As one of the premiere active retirement communities in the country, it's no wonder that the overwhelming number of Garlands members are aging remarkably well. This is thanks impart (if I do say so myself!) to our highly personalized fitness program. A remarkable 75 percent of Garlands members actively participate in a regular fitness program! As their trainer, I try to tailor a plan to meet each individual resident's needs-something that caters to their likes, personalities and abilities.

We offer something for everyone-from Tai Chi, Body Flow, Body Pump, Walking club, pool aerobics and conditioning classes. Plus our cardio and weight equipment are top notch! This blog will detail all the fun exciting fitness activities going on at The Garlands.

I hope to see you back!

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Chicago estate planning, chicago retirement community, Fitness and Activities

Join The Garlands Phase II Founders Club and enjoy the following benefits:

- 10% pre-opening savings
- An average $96K savings over opening day
- Discount more than compensates for most lowered home values
- Best locations/views
- Best selection

Plus take advantage of The Garlands complimentary "All the Right Moves" home staging and relocation services. Then relax and dream of living your best life at The Garlands.

To learn more about becoming a Founders Club member, call 847-304-1996.

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago assisted living, Chicago independent living, chicago retirement community, Midwest retirement home, upscale retirement community, upscale senior living

Our daughter Jennifer said to our grandchildren, nine and five, "Buckle up Zachary and Natalie. We're going to Langendorf Park for a picnic and then for a swim in their great pool."

Natalie, using her best fake cry, sobbed,"I want to swim in The Garlands pool. I like it."

Grandma Rita says, “Our pool is closed for repair. You'll like the Park pool, believe me."

"Ready to launch," shouts Zachary. "All seat belts attached."

Ten minutes later, we parked at the Langendorf. The children ran off to the slides and climbing bars while we prepared a summer picnic: hot dogs, bratwurst, soft drinks and desserts. After lunch, the walking trail helped us work off some of the food.

Langendorf has a wading pool and the main pool. The slides and high jumps excited the grandchildren. Zachary and others made several dozen leaps and slides from the highest points. Natalie, not to be out done, climbed nearly to the top. Sun and activity tired us, ending a wonderful day.

Next day, after church on Sunday, we drove north thirty miles to Volo to see the unusual quaking bogs and then on to the Volo Auto Museum. The children found the bogs a fun playground, although not as exciting as the auto museum. Hundreds of old cars, refurbished like new, sat bumper to bumper for easy inspection. Grandpa saw a 1957 Chevrolet Impala just like the one he had owned. Good for Grandpa, but the grandchildren loved the cars from movies like the Scooby Mobile, Nightrider's Kitt, Flintstones car, Batmobile, etc.

Again, the hours evaporated. We must head home. No time to visit our favorite restaurant Le Vichyssois in Lakemoor suggested by Vette Kell or to the Moraine Hills State Park, site of a glacial moraine in McHenry County that Hal Guenther praises. We will have to wait another day to make these short trips with our family.

Later in the week, Rita said to me, "What a great weekend we had with the grandchildren, now, I've set up a double-treat for us."

"Double-treat, what can that be?"

She responds, "Two visits on Wednesday: the Chicago Botanical Gardens and the show at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire."

"Oh, that's too much in one day."

"No. It's easy. We drive East on Lake-Cook Road twenty miles to the gardens, have late lunch, see the exhibits and when ready drive fifteen minutes to the theater for a performance at Marriott's Theater-in-the-Round. It worked out just as she planned a great introduction to Chicago's famous gardens and the Marriott's renowned theater.

Musing a bit about our Senior Living Community and its great location, I remembered that the following Sunday The Garlands courtesy limousine would drive us to the Barrington railroad station to take a train to Chicago for the Sunday matinee of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, an hour ride at no charge for seniors.

Location is a real asset to us here at the Garlands!

See Jack, Rita and the Kids below at the Volo Auto Museum.

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, active senior living, Jack and Rita, senior living, upscale retirement community

If you've been keeping an eye on the construction project in our backyard, you've seen that the exterior--with the exception of gutters and balconies--is complete. Now that the majority of the exterior envelope as well as the roof assembly, mechanicals, electrical and plumbing rough--in is finished, work on the interior is proceeding right on schedule, including drywall taping and sanding, ceramic tiling and painting.

As you may recall, the building is divided into six vertical sections containing four floors of various-sized units. The first vertical section, at the east end of the building, will be complete in approximately 60 days. Moving east to west, the remaining five vertical sections will be carefully choreographed so work will proceed efficiently floor-by-floor within the subsequent vertical stacks. When blocks of units are completed, a rigorous punch-list process will ensure that the new residences meet the highest standards expected at The Garlands. Meanwhile, since they do not align with the units on the floors below, separate dedicated work crews will be assigned to the 16 penthouse suites. The penthouses have numerous atypical construction conditions related to the sloped roof trusses that create the opportunity for aesthetically striking ceiling conditions within many of the units.

Labels: active retirement communities, Alzheimer's Care, Chicago estate planning, Midwest retirement home, Phase II

It was emotional and exciting. Thirty or more members and staff rallied around Cheryl and Gary Karlin, Producers, to fulfill their idea of an Academy Awards evening. Eight Oscar winning movie scenes, selected by members, filled the program.

