The Beauty of Aging in Our Culture

 I was reading an article recently published in the East Bay Times on the Beauty of Aging.  I identified with the sentiment of the article that I am reposting excerpts from the article. It was written by Charles Blow dated June 21, 2024. Here some excerpts that I enjoyed very much. 

1. No one really tells us how we are supposed to age, how much fighting against it and how much acceptance of it is the right balance. 

2. There is after all, a beauty of aging. And aging is about more than how we look and feel our bodies. It is also about how the world around us plows ahead and pulls us along. 

3. I have no intention of raging against my aging. I intend to embrace it, to embrace the muscles aches and the crow's feet as a price of growing wisdom and grace. 

4. Lastly, Aging, as I see it, is a gift, and I will receive it with gratitude. 

Here are two more quotes on the beauty of Aging; 

Lastly here's an activity here in THD that I plan on attending- Jeff Wessmann- Joy of Awakening for Seniors, Wednesday, June 26, 7-8PM at the Cinema. 

 

        

The Greeter's Role and Space Allocation for Activities Here at THD

WITH A LOT OF NEW RESIDENTS MOVING IN THE NEXT 2 MONTHS, it is imperative that they should be welcome and made feel right at home with the help of the THD Greeter's Program. 

I believe that the Greeter's most important duty is to inform the new resident to complete the Vital of Life Packet that will include the resident health information and will help the 911 providers in case of emergency. This Packet should be included in the New Resident Brochure. It should be posted in the Refrigerator of each apartment for easy accessibility in case of a 911 emergency. 

 The general  role of the Greeter is as follows:

• 
  Greeters’ role is to simply help the new resident adjust to their new life at THD. Be a point of contact for them should they need help with dining, transportation, activities, or navigating the THD property. 
• Invite them to a lunch/dinner.
• Invite them to THD social events or excursions.
• Introduce them to other residents and hopefully new friendships develop organically.

 

Overall, the role of the greeter is just being friendly, welcoming, and supportive!

I have been a Greeter twice during the last 4 months. I enjoyed this activity very much. I was the Greeter of Jay Pollack and John and Carol Larimore. If you want to know If I was an excellent Greeter feel free to ask Jay, John or Carol. 

Meanwhile allow me to mention again my earlier postings in how each person/resident here at THD could contribute to the sense of community and belonging in our community. 

  

 https://theintellectualmigrants.blogspot.com/2024/05/building-sense-of-community-here-at-thd_24.html

Meanwhile, I heard thru the grape vine ( there is no official announcement or e-mail), that the Fireside Lounge will be converted into an ACTIVITY ROOM. If this is true, this is one of the best furniture rearrangement and space allocation that THD management has done this past year.  THD need a space for Activities like Wine Tasting, Arts and Crafts and other activities that are well attended.

To me Activity is one of the most important factor in enhancing the well-being of its Senior Citizens by promoting sense of community and belonging here at THD. My Kudos and Congratulations, to the Person (s) who initiated on this Room Conversion Rearrangement and Space Allocation here at THD.

I also heard that an interior decorator has been hired to update the old antiquated look of the Churchill's Pub. This is also a much welcome change. Keep up with Good Work THD Management and Activities Personnels.      

Lastly, The other day, I had the chilled cucumber soup that I enjoyed very much. Kudos to Agustin and his Kitchen Crew. 

Newton's Dining Area is almost filled to Capacity During Dinner Time at 5PM. Is there room for Expansion? 

THD is Now Advertising as a Pet-Friendly Community

My Two Pets( Batman & Robin) enjoying Their Catio and Fresh Air. Both are eagerly watching for the squirrels and humming birds in the neighborhood. My Catio is one of the primary reasons why I chose THD as my new downsizing home.

THD recent advertising appears to be getting positive results based on the expected number of new residents moving this Month and the next 2 months. Last week it advertised as a community for active seniors based on its fitness and exercise program. 

"Staying active is crucial for seniors. Our state-of-the-art fitness center, serene yoga studio, year-round heated pool, and guided walks keep you healthy and engaged. Plus, our partnership with Senior Reach Fitness offers tailored classes just for you. Discover the benefits of fitness and join our vibrant community today! "

This week it is advertising it as a pet friendly senior community as follows:

"Pets bring unconditional love, companionship, and numerous health benefits to our lives. At The Heritage Downtown, we proudly support pet companionship with our pet-friendly environment. From emotional support and physical health benefits to mental stimulation and routine, pets enhance the lives of our residents in so many ways.

