Irene, who will be 90 this July, is a retired pharmacist who worked for Shoppers Drug Mart in Ontario for 21 years. Her and her husband (who was an Engineer) loved to travel the world, they were always planning their next big trip. “We had a lovely marriage - we did almost everything together, he was my best friend!” Irene explains. They eventually moved out to British Columbia where she began some unexpected, but interesting new hobbies. Some of these hobbies included making beautiful porcelain dolls and ceramic teapots. The idea was initially suggested to her by a friend to start making dolls, to which Irene replied with lots of laughter! Well it turned out she had quite the hidden talent for this, so she kept on making them.
Irene's dolls displayed at Fleetwood Villa's craft fair
Two years ago, her husband of 70 years passed away, not only was Irene devastated but as time went on, she began to find the upkeep of her home to be too much for her to manage. That is when she knew it was time to consider other options, where she could continue to live independently without any worries. Irene soon found her new home- Fleetwood Villa.
Fleetwood Villa is a fun and vibrant community, it is bright, open and full of natural light. The moment you enter the building you are greeted with friendly staff and a warm and inviting environment. Not to mention, the beautifully landscaped courtyard for everyone to enjoy, and the delicious chef prepared meals they provide. When Irene first moved in, she found everyone to be very welcoming, and mentions that there are always lots of activities to choose from and so many opportunities for socializing and making new friends. “The recreation manager Allan, is wonderful, he puts so much effort into everything he does!” Knowing that moving into a brand-new community all by yourself (especially after losing your spouse) can be a bit intimidating and overwhelming, Irene decided to join the Welcome Ambassadors group to help others experiencing the same emotions. When new people move in, Irene introduces herself and shows them around. She also offers to accompany them to events and programs, so she can introduce them to the other residents, and help them feel more comfortable. She recently received a certificate of appreciation to recognize her outstanding dedication, and commitment to helping celebrate the ageless spirit of the residents at Fleetwood Villa! Well done Irene!! 
Irene is a very fun-loving and kind lady who loves to help others and make them smile. She lives with her incredibly adorable 15-year-old dog ‘Tippy-D’ who was named after one of her dearest friends.
Irene, with Tippy-D and friends, enjoying a drink
Irene says her favourite thing to do at Fleetwood Villa, is to enjoy a glass of wine with friends and listen to live musical entertainment. Irene’s advice to anyone feeling fearful or undecided about the idea of moving into a retirement community is:
“If you’ve lost a partner, not only is it difficult, but you have to also accept the possibility that you might become lonely or isolated. Transitioning into a Retirement Community helps alleviate those feelings by finding new companionship and being part of a community. Smile today and you will smile tomorrow, keep trying new things, meet new people and don’t give up.” One last word to the masses by Irene: “Make sure you get the right suite that works for you! I am currently waiting for a bigger suite- not because I want room for a swimming pool, but because I want a big closet! I love clothes!" 
Irene, who will be 90 this July, is a retired pharmacist who worked for Shoppers Drug Mart in Ontario for 21 years. Her and her husband (who was an Engineer) loved to travel the world, they were always planning their next big trip. “We had a lovely marriage - we did almost everything together, he was my best friend!” Irene explains. They eventually moved out to British Columbia where she began some unexpected, but interesting new hobbies. Some of these hobbies included making beautiful porcelain dolls and ceramic teapots. The idea was initially suggested to her by a friend to start making dolls, to which Irene replied with lots of laughter! Well it turned out she had quite the hidden talent for this, so she kept on making them.
Irene's dolls displayed at Fleetwood Villa's craft fair
Two years ago, her husband of 70 years passed away, not only was Irene devastated but as time went on, she began to find the upkeep of her home to be too much for her to manage. That is when she knew it was time to consider other options, where she could continue to live independently without any worries. Irene soon found her new home- Fleetwood Villa.
Fleetwood Villa is a fun and vibrant community, it is bright, open and full of natural light. The moment you enter the building you are greeted with friendly staff and a warm and inviting environment. Not to mention, the beautifully landscaped courtyard for everyone to enjoy, and the delicious chef prepared meals they provide. When Irene first moved in, she found everyone to be very welcoming, and mentions that there are always lots of activities to choose from and so many opportunities for socializing and making new friends. “The recreation manager Allan, is wonderful, he puts so much effort into everything he does!” Knowing that moving into a brand-new community all by yourself (especially after losing your spouse) can be a bit intimidating and overwhelming, Irene decided to join the Welcome Ambassadors group to help others experiencing the same emotions.
When new people move in, Irene introduces herself and shows them around. She also offers to accompany them to events and programs, so she can introduce them to the other residents, and help them feel more comfortable. She recently received a certificate of appreciation to recognize her outstanding dedication, and commitment to helping celebrate the ageless spirit of the residents at Fleetwood Villa! Well done Irene!!