George and Vally Flint, former directors and producers of the Garlands Play-Reading Group, flew in from Florida to watch their former actors emote for the new Producers and present the Oscars.

Cocktails and hors-d'oeuvres started at 5 PM in the Robbie Lounge. Actors in dress costumes mingled accepting encouragement and good wishes. The enthusiasm continued to the Winslow for a candlelight dinner then on to the walk down the red carpet with photographers and paparazzi.

Actors, experts in sound and lighting and the back stage crew came together to provide wonderful entertainment. The scene group leaders selected the props, costumes and songs. Our Don Reed and his daughter Sarah Maple created audio/visual background, initiated music and aided voice projection.

The eight Oscar scenes for the evening were Gigi, Casablanca, All About Eve, Rear Window, Stagecoach, An Affair To Remember, Arsenic and Old Lace, and Fiddler On the Roof. Arsenic and Old Lace won the audience vote for best performance. The winning actors: Betty Guthrie, Carol Holmes, George Flint, Vette Kell, Jeanette Hidding and Marilyn Van Huss rushed happily to the stage to receive their Oscars.

We thank Cheryl and Gary Karlin for their creativity, stamina and persistence in fashioning the marvel of our own Academy Award Show. Finally, the Garlands management earned high praise for their positive support making available actors, workers and facilities.

Too many members and staff to name individually, however our active retirement community thanks them all for the joy created. Happily, a video by Jackie Rubashkin of Barrington High School recorded it all.

Jack Roche

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, active senior living, Jack and Rita

We have recently completed our annual member satisfaction survey, and are excited about the results! We are appreciative of our membership's honest feedback and in general, the news is good (actually, great!). Although there is always room for improvement, we are pleased to report that:

• The average score in 99% of the categories rated "Exceeded Expectations"

• The average score for overall satisfaction among Independent Living members was 3.96 on a scale where 3.0 or higher means "exceeds expectations."

Although the numbers are wonderful, I'm most please by the kind comments we received from our residents:

"I never expected service of this caliber."

"The cleanliness of the entire community is outstanding. A tribute to all the staff involved."

"The work done by staff is excellent. I have had nothing but superior work from every single person. I am always greeted with a cheerful voice early in the morning and late at night!"

"We continue to believe that The Garlands is one of the finest CCRCs in the country.
We are very pleased that we made the decision to live here."

"I am proud to tell my friends where I live, and they seem to be impressed. You are doing a wonderful job."

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, Chicago assisted living, Phase II, retirement community

You just won't believe it, because I don't. After sniffing out the entire neighborhood, just maybe I have found a new companion. I can even "humm..." in the rain when told to go outside. Why? Well, I'll put my paw to a pen and tell you all about my good luck!

After my last letter, I received an unbelievable fantastic response. The writer, a poodle named Antoinette, "just call me Toni," enclosed her picture. She looks yummy enough to chew on, and I dream about slobbering her with more kisses than one can count. Actually, her beauty defies description, and I'll even venture to guess that her groomer comes from France!

Not only did she offer T.L.C. for my painful paw, but she is eager for a play date with just the two of us. She even told me that her old boyfriend is past history. How lucky can a guy get?

Her letter has a special hiding place right under my bed, close to my thumping heart. Do you suppose that they have a pacemaker for dogs? Forget e-mail, Twitter, even Facebook. A letter means so much more for you can keep it forever. And this piece of paper will never be chewed up!

There is one problem, however, that I want to share with you. When and if we meet nose-to-nose, will she accept my funny face? To be honest, I lack those pedigree papers that say that your parents came from special families. Mine, however, so I've been told, were so much in love that it didn't matter, even though my Dad was a Shih Tzu and Mom, a Bichon. I guess you might say their blood lines were "black and white" while Toni is as blue as blue can be.

No doubt, Toni's caregiver, C. Peterson, who owns a greeting card company, sent her to a fancy boarding school, while I had only two hours with the "Dog Man" in Arizona, and he didn't teach me anything (so I've been told). In other words, we come from two different worlds. Do you suppose that matters?

And now I am planning our first meeting on the bridge overlooking our garden pond. Let's hope the bleeping bull frog and honking geese won't scare her away. Wish me luck!

Now, please forgive my abrupt departure for breakfast is ready. And guess what I've barked for: a new tasty passion...French toast. Bow wow!

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, Chicago assisted living, pd the dog, upscale retirement community

Garlands member Mary Barnes studied with Barnet Rubenstein at the School of Museum of Fine Arts as well as Fred Berger from the Evanston Art Center. Mary attended Bowling Green University in Ohio and the Art Institute of Chicago. In addition, Mary has won numerous awards and honors for her work and has exhibited her work in many museums across the country. An accomplished painter, Mary is generously teaching other members in the art of still life painting.
We're proud to have such a talent artist among us, and excited to see what other budding painters she might unveil with her class!

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago assisted living, Fitness and Activities, upscale retirement community

Dancing is great for body & soul, and Garlands' members aren't shy about cutting the rug on a regular basis. Staying young at heart is a big part of active senior living, and as such, dancing is a big part of The Garlands Lifestyle. Check out some highlights from our recent Big Band Dance.

Sam and Scootie Jeffers show their footwork on the dance floor.

Members have fun doing the Chicken Dance.

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, Chicago independent living, Fitness and Activities

The Garlands' dining program works like a charm primarily because of its several restaurant options and flexible seating arrangements. Members have great independence to choose when, where and with whom to dine.