Our community offers pet-friendly apartments, on-site pet amenities, and access to pet care services, ensuring that both residents and their furry friends can thrive. We also organize pet-friendly social activities, creating opportunities for residents and their pets to build friendships and share joy.

As far as I know, there are two other residents with 2 black cats as pets. Small dogs are the most popular pets. I believe there are at least six residents with small dogs. I know of other 2 residents with bigger dogs with very sweet personality, JoJo and Willy. Some of the smaller dogs are always barking if left alone by their owners for a couple of hours. Other small pets are well-behave, but most of the pets are under control by their owners and are not allowed inside the Dining room.

Here's my previous posting on cats and dogs as pets:

https://theintellectualmigrants.blogspot.com/2022/11/are-you-dog-or-cat-lover.html

Meanwhile, Jenny informed me yesterday that the next apartment to me ( F104) that had been vacant for several months will now have a new occupant soon. I am looking forward to meet my new neighbor. Have A Great and HOT Weekend everyone. Keep cool and stay in the Shade!

Lunch at FOB Kitchen- A Gastronomic Delight

THD Lunch Excursion, FOB Kitchen, Oakland, CA June 20, 2024 ( Temescal District)💥 

The Bar and Front Desk of FOB Kitchen Restaurant and Bar featuring the Flag of the Philippines

Yesterday lunch excursion at FOB Kitchen in the Oakland Temescal District💥 ( 52nd/Telegraph) was indeed a gastronomic success. There were 9 THD residents💚who attended and chaperon by Teresa Nudo(THD Activity) with Joseph Woo, our van Driver. We ordered family style at my suggestion.  I ordered chicken adobo, garlic fried rice, Shanghai lumpia( 2) and Vegetable lumpia( 2), lechon kawali, pansit sotanghon( 2), mushrooms and tofu siarciado  For dessert we have Turon( with jackfruit) with ube( purple) ice cream and Mango rice Cake. 

I ordered an extra pancit and lumpia (egg rolls) that I was able to bring after lunch to the Front Desk.  I hope Emma, Deanna. Cydney, Galen  and Barbara and others were able to taste/sample what we residents 💚brought for them.   

This lunch had been planned since last month with Galen💘. For personal reasons Galen was not able to attend and Teresa took over her hosting duties. Based on comments from the lunch excursionist residents, everyone enjoyed the lunch very much. Most of them thank me for organizing the event.  

In general the main dishes were great, however what was outstanding was the Food Presentation and the Dessert. Here are some photos I took during this lunch excursion.

         

One of the Dessert I enjoyed very much is the Rice Cake with slice Fresh Mangoes

Here are some photos taken By Teresa:

💚The 9 residents who attended the Lunch Excursion were as follows:

Debby Baldwin, Carol Bradas, Susan Bramson, Carle Hirahara,  Steve Kam, David Katague(Me), Phyllis Morical, Jay Pollack, and Peggy Yamada.  

💥Located in North Oakland, Temescal is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. Temescal is a favored area with an intense art scene, perfect for singles and motivated young professionals. Prized for its hipster-like vibe and free-spirited atmosphere, the residents in Temescal can be found at one of the many chic coffee shops, vintage clothing stores, or hip breweries. Full of distinct charm and character, this neighborhood is home to various homeowners with culturally diverse backgrounds. With a low crime rate and a high safety rating, Temescal is a fantastic place to settle down no matter where you come from. Plus, known as a welcoming and family-friendly neighborhood, the school system is highly rated, and there are many parks and playgrounds for raising your own family.

💘https://theintellectualmigrants.blogspot.com/2024/05/a-filipino-lunch-excursion-plan-for-june.html

My Snake Plants- An Indoor Air Purifier

Two Varieties of My Snake Plant in My Living Room Here at THD 

Dracaena trifasciata is a species of flowering plant in the familyAsparagaceae, native to tropical West Africa from Nigeria east to the Congo. It is most commonly known as the snake plant, Saint George's sword, mother-in-law's tongue, and viper's bowstring hemp, among other names. Until 2017, it was known under the synonym Sansevieria trifasciata. This plant is often kept as a houseplant due to its non-demanding maintenance; they can survive with very little water and sun.

