The Gratitude Issue
Welcome to November, friends! As the crisp autumn air settles in, we’re cozying up with warm thoughts of thankfulness here at The Springs Living. This month, we’re all about celebrating the big and small joys that make life sweet.
First off, we want to say a heartfelt “thank you” for choosing The Springs Living as your home. You folks are the heart and soul of our community, and we couldn’t be more grateful to have you here.
In this issue, we’re diving into all things gratitude. You’ll find easy ways to add a little more thankfulness to your day, and reminders of those simple pleasures we sometimes forget to appreciate – like that perfect first sip of morning coffee or the laugh of a good friend.
Remember, gratitude isn’t just for the big stuff. It’s in the little moments too – a smile from the staff, a beautiful sunset view, or the comfort of your own cozy space. We’re so glad you’re here with us on this journey. Let’s celebrate the joy of our community and the adventure of growing older together. Here’s to another month of good times at The Springs Living!
Team
Drew Shaffer Executive Director dshafer@thespringsliving.com
Ryan Latour Business Office Manager rlatour@thespringsliving.com
John Heueisen Building Engineer jheueisen@thespringsliving.com
Candice Marcks Director of Community Relations cmarcks@thespringsliving.com
Dana Jensen Relationship Manager djensen@thespringsliving.com
Laura McCormack Director of Resident Engagement lmccormack@thespringsliving. com
Paul Lemke Director of Food & Beverage plemke@thespringsliving.com
Heather Brock Health Services Administrator hbrock@thespringsliving.com 1015 W Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98660 360.696.9400
Embracing the Rain
Before I moved to the Pacific Northwest, well-meaning friends warned me about the constant rain. “You’ll get depressed,” they said. “It’s gloomy 80% of the year.” Opinions, made up statistics, and a stereotype from a Milli Vanilli song from the 80’s, I say. When I actually looked into the science around the benefits of the rain, I was pleasantly surprised. We just have to reframe our thinking.
First off, did you know that rain acts as nature’s air purifier? As raindrops fall, they collect pollutants and allergens from the air. It’s like a refreshing shower for the atmosphere, leaving us with cleaner air to breathe. No wonder the air feels so crisp and invigorating after a good rain!
But the benefits don’t stop there. Apparently, spending time in cooler, rainy conditions can give our immune systems a gentle workout. It’s like nature’s way of keeping our defenses on their toes. And for those of us who enjoy staying active, here’s a fun fact: exercising in the rain can actually boost calorie burn. Our bodies work a bit harder to maintain temperature, making that walk along the Vancouver Waterfront even more effective.
Of course, the mental and emotional benefits of embracing the rain are just as impressive. The sound of rainfall has been shown to lower stress hormones and reduce anxiety. It’s nature’s own white noise machine! And have you ever noticed that unique, earthy smell that comes with rain? There’s actually a name for it - petrichor. Breathing it in can evoke positive emotions and memories.
So on days when you feel like braving the elements, join a walking group for a stroll along the Columbia River or over to Vancouver Lake. The landscape takes on a whole new beauty in the rain, with everything looking lush and vibrant.
On cozier days, you can bundle up and head to the patio at Fancho’s Public House or the Rooftop Terrace. There’s something magical about being outside but protected, watching the rain fall while staying dry. Or you can always retreat to one of our community rooms - Three Sisters, Four Peaks, or Aspen Peak - to enjoy the rainy view from inside.
Of course, embracing the rain does require a bit of preparation. IInvest in some good waterproof gear - a jacket with a snug hood, sturdy boots with non-slip soles, and rain pants for longer outings. Layering is key, starting with moisture-wicking fabrics and adding insulation as needed. And on particularly wet days, make sure to wear bright colors or reflective gear for visibility.
Far from being gloomy or depressing, the rain offers us a unique opportunity to enhance our physical health, elevate our mental well-being, and connect more deeply with nature and our community.