The fact is that it is more than an eating plan; it's a "social plus" for the whole community. Most members belong to the plan. The $300 a month for food and drinks is included in the monthly service fee, making it a simple plan that creates great social interaction among the members.

Members call each other to share mealtime together. There is no "picking up the tab" when you invite someone to eat with you--they have their own dining dollars. Members make reservations, when they want to, for a table of two through eight, based on their grouping for the evening. No need for reservations but many choose to do so. The most frequented are the Grill and Winslow restaurants while the Roycroft is our gourmet, special event venue. The Café shop has coffee and tea available during the day and occasional light dinners.

Each member has someone in their household arrange and keep track of dining commitments--a social director. Happy Hours at the Timbers Lounge for the Grill on Mondays and at the Robie Lounge for the Winslow on Wednesdays spur the camaraderie among members before dinner.

We gather, on occasion, at a host's apartment for cocktails, hors-d'oeuvres and great conversation before, and sometimes after dinner. The dining program and happy hours encourage mingling and getting to know each other better.

A fun time is at the end of the month when those who have not spent the entitlement try to cover the minimum. Many buy extra meals for their freezer to eat later. Most of the fun happens when neighbors decide to reach their mark by buying bottles of wine, often happily shared, to help top-off the unspent balance. Our upscale retirement community has a lot going for it, especially the dining program.

Jack Roche

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, chicago senior living, Jack and Rita, senior living, senior retirement communities

The number of retirees that are taking control of their health and joining fitness centers is growing every year. In this installment we will look at how a traditional senior fitness program affects your balance. The chief reason people go to the health club is because their daily lives don't provide enough movement to keep them in good shape. The various machines at the club help fill that activity void. Since we don't have very much time, we try to fit an entire day's worth of movement into an hour or two at the fitness center. Walk on this. Pedal that. Pull this down. Press that up. Go home.

The only problem is that when you use machines for cardio and strength training, you are leaving out one crucial ingredient--balance. Think about the treadmill. You are walking, but you are also holding tightly onto the handles to keep you balanced. There are no curbs or potholes to dodge, no rabid dogs to get away from, just you in a perfectly controlled and unchallenging environment. How about a typical exercise bike? What are the chances that it might tip over? I would say about slim to none. As far as balance goes, most exercise bikes are about as demanding as lying on the couch. What about strength machines? Almost all of them require you to sit during use. Some even have seat belts (why don't they include cup holders while they're at it).

You get the idea. If you use these machines like many seniors do, you may become strong, and you may improve your endurance, and I think that's great. Unfortunately, they won't do much for your balance. Having strong muscles and good endurance without good balance is like having a truck that has four hundred horsepower and gets fifty miles per gallon but tips over every time you turn a corner.

That's why you need to train your balance with balance exercises. Better balance will enhance the benefits of both strength and cardio training. In just ten minutes a day, you can train your sense of balance to keep it in shape or even improve it. You can do balance exercises at your health club or in your home whenever it's convenient for you.

Stay tuned for Part 4 where we'll take a closer look at balance exercises.

Mike Ross
Author of "The Balance Manual"
balance-exercises.com

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, better balance report, Chicago assisted living, Fitness and Activities, senior living facility

The Gallery at The Garlands Hosts Grace Community Homeschool Co-op

Thirteen teenage, home-schooled artists from the Grace Community Homeschool Co-op will show their collective work at The Gallery at The Garlands. The show opens on Thursday, June 18, with an artist reception from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and runs through June 24. It is open to the public any day from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, please call The Garlands concierge at 847-765-3000.

The young artists made oil and acrylic paintings based on photographs they took of someone else's shoes. Red pumps, combat boots and a baby's first walking shoes are a few of the footwear choices that made it to canvas.

"The students' work is quite exceptional," said Kathleen McCann of Barrington, an accomplished artist who has taught and inspired these students once a week over the past year. The collection of 46 pieces also includes still life, abstract and scenery paintings.

The 13 students are homeschooled in area suburbs such as Crystal Lake, Algonquin, Fox River Grove and South Barrington but meet once a week as part of the co-op. The show at The Gallery at The Garlands is a real a boost for their self-esteem.

"The children get to see the artwork they produced framed and displayed in a fine, high-quality setting," McCann said, adding that they are excited to see how The Garlands residents, and the Barrington-area community will respond to their work.

"I am of the belief that art helps people find themselves, and these kids have grown from their art experience" McCann said.

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, active senior living, garlands blogger

The Card Players by Paul Cezanne

The Card Players

Thursday afternoons: two o'clock--sacred time for the men at this active retirement community. Usually, fourteen gather before two o'clock to draw for a seat at the different tables. The men chat; little gossip, lots of sports, hints of politics but many "Ifs"--if I'd only caught a club, if I'd held onto my ace, if I'd stayed-in--I'd a won. Maybe! Marvelously, poker focuses on improving short term memory. After every hand, we test each other by asking, who dealt? Six or seven at the table think about it. Eventually a player recalls, and the game goes on. Constant memory exercise.