NASA has classified Sansevieria, now called Dracaena, as an air purifier due to its ability to remove toxic compounds such as benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene and toluene.

This plant uses the acid metabolism of the Crassulaceae to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, enabling it to resist drought.

The microscopic pores on its leaves, called stomata, open only at night to limit water loss through transpiration in the heat of the sun. Unlike other plants, Sansevieria produces oxygen and absorbs carbon dioxide at night, making it an excellent indoor air purifier while we sleep.

Snake plant medicinal benefits include removing indoor air pollutants (such as formaldehyde and benzene) and helping to filter out impurities such as xylene, trichloroethylene, toluene, and ammonia. The snake plant can remove up to 87% of these harmful toxins at night. It can also reduce the level of nitrate ions.

Snake Plant in MY Computer Room- Second Bedroom and Guest Room with the Spider Plant

A Variegated  Dracena Indoor Plant in MY Bedroom- similar to the Snake Plant( Calathea). 

My Snake Plant Outside in My PATIO AND CATIO here at THD

How to make a sansevieria flower bloom: Its fragrance reaches the whole house

Sansevieria (snake plant) care instructions:

-Watering:

Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry.

During the winter, water only a few times a month, no more.

-Lighting

Place the plant near a well-lit window to promote healthy, vibrant green leaves.

-Racing

Do not cut the ends of the leaves.

Remove any dry leaves to prevent disease.

-Fertilising

Apply fertiliser to flowering plants monthly in late spring and summer.

This will encourage the plant to flower in late summer, producing vanilla-scented flowers.

Lastly, the Lucky Bamboo Plant that Jenny gave me the other day is now at home with my other indoor plants and displayed beautifully along my cacti terrarium. Thank you, Jenny once Again for your gift. 

 

House Plants Symbolism for your Information!

https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2021/04/popular-and-easy-to-grow-house-plants.html

Above are the two garden plaques I was able to move to THD from my former residence in Fair Oaks 

From My FaceBook Page This Morning- Aging

AGING....

1. You grow old, they told me, you are no longer you, you become distant, sad and lonely.

I didn't answer...I don't get old, I get wise.

2. I stopped being what others like me to become, but what I like to be.

I stopped seeking the acceptance of others and accepted myself. I have left behind the lying mirrors that deceive mercilessly. - No, I'm not getting old.

3. I just become more selective with places, people, customs and ideologies. I have let go of attachments, unnecessary pain, toxic people, sick souls and rotten hearts... bitterness and unhappiness are not for me, I release them for my health. I'm ditching party nights for learning and embracing insomnia. I stopped living stories and started writing them, I threw aside the imposed stereotypes. I no longer carry eyeshadow in my bag, now I have a book that beautifies my mind. I exchanged wine glasses for coffee cups, forgot to idealize life and started living it. No, I'm not getting old.

4. I carry freshness in my soul, innocence in my heart, and it discovers me daily. I have in my hands the tenderness of a cocoon that, when opened, will spread its wings to other places unreachable for those who seek only the frivolity of the material. I have that charming smile on my face when I observe the simplicity of nature. I carry in my ears the chirping of the birds that delight me and accompany the walk. - No, I'm not getting old.

5. I become selective, betting my time on the intangible, rewriting the story I've been told, rediscovering worlds, saving those old books I've forgotten half open. I'm becoming more cautious, I've stopped the outbursts that teach me nothing, I'm learning to talk about transcendent things, I'm learning to cultivate knowledge, plant ideals and falsify my destiny.

- No, I'm not getting old.

6. I begin to live who I really am.~

Finally I am invited you all to join us at the Lunch Excursion at FOB Kitchen in Oakland this Thursday, June 20. Please sign in in the Lobby, Seating is Limited.

https://theintellectualmigrants.blogspot.com/2024/05/a-filipino-lunch-excursion-plan-for-june.html

Father's Day Photos and Escapade

Dinah visited me yesterday on Fathers Day. She gave me a Cacti-Succulent Garden ( see photos above) that I am very please to add to my collection. After Brunch, she drove me to Seafood City in Concord. I purchased mangoes and Pinoy Dishes ( Pork Blood Stew- Dinuguan and Kare-kare- Pigs Hocks and Ox tails in Peanut Sauce from Ima's Kitchen. There was a 10 minute wait to get service at Ima's since there were about ten customers ahead of me, but the food was worth the wait. 