So the next time you hear that familiar patter against the window, why not consider it an invitation? There’s no wrong way to embrace the rain other than avoiding it. After all, here in the Pacific Northwest, it’s not just weather - it’s a way of life!
By Kevin Sage
Gratitude Around The World
Although “Thanksgiving” is obviously an American Holiday, gratitude practices are an integral part of cultures worldwide, reflecting the universal human desire to express appreciation and thankfulness. Let’s explore five diverse gratitude practices from different corners of the globe, each offering a unique perspective on how people cultivate and express gratitude.
Japanese Naikan Reflection
In Japan, the practice of Naikan, which translates to “looking inside,” is a structured method of self-reflection that cultivates gratitude and mindfulness. Developed by Yoshimoto Ishin in the 1940s, Naikan involves contemplating three questions:
1. What have I received from person X?
2. What have I given to person X?
3. What troubles and difficulties have I caused person X?
Practitioners typically focus on a specific person or time period, spending several minutes reflecting on each question. This process helps individuals recognize the support and kindness they’ve received from others, often revealing a stark contrast between what they’ve been given and what they’ve given in return.
The practice of Naikan encourages a shift in perspective, moving away from self-centeredness and towards a deeper appreciation of others’ contributions to one’s life. It’s not uncommon for participants to experience profound emotional responses, including feelings of gratitude, humility, and a renewed sense of connection to others
Indian Puja Rituals
In Hinduism, Puja is a devotional worship ritual that expresses gratitude and reverence to deities, gurus, or other aspects of the divine. While specific Puja practices can vary widely, they generally involve offering items such as flowers, food, or incense to a deity or sacred image.
A typical Puja might include:
1. Invocation: Calling upon the deity to be present
2. Offering: Presenting gifts to the deity
3. Chanting: Reciting mantras or prayers
4. Aarti: Waving a lit lamp before the deity
These rituals are not merely acts of supplication but expressions of profound gratitude for the blessings in one’s life. By performing Puja, practitioners cultivate a sense of thankfulness and connection to the divine, which often extends to a greater appreciation for all aspects of life.
Native American Thanksgiving Address
Many Native American tribes have long-standing traditions of expressing gratitude, often intertwined with their deep connection to nature. The Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Thanksgiving Address, known as the “Words That Come Before All Else,” is a powerful example of this practice.
This address is a comprehensive expression of gratitude that acknowledges and gives thanks to all aspects of the natural world. It typically includes:
- Greetings to the people
- Thanks to Mother Earth
- Gratitude for the waters, fish, plants, food plants, medicine herbs, animals, trees, birds, and celestial bodies
The address serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things and cultivates a deep sense of gratitude for the natural world. It’s often recited at the beginning and end of important gatherings, reinforcing the importance of gratitude in daily life.
Vietnamese Têt Trung-Thu Festival
In Vietnam, the Têt-Trung-Thu festival, also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, is a time for expressing gratitude, particularly towards children. Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, this festival has its roots in ancient harvest celebrations.
The festival includes several gratitude-focused elements:
- Honoring children: Parents show appreciation for their children through gifts and special attention
- Lantern processions: Children participate in candlelit processions at dawn, symbolizing light and hope - Mooncake sharing: Families and friends exchange mooncakes as gestures of gratitude and goodwill.
This festival serves as a reminder to appreciate the innocence and joy of childhood, as well as the importance of family bonds. It’s a time for Vietnamese people to express gratitude for the abundance in their lives and to strengthen community ties.
South African Ubuntu Philosophy
While not a specific ritual, the South African concept of Ubuntu embodies a profound practice of gratitude and interconnectedness. Ubuntu, often translated as “I am because we are,” is a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of community and mutual support.