Good card games have great characters playing. Let's mention some of them: Organizer is first to set up poker-chips for each player. $10 required to play and another $5 in case of a bad-luck day. Lose $15 and you're out. This happens. Chips: blue 50¢, red 25¢ and white 10¢. Small money, lots of fun. Creator's long chamber list of crazy 'Dealers Choice' games maintains our interest. Some players get in a rut dealing the same game over and over again, seldom playing other great games, especially from Creator's list

Avocateur thinks winning is just the luck-of-the-draw and talent is baloney. Studying the case proves talent wins over time. Impatient signals a good hand by asking others to bet quickly--he's never that attentive with a weak hand. Analyzer fingers his cards tenderly, peeks at them repeatedly, verifying their strength before betting and then cajoles all to play properly.

Betting patterns tell stories about players' hands. Dropper quits game after game waiting for good cards. When Dropper, raises or bets--look-out--he's loaded and will take your money. Cautious, on the other hand, is always figuring the odds of winning, like trying for a bridge grand slam. Cautious drops out of some games with a winning hand--his losses are treasured by all.

The subtleties of poker are often spoiled by players dropping out-of-turn because of a poor hand. Bluffer tries now and then to win by bluffing, but is foiled when Impatient throws his hand down, out-of-turn, forcing the weak player before him to call Bluffer just to keep him honest.

Avocateur now respects evidence showing there is more to winning at poker than luck alone. There are regrets that other remarkable players like North Star, (a natural card counter), Accountant, (alertly tracks bets and antes) and Seven (lucky number fan) sat at the second table. Names have been changed to protect the Bluffer. Sharing this active senior life is a special joy for all. Come join us Thursdays.

Jack Roche

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, Jack and Rita, senior retirement communities, upscale senior living

Members gathered around the concierge desk at the reception center waiting to launch our journey to the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. We received our prepaid Orchestra tickets and invitation to have "Lunch with the Maestro." The Garlands bus arrived about 11 AM driven by one of the Member Services drivers who courteously placed a portable step at the bus door to make it easier for everyone to enter.

Seventeen of us chose seats randomly with spouses or friends. Our driver loudly welcomed seventeen and promised to return seventeen. The early departure time assured the on-time arrival for lunch and the anticipated comments by the Music Director, Robert Hanson, about the scheduled composers.

Off we went on schedule for the forty minutes drive to Elgin. Quick 'how are you' and 'hellos' attuned all for the ride. We settled into our own conversations about family, friends and the performance. Many good comments about the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and its Conductor Robert Hanson could be heard.

The bus pulled in front of the Heritage Ballroom in downtown Elgin, just across from Hemmens Theatre, where our lunch and lecture would be held. A friendly docent led us to a large bright hall with round tables each seating ten. We chose a table close to the front in order to hear the lecture better. Lunch was served promptly, and during desert Music Director and Conductor Hanson talked about the two great composers featured: Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich. He related stories about their lives and contrasted their philosophies and composing techniques. His talk was well received.

Most of the Garlands member seats were in row L center, just about perfect. A few of our members had seats in front of us, but the group was together. Musicians arrived, tuned their instruments and arranged their scores for the performance. The Conductor entered quietly to much applause, bowed politely and started the concert: a Tchaikovsky Concerto and a Shostakovich Symphony. Two hours of great music made wondrous our Friday afternoon.

The waiting Member Services driver helped seventeen back to their seats, counting a second time to be sure no one was left behind. Then, we departed for Barrington. All were pleased with the trip, the lunch and lecture, and above all, the quality performance by the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. Our members continued the discourse about the talents of the composers--Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich. Back to our upscale retirement community just after four, and pleased with our day--nap-time beckoned.

Labels: active retirement communities, chicago retirement community, Jack and Rita, Midwest retirement home, upscale retirement community

Economic uncertainty has left many retirees feeling less secure about their nest eggs. However, most agree that with careful retirement planning, financial security can be attained and maintained. Now is the perfect time to consider an option that pays dividends--The Garlands lifestyle.

Peace of Mind Regardless of The Economy

When so much in the world is uncertain, it is comforting to know that at The Garlands you are part of an active retirement community that offers a fixed rate of return on your investment and a clear and convenient care path in the event of future health care needs. Garlands residents enjoy a consistent return on their upfront investment and predictable costs regardless of the economy. They also appreciate the peace of mind they experience knowing they have access to assisted living and skilled care right on campus should they ever need it.

Assurance in Uncertain Times

Plus, at a time when proceeds from the sale of a home are the primary capital one would use to move to a retirement community, we can help. The Garlands lets you secure your future in one of the few remaining Phase I Garlands residences today while at the same time offering the flexibility you need to secure a buyer for your current home. You can actually move into The Garlands now and extend your entrance fee payments for up to two years while you sell your home. During this time you can establish equity toward your Garlands investment. In addition to this low-risk convenience, we also recognize that preparing for a move of this magnitude takes a significant effort. We can make your life easier. From selling your home, to helping you decide what stays and what goes, to packing...The Garlands will support you every step of the way.

Long-Term Stability

The Garlands lifestyle offers long-term stability and pays the additional dividends of maintenance-free living, reliable personalized service, engaging social and educational pursuits, convenient dining programs, delightful amenities and access to health care support as needed. While we remain sensitive and mindful of our country's financial concerns, we encourage you to maintain a long-term view. Resist putting your retirement living plans on hold...rather, secure your future at The Garlands.

