On September 11, The Outlook at Windhaven hosted a special luncheon to recognize and thank Plano’s first responders. The event took place on Patriot Day, a National Day of Remembrance for those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
Plano firefighters, police officers and other local emergency personnel were invited to join residents and teammates for a meal prepared by OAW’s culinary team as a small gesture of appreciation for the daily work they do. This luncheon is part of OAW’s ongoing quarterly effort to acknowledge the important role first responders play in keeping the community safe.
At The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW), August was packed with fun-filled events and activities for Independent Living (IL) residents. From socials to engaging events and activities right on campus, there was no shortage of opportunities to connect and wind down the summer season. Here’s a look back at some of the memorable moments that made this month extra special.
Plano Fire-Rescue Chief Chris Biggerstaff joined OAW’s Friday Men’s Group for a visit. Residents had the chance to ask questions, learn about new initiatives and strengthen the connection between the OAW community and the Plano Fire Department.
Residents got creative with fresh blooms during a hands-on workshop with Fiore x 7 Flower Bar! Guided by a pro, everyone crafted their own beautiful arrangement to take home.
OAW’s Mahjong Mavericks group meets twice a week and welcomes players who know the basics but are still honing their tile skills. Residents enjoy lively games, friendly competition and lots of fun.
Residents got crafty with fabric wreaths and adorable watermelon button art. It was fun way to spend the afternoon and show off their creative handiwork.
Residents enjoyed raising a glass at the 5th Floor Happy Hour! Weekly happy hours are a wonderful way for residents to unwind and catch up with friends.
August has been a fun and lively month for residents in Assisted Living (AL) and Memory Support (MS) at The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW). From special celebrations to creative activities and time spent together, there’s been no shortage of meaningful moments. Here’s a quick look at some of the highlights.
Love on a Leash® is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing an avenue for volunteer teams to engage in meaningful and productive pet therapy. These pet therapy dogs bring comfort, happiness and healing during their monthly visits to the OAW AL and MS residents.
Eldergrow, a therapeutic horticulture and nature experience designed especially for senior living, is a weekly favorite activity. MS residents dig in to planting flowers, herbs and veggies in our indoor garden and enjoy seeing what pops up each season.
In celebration of National Dog Day on August 26, The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) rolled out the red carpet for its furry, four-legged residents. To mark the occasion, the community collected donations for the City of Plano Animal Shelter, gathering food, pet toys, blankets, towels, cleaning supplies and treats for shelter pets still waiting to find their forever homes.
The tail-wagging festivities kicked off with a morning pet parade and walk around the community that ended in The Courtyard where OAW’s Director of Spiritual Life, Shane Barnes, blessed all the beloved pets. Later in the day, the stage was set for a talent and fashion show and ice cream social. Residents and their pups strutted their stuff or performed tricks to delight the audience.
A panel of judges awarded top honors to: Best Wag: Gus Best Dressed: Cookie Crowd Favorite: Peaches
While residents enjoyed refreshing ice cream, the pups were treated to frozen dog-friendly delights as well as homemade treats prepared with love by OAW residents from Assisted Living and Memory Support.
It was a paws-itive day reminding everyone how much joy furry companions bring to our lives and community!
Residents at The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) gathered for a White Linen Summer Social, a evening filled with great music and food and neighborly company. Stylishly dressed in crisp white attire, OAW residents enjoyed a gourmet dinner buffet and the smooth sounds of a live jazz band. The music had people on their feet and the dance floor stayed busy.
“White Linen Night is a cherished tradition celebrated in several cities, most famously New Orleans and Houston. Think of it as a sophisticated block party with delicious food, refreshing drinks and the best company,” shared Katie Snezhkova, OAW’s Director of Resident Services.
The evening struck just the right note with residents and teammates, reminding everyone just how special community life at OAW can be.
Bea Lorenzen, a beloved resident of The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW), turned 107 years-young on August 22! To celebrate this incredible milestone, Bea enjoyed an early birthday party surrounded by her friends and neighbors from Independent Living and Assisted Living, OAW teammates and a few special family members.
The afternoon was filled with lots of joy as Bea was presented with a festive birthday crown and sash, which she proudly wore. The celebration featured cheerful decorations, a champagne toast, a delicious birthday cake, light snacks and live music including a few of Bea’s favorite songs. To make the occasion even more memorable, she was also surprised with a giant stack of heartfelt birthday cards.
Yashica Washington, OAW’s Director of Assisted Living, shared this about the elegant birthday girl, “Bea is living history, walking wisdom and 107 years strong!”
It was a special honor to celebrate this remarkable woman whose life continues to inspire everyone around her.