Ubuntu encourages individuals to: - Recognize their interdependence with others - Show gratitude for the contributions of community members
- Express appreciation through acts of kindness and support
This philosophy fosters a culture of gratitude by emphasizing that individual success and well-being are inextricably linked to the success and well-being of the community. It encourages people to acknowledge and appreciate the role others play in their lives, cultivating a deep sense of thankfulness for the web of relationships that sustain them.
These diverse gratitude practices from around the world demonstrate the universal importance of expressing thankfulness. Whether through structured self-reflection, devotional rituals, comprehensive acknowledgment of nature, festive celebrations, or philosophical approaches to community, cultures worldwide have developed rich traditions for cultivating and expressing gratitude. By exploring these practices, we gain a deeper appreciation for the myriad ways in which gratitude can be woven into the fabric of daily life, enriching our relationships and enhancing our overall well-being.
Chef’s Corner
by Paul Bosch
Thanksgiving in our household growing up took on a unique twist, infused with our German heritage. Instead of the traditional turkey, we celebrated with my Oma’s beloved beef rouladen, a dish that filled our home with savory scents and memories.
As the holiday approached, the excitement began to build, as our whole family looked forward to every meal at home, but the holidays were even more special. My mom would be in the kitchen flattening the pieces of meat with a meat tenderizer, (something that I wished she had let me do as it seemed to be very cathartic for her) and laying them out getting them ready to build.
While my mom worked her magic with the rouladen, the ingredients for the sides that would complement our feast would be in process. She’d whip up her warm German potato salad, a family favorite, along with tangy and very aromatic braised red cabbage that balanced the richness of the rouladen perfectly. I remember how she’d always smile
as she worked these long days in the kitchen, as she reminding us of her own family’s traditions, all the while my dad also added a few stories of his upbringing back in Germany.
On Thanksgiving morning, the kitchen buzzed with energy. My brother and sister would help set the table, arranging our mismatched plates with care. We loved to bring out the special ones—those colorful dishes that had been passed down through generations. The atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter as we reminisced about past Thanksgivings, where our adventures and some of our misadventures in the kitchen had become part of our family lore.
When it was time to eat, the dining table overflowed with delicious food while the aromas that they created were tied to memories and stories that are still familiar and bring a sense of warmth and happiness to this day. Before we dug in, my dad would lead us in sharing what we were thankful for, a tradition that made us reflect on the bonds we shared.
After the meal, we’d migrate to the living room, where we’d indulge in a variety of special desserts: linzer torte, obsttorte, and an assortment of traditional German cookies. Even though my parents were not sports fans, we’d gather on the couch, each of us content, our hearts and stomachs full, and watch whatever football game was being broadcast that evening, most of us dozing off for a well-deserved nap after all of that cooking and eating.
Those Thanksgiving memories, woven together with love, laughter, and our unique traditions, remain a cherished part of who we are. They remind me of the beauty of blending cultures and creating new traditions that reflect our family’s journey. And as I prepare for each Thanksgiving, I hold onto those moments, eager to pass them on to my family and keep our family legacy alive.
Room Key
01 | Ground Floor
Fancho’s - PUB
Lobby – LOB
Pacific Ridge – PR
02 | Second Floor
Inkspot Art Studio – INK
Ranier Theater – TH
Three Sisters – 3S
Windriver Gym – GYM
Windriver Swim & Soak – POOL
Windriver Exercise Studio – ST
07 | Seventh Floor
Aspen Peak Restaurant – APR
Lillian’s Bistro – LIL
09 | Ninth Floor
Central Bark – BARK
Four Peaks Wine Bar – 4P
Table Rock Terrace – TR
Room Abbreviations, listed above, are used for each event. Starting times listed are the departure times for events leaving the community.
All details in the Lifestyle Magazine are subject to change. Refer to Digital Signage and the TSL App for the most current details, prices, and to sign-up for events.
NOVEMBER
GET SOCIAL
Morning Coffee
Wake up with a little morning java and meet your new neighbors and Springs team!