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Chicago estate planning, chicago retirement community, Phase II

I enjoy the walk from my apartment to the other buildings and activity sites of our upscale retirement community: Resource Center, Surround Sound Theater, Performing Arts center, Fitness Center, the bank and gift shop etc. The pleasurable beauty of the Prairie style architecture, and the cool ceiling and door lighting fixtures are never tiring.

I marvel at the information freely given by my neighbors at each door I pass. I use the name plaques to reinforce my memory and visualize those I know. For those I have not yet met, I embed the name in my mind, until I meet that neighbor.

But, my favorite pleasure is stopping to closely look at the Little Shelves outside most doors. Take a look yourself and discover some of the special interests of your neighbor. The Little Shelves reveal a lot. I gaze at shelf photos of members and family--many grandchildren. Some photos of good times, long past, and good times just lived. How nice they look, then, now and during the passage of time.

Squeezed onto these Little Shelves are flowers, real & artificial, highlighting the seasons or special meanings. Many arrangements, carefully designed, are beautiful. One will never go hungry during a stroll around our buildings because members offer a variety of sweets to those passing by: chocolates and hard candy. Like the flowers, the types of candy differ at Easter, Halloween & Christmas.

The souvenirs, on the little shelves, hint at the travels taken or at some special love of the decorator. There are sculptured birds and grand elephants from India. Dolls displayed for beauty or as a reminder, to oneself, of a reassuring security needed long ago.

Yes! There are stories on the Little Shelves, interesting stories worth knowing about. Ask your neighbor tomorrow about their memories resting quietly on their Little Shelves.

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Chicago estate planning, chicago retirement community, Jack and Rita, upscale retirement community

As one of the premiere active retirement communities in the country, The Garlands has a first rate theater. And now, the wait is over! Director George Flint named the full cast for the play reading of the three-acts play, The Man Who Came to Dinner, written by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart. Just as on Broadway, many actors and actresses were excited with their parts, while others were disappointed having personally visualized a different choice role. Some did not win a desired spot in the play reading.

George, a former Owner/Director of the Renaissance Theater, San Diego, CA commented to the aspirants at the casting session about the acting profession. Paraphrasing George--one learns quickly the exhilaration and despair of the Theater. Joy comes easily when winning a part, while rejection hurts. It is the way of life in the Theater that must be managed.

The movie, released on New Years Day 1942, starred Monty Woolley, Bette Davis, Ann Sheridan and Jimmy Durante among others. Here is the list of our Thespians selected by George.

Congratulations to all!

Sheridan Whiteside....................Dick Matre
Mr. Stanley.................................Jack Roche
Mrs. Stanley...............................Mary Betz
June Stanley...............................Esther Marshall
Richard Stanley..........................Carl Peterson
John............................................Don Reed
Sarah...........................................Cary Loomis
Miss Preen..................................Carol Holmes
Mrs. Dexter/Mrs. McCutcheon..Betty Guthrie (Both parts)
Maggie.........................................Rita Roche
Bert Jefferson..............................Chuck Allison
Lorraine.......................................Janet Hansen
Dr. Bradley..................................Len Wickland
Harriet.........................................Marilu Matre
Banjo............................................Ron Silver
Beverly Carlton............................George Flint
Westcott.......................................Connie Porth
Expressman.................................Dave Guthrie

Rehearsals will be after winter vacation in March and April.
Opening Night: 7:15 PM Wednesday, April 22, 2009 in the Performing Arts Center.

Break a Leg!

Jack Roche

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Chicago assisted living, chicago retirement community, chicago senior living, Jack and Rita, upscale retirement community

One of our members recalls walking slowly out of the Louvre in Paris in 1973 promising that someday she would learn to paint. Years and many museums later it is still an unfilled promise.

Fast forward to 2006, she relocated to the active senior living facility, The Garlands of Barrington. There, to her joy, the activities department arranged a painting class, in water colors, for beginners. Visions of past self-promises challenged her--she joined the class at once.

Our member's first attempt to create and paint a mushroom was a disaster, in her mind, but others liked it. Now, her family has to decide who gets the mushroom. Her next painting, a pink orchid, was beautiful, and fortunately, the class continued--she kept painting.

The Garlands encouraged an exhibition of the students' art in our gallery outside the Performing Arts Center. Three walls of paintings, from present and prior member painters, hung there. The artists attended, answering questions to other members and guests, while all enjoyed wine and hors d'oeuvres. Some paintings were sold that evening, and our newest artist felt honored when an admirer of her work offered to buy one of her paintings. She declined to sell until her family selects their favorites. Our burgeoning artist is proud for keeping her long-ago promise

The Garlands currently has an oil painting class and next month will offer a drawing class--great chances for those who have "Promises to Keep."

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, chicago senior living, Jack and Rita, senior living facility, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement community

"The Wii Bowling Tournament" created a murmur of excitement as the many contestants and fans followed the signage to the game area. Wii is a game played electronically on TV sets. The Garlands chose the two large sixty inch TVs in the Grill and Timbers Lounge for the competition.

The mixed bowling contest between three senior retirement communities in the area, Sedgebrook, Lincolnshire and The Garlands included about eighteen players, eleven women. Community names identified both teams colorfully attired in long hip-length sports shirts which made for an impressive group.

