Enjoy this summary of an Art Reflections session, where observing art together celebrates individuality and creates a strong sense of community.
Upon seeing the painting “Kindred Spirits – Little Girl & Horse in Snow” by Jenness Cortez, Don adamantly remarked, “That kid is too small to be leading a big animal around like that.” More discussion and observations followed, but Don brought up again his concern about the horse being too large.
Gloria responded, “Not if he is a nice horse.”
Peggy was able to enlighten the whole group with her experience raising horses. “The horse put his head down. A horse will rarely put its head down. If they like you, they bring their head down to your shoulder so it’s next to your face.”
The sharing of their opinions and knowledge helped lift them and create a stronger sense of community.
Quality of Life in Sonoma
/in News /by tiffanyAnyone who knows Lori has heard her share at least one of her grandmother’s famous “stories.” As the most influential person in her life, Grandma was Lori’s main role model for embracing life with joy, love, and humor. It was through this special relationship that Lori developed a respect for and appreciation of storytelling to connect with and bring joy to others.
Lori Rotola is a registered drama therapist and licensed creative arts therapist. Over the past 20 years, she has worked with a variety of populations with diverse needs and abilities: older adults with multiple cognitive and physical disabilities, children with mental health needs, and adults in treatment for alcohol and substance abuse. Lori’s ability to fully engage in the present moment with spontaneity and humor gives others permission to join in, tapping into their own innate ability to “play.” Her passion is to witness how creative arts, storytelling, drama, movement, and music activities create a bridge for individuals to express themselves and experience joy and connection with others. Lori has joined our team as the Hummingbird Project Manager for Sonoma County and is accepting new clients. Please contact Lrotola@sageeldercare.com
Dogsled Days!
/in News /by tiffanyHere is a fun activity that promotes a sense of creativity and partnership!
By using a collection of small dog figures and a sled, you and your activity partner can create a fun snowy decoration! Start by painting a small box lid for the sled. Then cover the box with fabric to create a cushion-like look. Place the sled at the back of a large piece of heavy white paper or cardboard. Place the dogs in front of the sled and using yarn or twine, connect the dogs to one another. For a sense of humor, leave one dog in the sled as the “musher”. Hot glue is a great way to hold the sled and dogs in place on the paper. For a snowy effect, glue cotton balls around the dog and sled. Find a place to display your fun decoration and continue to enjoy the winter season!
Great Talent in the East Bay!
/in News /by tiffanyKatie Giampa has worked with children and adults with developmental disabilities, older adults, and people who have experienced traumatic brain injuries for over a decade. She has a wide range of experience in outdoor activities, aquatics, community integration, travel, movement, and adaptive exercise. She is passionate about providing individualized person-centered interventions to maintain and enhance the quality of life of those with whom she works. Katie believes strongly in the words of Dr. Patch Adams: “You treat a disease, you win, you lose. You treat a person, I guarantee you, you’ll win, no matter what the outcome.” We are thrilled at have Katie on our East Bay team of Hummingbird Activity Specialists and she is now accepting new clients. Please contact mcreson@sageeldercare.com.
The Hummingbird Project is Flourishing in The East Bay
/in News /by tiffanyThrough caring for her grandmother and mother, both diagnosed with forms of dementia, Mindy Creson has firsthand experience with the need for person-centered care. She is passionate about engaging older adults in creative experiences that provide opportunities for joy, self-expression, and meaningful connections with self and others. Mindy’s expertise as a social worker and experience with a variety of creative arts has shaped her strengths-based approach to engaging older adults. Some of her favorite activities to share with older adults include creative storytelling, collage, nature walks, Laughter Yoga, art appreciation, and exploring a variety of spiritual experiences.
As a Hummingbird Project Manager, Mindy is leading her team in bringing joy and engagement to the East Bay. Mindy is available for consultations and to answer any questions. She can be reached at Mcreson@sageeldercare.com.
Art Observation Ignites Meaningful Memories, Part 2
/in News /by tiffanyArt has a wonderful ability to help bring people out of their quiet shell and free them to communicate thoughts from their personal life experiences.
Inspired by the ice activities portrayed in “The Hunters in the Snow” by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, the Activity Specialist asked the group if any of them had been ice skating.
Jack proudly stood in the back and raised his hand high. “I used to ice skate, but I also used to make ice for skating. I did it for four years, in the wintertime.”
He explained how he used a fire hose with “three men in the back”. They would turn a city block into an ice rink in “St. Jo, Michigan”. Touching this unique memory and connection for Jack literally brought him to his feet, lifting him emotionally and spiritually.
Art Observation Ignites Meaningful Memories, Part 1
/in News /by tiffanyEnjoy this summary of an Art Reflections session, where observing art together celebrates individuality and creates a strong sense of community.
Upon seeing the painting “Kindred Spirits – Little Girl & Horse in Snow” by Jenness Cortez, Don adamantly remarked, “That kid is too small to be leading a big animal around like that.” More discussion and observations followed, but Don brought up again his concern about the horse being too large.
Gloria responded, “Not if he is a nice horse.”
Peggy was able to enlighten the whole group with her experience raising horses. “The horse put his head down. A horse will rarely put its head down. If they like you, they bring their head down to your shoulder so it’s next to your face.”
The sharing of their opinions and knowledge helped lift them and create a stronger sense of community.
Happy New Year!!
/in News /by tiffanySpending time together, counting your blessings, setting achievable goals, and scheduling outings are just a few ways to set yourself up for meaningful, quality of life connections in the New Year!
Wishing you and your families peace. happiness, and many joyful moments in 2020!
Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!
/in News /by tiffanyThe Hummingbird Project is wishing you a wonderful season filled with everything that brings you peace, joy and happiness!
We are so grateful to our featured artist, Alice Marston, for sharing her beautiful painting with us. In her own words, “I’m a dreamer. That’s what makes me paint.”
May you all stay connected to and engaged with your most special dreams. Merry Christmas!
Celebrating Hanukkah!
/in News /by tiffanyEnjoy a Holiday Ballet
/in News /by tiffanyContinuing our love of movement through dance, exploring The Nutcracker is a wonderful way to bring in this holiday season. Being a tradition for so many, the music and costumes offer a variety of visual and sensory delights. Plan an outing to a local production of the ballet. Order a DVD, invite your family and serve festive snacks and appetizers. Use the internet you explore many variations of the famous scenes. The history of the ballet is fascinating and Wikipedia offers interesting intellectual stimulation.
Enjoy the season and celebrate together!
For a beautiful story about a 100 year old ballet dancer, enjoy here:
https://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/story/news/local/2019/03/29/ballet-dancer-henry-danton-still-teaches-100-year-old/3179958002/?fbclid=IwAR0rg-7b536YvvENdxG_htqHf3YZ69ha6LyXQ8DKJsh46FOjgo8u9vQk0Rs