8:30am – Mon thru Fri -- PUB
Shanghai Rummy
Learn how to play this Rummy card game, based on gin rummy and a variation of Contract Rummy played by 3 to 8 players (also known as “California Rummy”).
10:30am – Mondays -- 3S
Knit Wits with Ryan
Join our Business Office Manager in chatting and knitting! Beginners welcome! We’ll provide materials and bubbly!
2:00pm – Wednesdays – CC
Black Jack
Kyle is the dealer and everyone gets free poker chips! Play for monthly prizes and bragging rights!
2:30pm – Tuesdays - 3S
New Resident Orientation
Our new resident orientation is your essential guide to life at The Springs. Department managers will be present to share community amenities and valuable tips. It’s your chance to get all your questions answered and feel right at home.
10:00 – Wed, Nov 6th & 20th -- 3S
Waterfront Walking Group
A great chance to meet your neighbors and get a little exercise on the beautiful Waterfront Path. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
2:30pm - Thursdays –– LOB
Chess & Cribbage!
Sunday is for gaming. Come join Kyle in a game of chess, or challenge another resident to a match of cribbage.
1:00pm - Sundays – 3S
Sunday Social
Bring the family or come to meet your neighbors for this “Something Yummy” Social every Sunday afternoon.
3:00pm – Sundays–– DEMO
Football & Trivia with Patrick
Watch the games on the screens in Fancho’s and Patrick will throw some trivia your way!
7:00pm - 11/4 and 11/21 - PUB
Nightcaps at Four Peaks
We’re starting out this new tradition for you! We’ll provide drinks the first week. Residents then take over by bringing their favorites.
7:30pm – Wed, 11/6 -- 4P
College Football at the Bar
Sit at the bar to enjoy complimentary appetizers while watching the game!
5:00pm - Saturday, Nov 16th - PUB
Happy Hour with Dani Joy & Perry
Stauffer
Dani Joy is a singer/songwriter whose world-influenced style is soothing and romantic, blending vintage jazz with latin rhythms and original music. She is most noted for her crooning alto vocals and tasteful fingerpicking ukulele accompaniment. Perry Stauffer enjoys recreating old time swing music on ukulele bass with Dani Joy. Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
4:00pm – Friday, 11/1 – PUB
Happy Hour with Juliet
Juliet is a multi-instrumentalist an award-winning vocalist who performs homegrown original songs that summon the ear and heart. Juliet vocalises jazz sophistication, country drawl, and blues/
soul depth. You’ll go on a fun adventure as she weaves storytelling of historical, traditional songs & classic country ballads along with her own life’s stories imbued in the lyrics of her songs. While singing Juliet plays guitar, dobro, and ukulele. Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
4:00pm – Friday, 11/8 - PUB
Hour with King Louis & Renato
Oregon Music Hall of Fame inductees organist Louis “King Louie” Pain and saxophonist Renato Caranto have been musical partners for over a quarter century now. The chemistry between these two world-class musicians is remarkable. They simply love playing together, and audiences love watching and listening to them. The spirit and spontaneity of King Louie & Renato Caranto is unmatched! Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
4:00pm – Friday, 11/15 – PUB
Happy
Happy Hour with Popular Demand Trio
Relive the great rock hits of the 50s, 60s, and 70s with this talented trio! Ron, Dan, & John are multi-instrumentalists & vocalists. Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
4:00pm – Friday, 11/22 – PUB
Happy Hour with Dover Weinberg
Dover Weinberg is an accomplished Rhythm and Blues player for over 30 years and was inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame in 2018. He’ll be rocking out our baby grand for the last happy hour of this month. Complimentary bites and sips for residents.
4:00pm – Friday, 11/29 – PR
Great Pie Competition: Pie and Chai! Enjoy homemade pies baked by staff and residents or enter your own in our Great Pie Competition for a chance to win a prize! Sous Chef Kendra Kelso will share Thanksgiving pie-making tips.
