live. I believe there are more than 20 currently existing communities such as my mom's. Hers is a newer community and she was one of the first to move in two years ago. She is able, because of the bridge concept like they have in Minneapolis, to walk about four miles a day without having to suffer the weather. When spring comes, she'll use the outside paths. They have a putting green, gardens for rent, a pool, spa, television station, train garden, dining rooms, a bistro, and no fewer than 85 clubs for the residents to enjoy. I think my mom is in all of them as she's never home when I call!
This is the cornerstone placed above the front entrance of the community; rather telling as to the spirit of this community.

12 comments:

happyone said...

Sounds like a great place where your mom lives. I'd like to live somewhere like that in 20 years or so.
I made it home just as the snow started this morning - I'm glad it's turned to rain and there is no ice around!!

Brad said...

I hope there are still places like that available next year when I'm ready to be put out to pasture.

Not that your folks are...oh, now I've stepped in it...

Gulf Coast said...

I bet your mother has a wonderful time hanging with the other seniors and the activities that they do.

Jay said...

I think I might be ready to move in next door to your mother. LOL

Cheryl said...

I've visited Ryderwood with my parents. I believe it's an Erikson property. It was so wonderful and I remember thinking that I'd live there in a heartbeat if I could afford it. My parents were invited to tour the facilities and have lunch. They only came for the free lunch.

Gin said...

Love the flower!!! And that's such a positive message!

fiwa said...

Sounds like a great place to live - I hope to be able to live someplace like that when we're ready. :)

And what a gorgeous plant - the leaves are so glossy and green. You must have a way with house plants!

Ruth Hull Chatlien said...

It snained here today too. Great word.

Real Live Lesbian said...

I'm jealous. I wanna live with your mom! ;)

Your clivia's pretty....

You made me laugh out loud over at Crusty's!

Deblynne said...

My Mom lives in a nearby Erickson Community, Riderwood, in Silver Spring. In addition to all of the activities they have a medical center on campus and other ammenities such as hairdresser, etc. She has a lovely apartment in "independent living." She chooses one of the 4 or 5 dining rooms for her meal of the day and meets new people all the time.

In addition to the independent living apartments, there are a few levels of assisted living and a nursing home. The continuum of care was very helpful when Mom was in the hospital last year. She was able to come back to the assisted living building for rehab for a few days before going back home. Because my Dad had been in the nursing home, she knew some of the nurses and staff and it was easier for her than if she had been in a place where she didn't know anyone.

beachgirl said...

I am glad your Mom found such a great place. And that she gets out and enjoys everything.
My MIL lives in a retirement community and isolates herself. We were kind of hoping she would get out and meet people. But she didn't.


Have an awesome day.

Jay said...

Ah, so that's a Clivia! I shall look out for one!

The retirement complex sounds like a great place!