"Virtual Bowling" truly lives up to its name. A player holds a remote control in hand, securely attached by wrist-strap. On the TV a complete bowling lane is shown with ten king-pins set up. The player first adjusts a guiding line on the alley remotely to direct his aim. She or he then holds down a trigger allowing them to swing the control at the TV. (Wrist-strap prevents the control from escaping to damage the TV) The control electronically releases a ball at the virtual pins. The TV, in brilliant color, shows accurately the path of the ball and records the hit with real sounds and actual pictures of pins falling in all directions.

Both teams, dominated by women, are dedicated and talented. This day, the Sedgebrook players showed a superior ability. The four person Sedgebrook team that I watched all bowled over 200 with a high of 245, truly remarkable scores. I noticed that our team was closing in on that level. Our congratulations go out to the Sedgebrook bowlers.

Wii bowling is almost real: the sounds of pins flying, the curving of the ball down the alley, the long view of pins, the replay close-up view of fallen pins and automatic scoring make it enjoyable to play and watch. It is easy for everyone to play--in fact, one of our most spirited woman players bowled from a wheel-chair.

Jack Roche

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago independent living, Jack and Rita, senior living facility, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement home

A new challenge, from the Lutheran Community, Arlington Heights, to compete playing eight-ball pocket billiards, home and away, was accepted. The new challenge reminded us of their first challenge a year ago. The Garlands had no team when the challenge arrived, but we accepted it at once. Our Director of Activities, Jill Lund, talked up the challenge and convinced eight of our braver men to volunteer for the battle. They practiced on occasion, but not seriously--maybe they were concentrating more on the bus ride and free lunch.

Excitement and optimism was high as the Garlands bus stopped at Lutheran Community. That's when our optimism was shaken because a dozen men greeted us, each wearing a green polo shirt with their team name printed on the front, and most of them carried their own private cue-stick in a dark leather case. These men were like professional billiard players not simple retirees. We lost five games to three there but then they came to the Garlands and destroyed us seven games to one. Later, the code expression W.C. (Who Cares) eased the temporary embarrassment of our team.

History has a way of repeating itself. This year we tried again and proudly went off to battle the Lutherans wearing our new colorful blue monogrammed game-shirts loaned to each Garlands player for the billiard tournament by our activities group. I couldn't tell whether our new flashy shirts impressed our opposition but I can tell you that their private cue sticks still bothered us because they looked so professional. They won at their home again, five games to three--we almost tied four games to four but scratched sinking the eight ball, an automatic loss.

Our active retirement community still doesn’t have an official team, but many of us actually practiced for the return match. Spirited and optimistic, our men could hardly wait for lunch to finish, in order to beat our friendly adversaries. We played 16 games, alas, they won 12 games to four. It was interesting to note that one of our two-man teams won three out of four games and that team practiced regularly. That must be the key--practice. Our billiard team has adopted the Chicago well-known sports lament--Wait 'till next year.

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, active senior living, Chicago assisted living, Jack and Rita, senior retirement communities

Rita and I walked rapidly to the Performing Arts Center (PAC) at the Garlands carrying our scripts of the three-acts play, The Man Who Came to Dinner, written by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart in the late 1930s. Garlands member George Flint, a retired surgeon and former owner and director of the Renaissance Theater in San Diego, CA. invited all members to try out for a part in his new play reading.

George aided by his wife, Vally, is the successful team now directing their third play reading for the Garlands. The members in the PAC, when we arrived, talked excitedly about the various characters in this lively comedy--each wondering which part they would get. Viewing the original movie a week earlier helped all to understand the play.

The full room now included members just watching how casting is done professionally. The talents and limitations of many members are well known to George because of prior performances; still all aspirants are welcomed equally. George, starting with the major roles, invites various members to read selected parts and then he encourages others, not selected, to try for any part--and many do.

The readings create much local humor and laughing caused by mistakes: mispronunciation, missing cues, reading someone else's lines... and more. It is great fun and camaraderie. George is very patient and understanding, but does stay on target guiding us to make real the script. After a day of guessing who gets which part, George will announce the chosen cast and rehearsals will begin.

The biased audience of members, relatives and town people will have an exciting time "Opening Night." Stay tuned for unbiased observations! :=)

Jack Roche

Labels: active retirement communities, active retirement community, active senior living, Chicago assisted living, Jack and Rita, senior retirement communities

As many families of our residents know all too well, Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive brain disease that destroys brain cells, causing problems with memory, thinking and behavior that are severe enough to affect most every aspect of one's life and the lives of those who care for them. One in eight Americans age 65 or older (13%) has Alzheimer's disease.

In honor of our Prarieview residents who have this disease, and in tribute to their legacies, Prairieview is a proud sponsor of the Alzheimer's Association's 2008 Memory Walk.

We would like to invite you to join the Prairieview team--comprised of Prairieview staff, family members and concerned members of the community--to "take steps" to end Alzheimer's Disease on Saturday morning, October 4 at the Lake County Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk.

The Alzheimer's Association, the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's Disease research and support, is advancing progress in prevention, treatments and an eventual cure and provides support for all those affected by the disease. The Memory Walk is a noncompetitive walk, and a festive event for families, coworkers and friends of all ages.

The Memory Walk, a 5K (3.2 miles) walk, is the nation's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research. The event will be held at Independence Grove, 16400 West Buckley Road in Libertyville. Optional transportation is available to and from The Garlands of Barrington on the day of the walk. Registration starts at 8 AM followed by an 8:45 AM opening ceremony and the walk itself.