To cap off the celebration, Bea received a special birthday shout out on Fox 4 News’ Good Day.
July has been a fun and lively month for residents in Assisted Living (AL) at The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW). From special celebrations to creative activities and time spent together, there’s been no shortage of meaningful moments. Here’s a quick look at some of the highlights.
DrumFit Fridays Each Friday, OAW AL residents are invited to join DrumFit Fridays, an energizing, low-impact workout that combines upbeat music with easy-to-follow drumming routines. Whether seated or standing, participants feel the rhythm as they tap, drum and move in ways that boost coordination, memory and overall well-being. It’s a fun and social way to stay active and start the weekend on a positive note.
Totally 80s Sip and Swirl Celebration To celebrate reaching 80% occupancy, The Outlook at Windhaven hosted a “totally cool” 80s-themed Sip and Swirl Happy Hour! With tasty bites and drinks, it was a “rad” throwback afternoon.
Crockpot Creations Each week, residents explore creative recipes made right in the crockpot! They join in to prepare, mix and taste-test flavorful drinks and dishes while sharing memories and kitchen tips. This activity is a great way to socialize, enjoy comforting aromas and discover new slow-cooker favorites.
Tea Time Each month, the ladies of Assisted Living enjoy a charming afternoon of hot tea and refreshments for the Ladies Tea. It’s an elegant tradition with pretty table settings and a chance to sip and savor with pinkies up.
Creative Expressions Each week, AL residents enjoy a variety of projects in the Creative Expressions craft class. From painting to seasonal crafts, getting creative is always a great way to spend the afternoon.
At The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW), July was packed with fun-filled events and outings for Independent Living (IL) residents. From exciting trips around town to engaging events right on campus, there was no shortage of opportunities to connect and enjoy the summer season. Here’s a look at some of the memorable moments that made this month extra special.
Visit to Envision Dallas OAW residents toured Envision Dallas, a nonprofit serving individuals who are blind or visually impaired. They learned about the organization’s mission to improve quality of life through education, employment, outreach and advocacy.
Totally 80s Sip and Swirl Celebration To celebrate reaching 80% occupancy, The Outlook at Windhaven hosted a totally cool 80s-themed Sip and Swirl Happy Hour! Residents showed up in neon outfits, teased hair and leg warmers for the rad celebration.
Crafting Community From pom-pom fish to oil and Q-tip painting, creativity is always flowing at OAW! Residents enjoy hands-on weekly crafting projects and the opportunity to try something new.
Petal to the Metal OAW residents got creative with beautiful blooms during a hands-on workshop with Fiore X 7 Flower Bar. Guided by a professional floral designer, each participant learned the basics of flower arranging and created a beautiful arrangement to take home.
Stars, Stripes and Smiles The OAW community was bursting with red, white and blue patriotic pride as residents gathered for an afternoon of delicious food, great neighbors and fun at the Independence Day Bash!
Each month, residents at The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW) have an opportunity to participate in an open dialogue with leadership at the Resident Town Hall Meeting. These meetings typically include an update from OAW leadership and provide an opportunity for residents to ask questions and discuss a wide variety of topics in a more formal community-wide setting.
It was a full house for July’s Resident Town Hall where residents gathered in The Hall to hear the latest community updates. OAW Executive Director, Kristen Jordan, kicked things off with a look at what’s happening across the community. From there, teammates shared department updates, including:
Marketing discussed current waitlists and reminded attendees of the resident referral program incentives.
Community life highlighted upcoming events and announced a save the date for White Linen Night on August 21, which will feature a live jazz band.
Spiritual life, culinary and building services were also represented and culinary reminded residents to sign up for behind-the-scenes kitchen tours.
Additionally, two OAW teammates were honored as July’s Moment Maker award (Forefront Living’s official method of teammate recognition for outstanding service) recipients: Courtney Lammons in Community Life and Sylvia McCleary in Wellness.
OAW Resident Council President, Dick Agin, closed the meeting by sharing more information about the Resident Council and introducing members of the various resident committees before turning it back to Kristen who opened the floor for questions.
Kristen shared, “It’s always encouraging to see such impressive turnout at our Town Hall meetings. It reflects just how much our residents value staying informed and being active participants in shaping our community’s future.”
Forefront Living (FL) leadership will present at the next OAW Resident Town Hall on Thursday, August 21, at 1:30 p.m. FL’s quarterly updates offer residents a broader view of the organization and its direction.
At The Outlook at Windhaven (OAW), wellness is an important part of daily community life. From workouts in the state-of-the-art fitness center and group classes in the wellness studio, to swimming in the indoor, heated pool and personalized support in the therapy gym, there’s something for everyone!
