If you've been reading any of our blogs, you've certainly heard how much we enjoy musical entertainment by Stacy "Duke" Todd. So of course, everyone was very excited to find out that he'd be performing for our recent Valentine's Day Party. Stacy's musical career has been entwined with the Van-Dells since 1974, and his show takes fans back to popular 50's and 60's high energy songs. Way to go Stacy! We're looking forward to seeing you again very soon.

As soon as we round the corner into February, the Super Bowl is always on our residents' radar. So naturally the Rams and Patriots were the big topic of the week around the community. Everyone was eagerly anticipating our Sunday afternoon tailgate party. It was a terrific afternoon with plenty of snacks as we enjoyed the game and commercials while playing our favorite game—Card Bingo. Of course a little friendly betting was in order too. Ida, with her cup raised, was dead sure Tom Brady would lead the Patriots to victory again!

Transitioning to a new environment can be difficult no matter our age. The secret is making the effort to connect with others. Eileen & Marlene did just that and have learned to lean on each through their adjustments. It's allowed their connection to bud and blossom. These two have become terrific chums and now even schedule therapy together. It's our hope that our seniors make an effort to join scheduled activities and utilize our group dining setting to discover they share common life stories and interests.

It's always a joyous occasion for our close-knit community when we get to join forces with resident families to recognize milestones in the live's of our residents. Bridgette's recent 70th birthday was no exception. It was a great celebration with family and friends that was topped off with a sensational cake from Costco. You can bet it'll be on the menu for her party next year!

We had a wonderful turnout for an afternoon with one of our favorite performers— Rich Monroe. His talent is exceptional, but it's his warm heart and the personal attention he gives to residents that endears us to him. Oldes from Elvis, Sammy Davis Jr. and Johnny Cash were topped off with refreshing root beer floats.

Patty Martin is new to our facility and residents enjoyed her lovely voice recently as she performed some familiar favorites. We kicked back with cookies and warm tea for a snuggly afternoon. Everyone is looking forward to her return soon.

Husband and wife duo, Walter & Anita, enjoy a fine dining experience every day of the week at our community. They appreciate the stress-free environment with no transportation worries or meal preparation involved. There's always something for everyone in our main dining room—from home-cooked meals to entertainment and the pleasure of making new friends.

Each month we look forward to tail-wagging visits from Ms. Lucy. Handler, Maria Gruber, is passionate about dogs and adoption. She works tirelessly to find wonderful forever families and homes for dogs like Lucy. In the meantime, residents and staff shower Lucy with plenty of attention and adore her monthly calls.

Our holiday wouldn't have been complete without all the usual traditions to get us in the spirit, and Colerain High School delivered. The school's talented carolers brought so much joy through our hallways as they treated residents and staff to seasonal favorites. The musical procession ended in our main dining room with a energetic performance of "We Wish You a Merry Christmas", and we all enjoyed cookies and refreshments. Thank you Colerain High School!

We always enjoy a good party, so it's no surprise that everyone was looking forward to our 2018 Christmas party. And president of Liberty Health Care, Linda Black, certainly made sure we weren't disappointed. There was lots of fun, love and plenty of laughter. A delicious lunch was provided by Olive Garden and we had door prizes and raffles.Thank you Linda, it was a wonderful day and we appreciate all that you do!