To join Prairieview in taking steps to end Alzheimer's Disease, as either a walker or a sponsor, contact team captain Amy Nyberg at 847-852-3500. We would love for you to join us!

Labels: active retirement communities, Alzheimer's Care, chicago senior living, From the Executive Director, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement community

Where is the Greatest Generation Tom Brokaw wrote about? Some are here at The Garlands. I learned this at a November Veterans' day gathering.

One member, a Marine Captain landed in Japan after the Nagasaki bomb to assess damage, another was with Chennault's Flying Tigers group in Shanghai. A Navy man's destroyer lost its bow to a Kamikaze bomber at Okinawa, and a Merchant Marine helped safely guide ships through the oceans of the world.

Members flew for our various air forces in combat missions; transferred personnel and materials. Army member won a Purple Heart with oak leaf cluster fighting in Germany at Remagen Bridge. Navy man rode PT gunships into battle. A medic in France tended wounded during the Battle of the Bulge.

One of our ladies, a WAC (Women's Army Corp) gladly re-enforced our military medical needs in the United States and another member helped returning troops, refueling at Newfoundland, telephone anxious families.

The Greatest--friendly, interesting members: avid world travelers, bridge players, play reading actors, poker players, ladies charitable sewing, fancy car lovers, participants at dances, kite flyers, and, yes, Grandparents!

They rarely talk about their war, but there is a lingering pride for having helped defend our Country.

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago estate planning, Jack and Rita, senior living facility, upscale retirement community

A slow housing market continues to dominate news headlines. But here at The Garlands we're seeing a different picture than what the real estate news commonly reports.

Regionally, home sales are significantly better than national reports. Plus, the 55+ market is less stagnant than other demographics. Perhaps it is because this generation has realized so much appreciation in their homes over the years. As such, residents are choosing The Garlands at a pace that is greater than last year.

Another reason for this phenomenon is that we make it so easy. We offer several relocation resources--from help selling an existing home to assistance with packing--our expert Residency Counselors have the experience and the programs to help ensure a smooth move.

There has been strong interest in the Phase II Founders Club. The Founders Club offers our members a unique opportunity to take advantage of pre-construction discounts on Phase II units. Founders Club Members also enjoy the benefit of Membership at The Garlands as well as the ability to personalize their new home. Call today to speak with a residency counselor to secure your place in this landmark new addition to our upscale retirement community. Start planning for your future today--the timing couldn't be better!

Labels: active retirement communities, chicago senior living, Phase II, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement community

The Garlands of Barrington is currently offering Phase II Founders Club pricing and options to personalize finishing touches on a total of 85 new, private residences. The new homes are scheduled for occupancy starting as early as fall 2010 and include 20 one-bedroom, 49 two-bedroom and 16, 4th story, one-of-a-kind, two-and three bedroom Penthouse Suites.

Phase II Founders Club pricing, available now through the end of the year, reflects pre-construction savings of 15% over opening day prices. In addition to these savings, Founders Club members, those who make a deposit of 10% on their Phase II home in 2008, will have the opportunity to personalize their premium cabinetry, appliance and flooring selections.

The Garlands Phase II architects, Cochran, Stephenson and Donkervoet, Inc., have predominantly featured the Northern European influences, heavy timber accents and quality materials that have become the hallmark of The Garlands award-winning design. Each private Phase II residence, many of which feature one-of-a-kind floorplans, will boast 9-16 foot ceilings, gracious crown moldings and millwork throughout, a master bedroom suite and full gourmet kitchen with granite countertops. Floor-to-ceiling windows let the fantastic views and an abundance of natural light pour in. Floor plans range in size from 1,000 to over 3,000 square feet.

The Garlands Phase II residences will also features the high-quality, signature services that have become synonymous with The Garlands unique, active senior living lifestyle. Service plans include housekeeping, interior and exterior maintenance, landscaping, snow removal, dining programs, social, education and cultural programs, 24-hour security and emergency response system, utilities and membership to The Garlands Fitness Center. Plus, all Garlands members and their families have access to The Garlands amenities including the restaurants, pool, theater and spa.

For more information, please call 847-304-1996, visit the website at www.thegarlands.com or call to schedule an appointment to review Phase II floor plans. You can also keep track of construction progress and literally watch as these beautiful new buildings go up, all right on our new blog.

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, chicago senior living, From the Executive Director, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement community

Experience upscale senior living at The Garlands and immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture at the same time!

Enjoy a fun and relaxing evening at a Hawaiian Luau complete with a Hawaiian-inspired feast and a performance by the Royale Polynesian Revue featuring music and dance from Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti and New Zealand.

The Royale Polynesian dancers will entertain you with music and dance from Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti and New Zealand. Be dazzled by costume changes and a Don Ho-eque singer. Leis will be provided.

The Garlands Chef Hans has prepared an exceptional menu of greens with citrus segments, berries, Macadamia nuts and hearts of palm with rice wine vinaigrette; Hawaiian seafood salad; whole barbequed suckling pigs; char grilled barbequed pork tenderloin; char grilled Opakapa topped with papaya salad; pineapple coconut chicken; whipped sweet potatoes; fried rice; banana fritters; stir fried peapods, sprouts, sweet peppers and water chestnuts in a Teriyaki glaze; tapioca pudding with caramelized pineapple; coconut cream pie and a tropical fruit display.