Irene is a very fun-loving and kind lady who loves to help others and make them smile. She lives with her incredibly adorable 15-year-old dog ‘Tippy-D’ who was named after one of her dearest friends. Irene, with Tippy-D and friends, enjoying a drink
Irene says her favourite thing to do at Fleetwood Villa, is to enjoy a glass of wine with friends and listen to live musical entertainment. Irene’s advice to anyone feeling fearful or undecided about the idea of moving into a retirement community is:
“If you’ve lost a partner, not only is it difficult, but you have to also accept the possibility that you might become lonely or isolated. Transitioning into a Retirement Community helps alleviate those feelings by finding new companionship and being part of a community. Smile today and you will smile tomorrow, keep trying new things, meet new people and don’t give up.” One last word to the masses by Irene: “Make sure you get the right suite that works for you! I am currently waiting for a bigger suite- not because I want room for a swimming pool, but because I want a big closet! I love clothes!"
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2/10/2020 0 Comments Navigating the Next Chapter When most people hear the terms Senior Living Community or Retirement Residence, they immediately picture a sterile, lonely and institutional environment. Thankfully due to the growing senior population, we are beginning to step away from the dreaded “nursing home” and into a new way of senior living. Today’s Senior Living Communities are catering to the discerning Baby Boomer who wants a higher standard of care, which includes an active lifestyle and intellectually stimulating programming.
These days more and more seniors are becoming proactive and beginning the transition at earlier stages of retirement, some even starting in their 60’s! They are making the choice to move into Independent Living, where they can still travel and participate in all the activities that they love without all of the worry, hassle, and upkeep that come with a regular home. Rather than waiting until their health begins to deteriorate and the choice is no longer theirs, seniors are choosing the Independent Living lifestyle because they want to increase their longevity and improve their overall health and well-being. One of my ‘Renewed Living’ clients put it best when she said "People used to think of senior living communities as a place you go to die, but now they are a place you go to really live!” Her and her sister decided to be proactive and begin researching what is out there in the way of Independent Living, so I began assisting them on this journey back in late October 2019. Throughout their search they were pleasantly surprised by how spacious the condos in these communities are, and by all the many amenities that they have to offer. For example- roof top garden/patios for BBQ’s and events, fully equipped gyms, libraries, large hair salons & spas and art rooms. Some of the places they toured even have demonstration kitchens for cooking classes, large lecture halls for University courses and private dining rooms for hosting private functions. They also noted that the monthly calendars have quite an array of activities to cater to all interests. Some of these activities include, Mindfulness & Meditation, Yoga, trips to Victoria, and shopping at Granville Island to name a few. One of the Communities they visited was located right on the campus of the University of British Columbia, which means all the residents who live there get to take advantage of the UBC programs. Some of these programs include, the Vancouver Institute Lectures, UBC Operas, and forest walks, etc.
The two sisters’ advice for anyone who might be feeling skeptical or fearful about the idea of transitioning into a Senior Living Community, is to get out there and see what all your options are, even if you are at the stage of requiring assistance or care support. In a community you aren’t alone or isolated, instead you have a group of people living and sharing common amenities. “There is companionship in whatever you do, to us taking part in a variety of activities with others who share common interests, is more fun than doing them on your own.” In conclusion, the Sisters’ believe that in a Senior Living Community, one’s life is being enriched since there are so many interesting and varied activities you can participate in, all while making new friends. When a person is happy and active, their longevity is ultimately increased because they are healthier. Whether you are fully independent or require assistance, there are so many options out there that you never know what you might find! When most people hear the terms Senior Living Community or Retirement Residence, they immediately picture a sterile, lonely and institutional environment. Thankfully due to the growing senior population, we are beginning to step away from the dreaded “nursing home” and into a new way of senior living. Today’s Senior Living Communities are catering to the discerning Baby Boomer who wants a higher standard of care, which includes an active lifestyle and intellectually stimulating programming.
These days more and more seniors are becoming proactive and beginning the transition at earlier stages of retirement, some even starting in their 60’s! They are making the choice to move into Independent Living, where they can still travel and participate in all the activities that they love without all of the worry, hassle, and upkeep that come with a regular home. Rather than waiting until their health begins to deteriorate and the choice is no longer theirs, seniors are choosing the Independent Living lifestyle because they want to increase their longevity and improve their overall health and well-being. One of my ‘Renewed Living’ clients put it best when she said "People used to think of senior living communities as a place you go to die, but now they are a place you go to really live!” Her and her sister decided to be proactive and begin researching what is out there in the way of Independent Living, so I began assisting them on this journey back in late October 2019. Throughout their search they were pleasantly surprised by how spacious the condos in these communities are, and by all the many amenities that they have to offer. For example- roof top garden/patios for BBQ’s and events, fully equipped gyms, libraries, large hair salons & spas and art rooms. Some of the places they toured even have demonstration kitchens for cooking classes, large lecture halls for University courses and private dining rooms for hosting private functions. They also noted that the monthly calendars have quite an array of activities to cater to all interests. Some of these activities include, Mindfulness & Meditation, Yoga, trips to Victoria, and shopping at Granville Island to name a few. One of the Communities they visited was located right on the campus of the University of British Columbia, which means all the residents who live there get to take advantage of the UBC programs. Some of these programs include, the Vancouver Institute Lectures, UBC Operas, and forest walks, etc. Another thing the sisters were very pleased with was the quality of the meals, “It was like dining in a 5-star restaurant! I must say, the food was beyond our expectations!” One of the sisters explains. Both remarked that they could definitely see themselves living happily and comfortably in one of these communities. 