2:30pm – Wednesday, 11/13- Lillian’s
Town Hall
Our Executive Director shares updates about our new Springs community.
10:30am – Wednesday, 11/13 – TH
Coffee Chat with Drew
A casual morning coffee with Executive Director Drew Shaffer for an opportunity to learn more about your community and ask questions.
8:45am – Wednesday, 11/20 – 4P
Chef Chat
A monthly conversation with our Culinary Team! Learn about our upcoming menus and special events, and talk about your experience.
1:30pm – Wednesday, 11/20 – TS
Daily Movies
Enjoy a movie from the comfort of your own theater! We serve fresh popped popcorn on Friday nights, and for the weekend matinees. Check the movie calendar or Springs Living App for scheduled titles.
2:00pm & 7:00pm – Daily – TH
Symphony Night: Bocelli in Central Park
In this magical performance from the Great Lawn of New York’s Central Park, beloved tenor Andrea Bocelli performs alongside a host of all-star guests including Celine Dion and the legendary Tony Bennett.
7:00pm – Friday, 11/22 – TH
Broadway Matinee: “Into the Woods”
Meryl Streep stars as the witch in this Tony Award-winning musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine. It tells the story of a childless baker and his wife who venture into the woods to break a witch’s curse and have a child. The musical blends the plots of several Brothers Grimm fairy tales, including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Rapunzel.
2:00pm – Saturday, 11/23 – TH
Seasonal Sip and Shop
Kick off your holiday shopping with quality artisans featuring a variety of items for the whole family! Also enjoy Paul Lemke’s famous Gluhwein (hot spiced “glow” wine).
11:00am-2:00pm – Sat, 11/30 – 3S
STAY FIT
Total Body Tune-up
Build muscle, increase stamina, and improve balance. With targeted exercises and expert guidance, you’ll feel stronger, more confident, and ready to take on the day.
9:30am Mon, Wed, Friday – ST
Fitness at Your Fingertips
Meet our Fitness Coach Austin Karn and get a feel for our equipment and fitness spaces. Discover what kind of movement you enjoy!
11:00am – Monday -Friday – GYM
Circuit Training
Circuit training typically involves 8-12 exercises that target different muscle groups including sit to stands, seated crunches, dumbbell rows, and balance specific movements.
1:30pm – M, W, F – ST
Caffeinated Walking Group
Each week, Austin guides our walkers to a different coffee shop within the neighborhood and stop for beverages and chatting! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
8:30am – Tuesdays – LOB
Aqua HIIT
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) in water. This class involves short bursts of intense activity followed by brief periods of rest. The water’s resistance adds an extra challenge to the exercises.
9:30am - Tue & Thu – POOL
Yoga Class
Austin gracefully leads us through physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to improve the connection between the body and mind.
1:30pm – Tues & Thurs - ST
Tai Chi with Luis Osirio
This gentle form of exercise helps maintain strength, balance, and flexibility. Participate seated or standing. Luis Osorio is a joyful & skilled teacher. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
10:30am – Fridays – ST
New Tai Chi Instructor: Luis Osirio
Luis Osirio is a Certified Fitness Trainer thru ISSA and a Silver sneakers Instructor. He spent 21 years in the Army as a medic and decided to retire in the PNW with his wife. He is pictured with Master Suman Burkhas from Eugene, Oregon, the master trainer he works with.
Tai Chi is a distinctive form of exercise that involves movements primarily performed in a semi-squatting position. These movements require a continuous shift in the body’s center of gravity, incorporating posture control, trunk rotation, weight transfer, and strength training. All these features are advantageous for improving balance and strength, reducing the risk of falling and the fear of falling.
Floating Sound Bath
Experience ultimate relaxation as you drift in a serene pool as the soothing vibrations of sound bowls fill the space, guiding you into deep meditation and peaceful tranquility.