The Luau will be held Friday, August 22, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at The Garlands of Barrington, 1000 Garlands Lane, Barrington, IL. The cost is $40 per person for dinner and entertainment with a cash bar. Reservations can be made by calling 847-304-1996 by August 19.

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago independent living, From the Executive Director, senior living facility, upscale retirement home, upscale senior living

The frequent visits with Jennifer, John and the grandchildren are a continuing joy. The swimming pool and billiards tables at "GaGa and Papa's big castle" make their trips from downtown Chicago to Barrington exciting, fun-filled adventures. Our son, John Michael's first visit from his home in Brooklyn, NY quickly convinced him that we had made the right choice.

Both children are very content that we chose an aesthetically pleasant and safe environment. The various social, educational and athletic activities, as well as, the nearby and on site health care facilities put them at ease. They like our new home, so much so that they suggested putting their names on the waiting list for this upscale retirement community!

--Jack

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago estate planning, Jack and Rita, senior living facility, upscale retirement community

This Phase II construction at The Garlands is going to set the standard for active retirement communities nationwide, and will shift perceptions of what independent senior living can be. As such it is a complex and sophisticated undertaking.

Since it's raining today, I thought I'd explain a little about our plan of attack. We are building the second phase of The Garlands in three vertical sections--starting with the east, moving to the center and finishing with the western portion of the building. We are building vertically vs. horizontally (meaning floor-by-floor) because we feel there are better economies of scale in doing so. In this manner we can have greater efficiencies with the tradespeople, meaning our lead trades can go in creating the "bones" of the first third of the building and then clear the first vertical, making way so the following tradesmen--mechanical, electric and plumbing--can start their work.

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago independent living, Phase II, senior living facility, upscale retirement home

We have every reason to believe we can meet our first milestone of having the first third of the building under roof by the end of the year. The process involves:

• Finishing the support columns in the basement
• Pouring the slab on grade in the basement
• Framing the eastern third of the building by floors 1-4
• Setting the roof truss system
• Placing the roof to "dry in" the areas beneath so that the following trades of mechanical, electric and pluming can start their work

This new Phase II project is going to change the way you think about active senior living, check back often for more updates!

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Chicago assisted living, Phase II, senior retirement communities

It's great for the gardeners, but not so great for construction of an upscale retirement community, i.e. The Garlands Phase II. Ours has been an unusually rainy summer, and has definitely kept our tradesmen from working on certain days. The good news is, we are not far off schedule and have every reason to believe that we will be caught up by September.

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago estate planning, Phase II, senior living facility, upscale retirement community

Things are happening fast with Phase II construction at The Garlands Chicago retirement community. The footings are now in place for the exit stairwells, and we've begun framing out the walls for the stairwells. We're also "going vertical" with our elevator shaft. In order for the elevator to go up 4 stories, it also has to go down an equivalent distance--that's a lot of digging! The elevator footings for the three elevator banks are now in place, and the pistons are being installed.

Labels: active retirement communities, chicago retirement community, chicago senior living, Phase II, senior retirement communities

The Garlands far exceeds other senior retirement communities we visited, with the exception of one community out East. In our minds, The Garlands architecture and common area furnishings offered more of a "resort-style" living vs. the "institutional-look" we found elsewhere. Many of the other communities we visited had six or seven floors and looked more like hotels. They were, frankly, boring.

We also favored The Garlands' choice of restaurants with the flexible seating arrangements and longer eating hours because it gave us the independence to choose when, where and with whom to dine.

Of final importance for Rita were the large windows that brightened The Garlands' spacious apartments in sunshine and rain.

Labels: active retirement communities, chicago retirement community, chicago senior living, Jack and Rita, senior retirement communities

We have frequently been asked why we chose the upscale senior living of The Garlands. We hope that our story may be of help to you as you consider a similar move.

First, a little background is in order. I retired from a career as a sales and marketing executive in a large corporation, and Rita is a retired operating room nurse. Time passes, and we decided to leave our large townhouse for a retirement community where we could avoid maintenance and repairs. The question became, with the option to move anywhere in the country, where should we go and to which community?

The invitations, from many active retirement communities, to have lunch and tour their facilities proved to be exactly what we needed to learn, compare and decide. Visits to nine or more retirement communities revealed many differences. Then our daughter, Jennifer, alerted us to The Garlands here in Barrington. After a few visits we followed our hearts from Philadelphia to Chicago and sealed our choice by selecting The Garlands.

-Jack

Labels: active retirement communities, Chicago estate planning, Jack and Rita, senior living facility, senior retirement communities, upscale retirement community

Kenneth E. Hurd, the renowned interior designer whose work includes the historic renovation of New York's Waldorf-Astoria and who created the interior design of the Garlands first phase will return for a Phase II Garlands engagement.

With Ken's leadership and vision, our goal is to create the same level of quality, finish and feel people have come to expect of The Garlands. We constantly receive compliments for the casual elegance of our interior design. As one of the preeminent active retirement communities in the country, we feel a responsibility to such high standards, and we're thrilled to have Ken back on board to help!

Labels: active retirement communities, active senior living, Alzheimer's Care, Chicago estate planning, chicago retirement community, Phase II