The two sisters’ advice for anyone who might be feeling skeptical or fearful about the idea of transitioning into a Senior Living Community, is to get out there and see what all your options are, even if you are at the stage of requiring assistance or care support. In a community you aren’t alone or isolated, instead you have a group of people living and sharing common amenities. “There is companionship in whatever you do, to us taking part in a variety of activities with others who share common interests, is more fun than doing them on your own.” In conclusion, the Sisters’ believe that in a Senior Living Community, one’s life is being enriched since there are so many interesting and varied activities you can participate in, all while making new friends. When a person is happy and active, their longevity is ultimately increased because they are healthier. Whether you are fully independent or require assistance, there are so many options out there that you never know what you might find!  12/16/2019 0 Comments Holiday Baking Tradition 
Many family traditions take place during the Holiday season, for my family it is baking special holiday treats. One treat in particular is my great grandmother’s shortbread cookies.
As a child I used to help my mom roll out the cookie dough and cut out festive shapes with a cookie cutter. Once they came out of the oven and cooled, we would roll them in sugar, which made them look very sparkly and festive! My mom always did her Holiday baking early so there would be one less thing she would have to worry about over the hustle and bustle of the season. This was the ‘not so fun’ part, she would freeze the cookies and we were NOT allowed to eat any until Christmas! Just knowing they were there, inside the freezer waiting to be devoured, made it extra tempting. 
I remember when I was a little bit older and took the bus home from school, I would get home before my parents did from work, and I would sneak one or two cookies here and there. I am sure they always knew about it- in fact, they probably did the same haha! Once Christmas time hit, there were always a “few” less cookies then we started with.
I have never had a Christmas without these shortbread cookies, my great grandmother baked them with my Nana, my Nana baked them with my mom, and my mom baked them with my sister and I. Now as an adult I have continued this tradition with my two boys and I hope that when they are older, they continue this tradition with their families as well. 
Here is the recipe:
Granana Mary's Shortbread Cookies
Cream butter and sugar together. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt. Sift the dry ingredients into the butter and sugar little by little. Sprinkle some flour on the counter and put a bit on the rolling pin and begin to roll out the dough. Try not to knead the dough too much, as it will become tough. Use cookie cutter shapes of your choosing. 
Bake for 10-15 minutes (ovens may vary).
In a food processor, blend some white sugar slightly so it is still a bit grainy but finer and more powdery than usual. Once the cookies have cooled, roll them into the sugar until both sides are covered and they shimmer in the light. 
If they are made right, the cookies will literally melt in your mouth with an abundance of sweet and salty flavours!
Enjoy with a cup of tea or hot chocolate! Many family traditions take place during the Holiday season, for my family it is baking special holiday treats. One treat in particular is my great grandmother’s shortbread cookies.
As a child I used to help my mom roll out the cookie dough and cut out festive shapes with a cookie cutter. Once they came out of the oven and cooled, we would roll them in sugar, which made them look very sparkly and festive! 
My mom always did her Holiday baking early so there would be one less thing she would have to worry about over the hustle and bustle of the season. This was the ‘not so fun’ part, she would freeze the cookies and we were NOT allowed to eat any until Christmas! Just knowing they were there, inside the freezer waiting to be devoured, made it extra tempting.
I remember when I was a little bit older and took the bus home from school, I would get home before my parents did from work, and I would sneak one or two cookies here and there. I am sure they always knew about it- in fact, they probably did the same haha! Once Christmas time hit, there were always a “few” less cookies then we started with. 
I have never had a Christmas without these shortbread cookies, my great grandmother baked them with my Nana, my Nana baked them with my mom, and my mom baked them with my sister and I. Now as an adult I have continued this tradition with my two boys and I hope that when they are older, they continue this tradition with their families as well.
Here is the recipe: Granana Mary's Shortbread Cookies
Cream butter and sugar together. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt. Sift the dry ingredients into the butter and sugar little by little.
Sprinkle some flour on the counter and put a bit on the rolling pin and begin to roll out the dough. Try not to knead the dough too much, as it will become tough. Use cookie cutter shapes of your choosing. Bake for 10-15 minutes (ovens may vary) 
In a food processor, blend some white sugar slightly so it is still a bit grainy but finer and more powdery than usual.
Once the cookies have cooled, roll them into the sugar until both sides are covered and they shimmer in the light. If they are made right, the cookies will literally melt in your mouth with an abundance of sweet and salty flavours! Enjoy with a cup of tea or hot chocolate! 
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