8:00am – Wednesdays – POOL
Waterfront Walking Group
A great chance to meet your neighbors and get a little exercise on the beautiful Waterfront Path. Dress for the weather. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
2:30pm - Thursdays – LOB
BE CREATIVE
Craft Lab: Autumn Dried Flower Wreath
Create a beautiful dried flower wreath for your door. Laura provides instruction and supplies. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
3:00pm – 11/4 - INK
Paint & Sip: Landscapes with Laura
A little vino. A little painting. A lot of fun! Join Laura in a step-by-step painting class. All levels welcome! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
3:00pm – 11/11 - INK
Paint & Sip: Paint by Number
Kyle provides beginner friendly paint-bynumber canvases to take off the pressure! All levels welcome! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
3:00pm – 11/18 - INK
Pouring Paint / Fluid Art Class with Kaitlin
Enjoy a painting technique that anyone can do! It involves slowly pouring acrylic paint mixed with a pouring medium onto a surface to create abstract, flowing designs. Kaitlin will guide the process. Sign up on the TSL app. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
2:00pm – 11/20 - INK
Paint & Sip: Zendoodling
Learn the simple, fun, and stress relieving art of zendoodling with Laura! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
3:00pm – 11/25 - INK
Crafty Family
Weekends are especially family friendly. Bring your family into the art studio for an intergenerational craft for all ages. 11:00am - Sundays beg. 10/13 – INK
Buttercream Autumn Cupcake Flowers
Learn different techniques for making buttercream flowers with Laura! Enjoy their taste afterwards! *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
2:00pm – 11/21 – DEMO
Play with Clay
Join us on Saturdays for free style working with clay! Have fun with this medium and see what unique creations you end up with!
2:00pm – Saturdays–
INK SPOT
Performing Arts Club
If you enjoy the performing arts, come gather with us to discuss your preferences for theater & concert outings, in-house performances, workshops, and more. Whether you’re into theater, dance, music, or film, your voice matters.
4:00pm – Wednesday, 11/27 – 3S
VENTURE OUT
Native American Masked Ceremony
In honor of Native American Heritage Month, you can experience magnificent Northwest Coast masks as they come to life in the glimmering firelight of a Kwakwaka’wakw ceremonial house. The Lelooska Family shares the songs, dances, stories, and masks which display the rights, crests, and privileges bestowed on them by the late Chief James Aul Sewid. Explore the museum and gathering hall before experiencing the ceremony. Dress warmly. Cost is $18. Return by 9:30pm. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
5:30pm – Saturday, 11/2 – LOB
Vancouver Symphony: Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto
Rachel Barton Pine returns by popular demand to perform the lush and lyrical Mendelssohn Violin Concerto, alongside Shostakovich’s boisterous and ironic Tenth Symphony. Cost is $47. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
2:00pm – Sunday, 11/3 – LOB
Election Day! Drop off Your Ballot
If you would like to drop off your ballot in person, sign up on the TSL app or with Concierge. We will gladly transport you to the nearest drop off!
10:30am – Tuesday, Nov 5th - LOBBY
Friday Lunch Outings
Sign up on the TSL app to explore some of the delicious culinary spots near The Springs!
11/1 Cecilia’s
11/8 Amaro’s Table
11/15 Beaches
11/22 Kalama McMenamins and Mountain Timber Market
11:30am – Fridays – LOB
Saturday Shopping: Route #1
New Seasons, Walgreens, Safeway, and Fred Meyer. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk. We’ve also mapped out pharmacies & dry cleaners on these routes. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
9:00am – 12:30pm 1st & 3rd Sat – LOB
Saturday Shopping: Route #2
Trader Joe’s, Chuck’s Produce, Costco, and Fred Meyer. We’ve also mapped out pharmacies & dry cleaners on these routes. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
9:00am – 12:30pm 2nd & 4th Sat – LOB
Scenic Drive
Enjoy the autumn colors along the Columbia Gorge, gaze at farms with the backdrop of a nearby mountain, or ride through a variety of quaint neighborhoods on this weekly excursion. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
1:30pm – Saturdays– LOB
Church Shuttle
We provide transportation to churches within an 8-mile radius of our community with services times at 9am and 10am. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
8:30am – 12:00pm – Sundays – LOB
Westwinds Community Band: “Salute to Veterans”
All welcome to this FREE concert presented at Mill Plain United Methodist Church. Sign up on the TSL app or with Concierge.