Speaking of Filipino Food, Galen has finalized THD Lunch Excursion to FOB Restaurant in the Oakland Temescal District for June 20( See Brochure Above).    Here's my previous posting on this Michelin rated restaurant in the East Bay. https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2024/05/a-filipino-lunch-excursion-plan-for-june.html

After the sumptuous brunch, Dinah and I had a leisurely drive to Concord and also in the Walnut Creek suburbs on our way to and from Seafood City and Ima's Restaurant at my request. We did not take the Freeway. The leisurely drive is an activity that I always treasure because it meant I got out of my Gilded Cage for fresh air. 

Here are some photos during our brunch: Martha, Carmen and Teresa also took some photos during the Brunch at Newtons. I am hoping they will share it with me soon.

Red and Yellow Mangoes, I purchased at SeaFood City in Concord. They were $1.29 each.

 

The last three photos were from the THD Page Book Page( 6/16/24) with the following Description

Happy Father’s Day! Our Residents & Families are celebrating with a fabulous Brunch in our onsite restaurant & patio!

 

From My FaceBook Page Today- Joys of Aging

My Patio and Bougainvilla This Year at THD- Batman and Robin Loves to shindig on the Patio, everyday. 

I found this on My FaceBook Today! 

English Actress Dame Judi Dench said: “One day, a young woman asked me:

“What do you think about being old?” I thought aging was a gift.

I wouldn't change anything I have for a few less wrinkles and a flat stomach.

Who cares if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 in the morning and then sleep until who knows how much?

Who cares if I dance alone listening to '50s music?

What if I later wanted to cry for a lost love? And if I walk on the beach in a bathing suit and walk my chubby body and sink between the waves, swinging at them, despite those still wearing bikinis... they'll be old too if they're lucky.

I'm proud that I lived long enough to have my hair done gray and to keep the smile of my youth, since there were still no such deep marks on my face.

I don't want to complain about what wasn't or worry about what will happen. For the time I have left, I will simply love life as I have done it to this day.''

Here's the website of the California Department of Aging for resources:

https://aging.ca.gov/Aging_Resources/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3CBx8KdbAqQf2IIR5dUPnzg_ty-EmBQJXjzvRZm7vt-P0PcDbP5uSBxmM_aem_AdnxyYNGaRBum7RWu9v2vQzI_NLYOZc2UjtJNikjlgyrj_HsbQRanOjFRAJyaCd4W-0OjTrqWEYib2Z1bN_bbNoW

Meanwhile, yesterday, THD Newton's Restaurant had Mexican Gazpacho soup with baby shrimps that I really enjoyed!

Kudos to Agustin for a perfect Gazpacho soup for a warm summery night here in Walnut Creek, CA.

Not the actual soup photo but very similar of how the soup looked but with a sprinkle of Baby Shrimps, Yummy and Cool.

My Word of the Week- Shindig

Yesterday while playing bridge, I mentioned to the group, that I used the word shindig to remind a member of our 12:30PM game. For for some reasons or another I just remember the word and I believe it is an English slang, I learned as a graduate student in the 1960's at the University of Illinois where I first learned how to play bridge with my fellow Graduate Students. 

 Here's some synonyms and similar words. Note that playing bridge is not in the list. 

Definition of shindig 

as in event

a social gathering we're hosting a little shindig this weekend for some friends

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

• event
• party
• bash
• celebration
• reception
• fete
• fête
• gala
• blowout
• affair
• dance
• blast
• function
• get-together
• ball
• binge
• do
• fund-raiser
• benefit
• supper
• occasion
• formal
• prom
• soirée
• symposium
• soiree
• orgy
• masquerade
• clambake
• housewarming
• bacchanal
• tea
• shower
• bacchanalia
• stag
• saturnalia
• mixer
• tea party
• social
• kegger
• bake
• cocktail party
• salon
• klatch
• house party
• icebreaker
• meet and greet
• hen party
• keg party
• klatsch
• kaffeeklatsch

Lastly, here are more words for your vocabulary