2:00pm – Saturday, Nov 9th – LOB
Hike Lacamas Lake with Dana
Put on your autumn outdoor gear, and enjoy a refreshing walk along this beautiful lake in Camas. We provide transportation. Sign up on the TSL app or with Concierge.
1:30pm – Thursday, Nov 14th - LOB
Vancouver Community Library
Hailed as a regional destination and downtown Vancouver’s sparkling gem, this 83,000 square foot library opened in 2011 and has been named a New Landmark Library by Library Journal. Ride with our shuttle each month to check out and return books. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
10:00am – Monday, 11/18 – LOB
Annual Vancouver Tree Lighting in Esther Short Park
Choose between walking to Terminal 1 at the waterfront to see Santa sail down the Columbia on the Tidewater Barge, or enjoy a shuttle to Esther Short Park to join the crowds for live music and refreshments. Santa helps light the official Vancouver Community Tree starting out this year’s holiday season! Carriage rides and family photos with Santa and Frozen characters will be available. *Sign-up required on TSL App or Concierge Desk.
4:30pm – Friday, Nov 29th – LOB
FOR THE MIND
Book Club
Share your favorite authors and titles and give input on our new Book Club using the Clark County Library’s list of titles.
2:30pm – Wednesday, 11/27 27 – CC
Trivia Bonanza
Test your knowledge against other trivia buffs in a battle of wits. Whether you›re a pop culture expert, history buff, or science whiz, there›s something to challenge everyone. Enjoy food, drinks, and friendly competition.
3:00pm – Thursdays – PUB
TED Talk
Learn about a variety of topics from these short, powerful presentations full of information and research from experts in various fields. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, and Design. Check the TSL app for weekly topics.
1:00pm – Mondays – TH
Star Trek Society
This Month’s Star Trek Is The fan favorite The Trouble With Tribbles: Tuesday, November 26 at 1:30PM in the theater with you host, John Tillinghast.
1:30pm – Tuesday, 11/26 – TH
GIVE BACK
Welcome Committee
Learn about residents moving in and participate in the welcome festivities.
10:00am –- Wednesday, 11/27 – 3S
Lifestyle Committee
Join us to brainstorm & even plan the calendar of events. This resident-led committee will meet monthly on the last Wednesday of each month.
10:30am – Wednesday, 11/27 – 3S
The Patrons
This club will meet regularly to discuss ideas and opportunities to support our local Vancouver community and the broader PNW.
11:30am – Wednesday, 11/27 – 3S
The Springs at the Waterfront Thanksgiving Meal
Thursday November 28th
Reservations
Required with concierge
Seatings
11:30am and 1:30pm
Multi-course plated meal
Free for Residents
Guests cost: $45 adults Or $75 with suggested wine pairings. Children $20
In the evening, we’ll be serving a lite sandwich option to allow our staff to enjoy the holiday with their family.
Daily Gratitude Practice
Starting a daily gratitude practice is more than just a trendy self-help fad—it’s a scientifically-backed method for improving your overall well-being. Neuroscience research has shown that regularly expressing gratitude can literally rewire your brain, strengthening neural pathways associated with positive emotions and reducing activity in areas linked to negative thoughts1.
For the skeptics out there, consider this: gratitude isn’t about ignoring life’s challenges or forcing positivity. Instead, it’s about training your brain to notice and appreciate the good things, no matter how small. This shift in focus can have profound effects on your mental and physical health. Studies have found that gratitude practices can lower stress levels, improve sleep quality, and even boost immune function2. But how do you start? Building any new habit takes time and consistency. According to habit formation research, it takes an average of 66 days for a new behavior to become automatic3. So, don’t get discouraged if your gratitude practice doesn’t feel natural right away. Stick with it, and you’ll likely start noticing benefits within a few weeks.
Here are three methods to kickstart your daily gratitude practice:
Gratitude Journaling
spend 5-10 minutes each day writing down three things you’re grateful for. Be specific and try to avoid repeating items. For example, instead of “my family,” write “the way my partner made me laugh during dinner.”
Gratitude Meditation
Set aside a few minutes daily to sit quietly and reflect on what you’re thankful for. Visualize each item in detail, allowing yourself to fully experience the associated positive emotions.
Gratitude Walks
Take a short walk each day, focusing on the positive aspects of your surroundings. Notice the warmth of the sun, the beauty of nature, or the kindness of a stranger you pass.
To dive deeper into the science and practice of gratitude, consider reading “Thanks!: How Practicing Gratitude Can Make You Happier” by Robert Emmons or “The Gratitude Diaries” by Janice Kaplan.
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity...it makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”
-Melody Beattie
3
EASY PNW HIKES
By Dana Jensen
As many of you know, I absolutely love spending time outdoors, especially exploring the beautiful trails we have right here in our backyard. There’s nothing quite like the fresh air, the sound of birds chirping, and the peacefulness of nature to lift the spirits. I thought it would be fun to share with you three of my favorite easy hikes that I think you’ll enjoy just as much as I do.
1. Battle Ground Lake State Park
Just a short drive away, Battle Ground Lake State Park is a true gem. This serene crater lake is nestled amidst a lush forest, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. The easy loop trail around the lake is about a mile long and fairly flat, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Why I love it:
The state park is covered by an evergreen forest that surrounds a crater lake of volcanic origin.
Scenic Beauty:
The reflections of the trees on the calm lake water are simply mesmerizing.
Wildlife Watching:
Keep an eye out for ducks, geese, and even the occasional deer.
Picnic Spots:
There are plenty of cozy spots to sit down and enjoy a picnic lunch, so pack a sandwich!
2. Lewis River Trail
The trails along the Lewis River offer some of the most picturesque views you can find. One of the easier sections starts near the Cedar Creek Grist Mill and follows the river’s gentle bends. The sound of flowing water accompanies you throughout the hike, which I find incredibly soothing.
Why I love it:
Peaceful Environment: The combination of river sounds and forest scenery is perfect for relaxation.
Historic Sites:
You can stop by the historic grist mill, which adds a touch of nostalgia to your adventure.
Photographer’s Delight:
The views here are stunning—don’t forget your camera!
3. Lacamas Heritage Trail
Lacamas Lake in Camas is another favorite of mine. The trail here is approximately 7 miles out and back but don’t let that intimidate you—you can walk as much or as little as you like. The path is well-maintained and mostly flat, winding alongside the lake and through vibrant forests.
Why I love it:
In addition to rock formations and waterfalls, there are excellent bird-watching areas scattered around the park to view osprey, bald eagles and many others.
Versatility:
Whether you’re up for a short walk or a longer hike, this trail accommodates both.
Flora and Fauna:
In the spring, the wildflowers are in full bloom, and the lake is home to a variety of wildlife including deer, raccoons, beavers and coyotes.
Accessible Facilities:
There are rest areas and facilities along the way, which is always a plus.
I genuinely believe that these trails offer something special for everyone. They’re not too strenuous, making them ideal for a casual outing, and they’re a wonderful way to connect with nature and each other.
Feel free to reach out to me anytime if you’d like more information or if you’re ready to lace up your hiking boots and embark on an adventure!
Happy hiking, and I hope to see you out there!
(Photos by Dana Jensen)
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