Senior Living News, December 2025

Madison at Oviedo Newsletter

December 1st, 2025

Around the world with Atlas - December 2025 - France

Resident´s Birthdays

Jeanette M. 12/8
Madeline W. 12/11
Gerry P. 12/12
Anita G. 12/13
Carol L. 12/28

Celebrating December

National Cookie Day 12/4
National Violin Day 12/13
Ugly Sweater Day 12/19
Winter Solstice 12/21
Christmas Eve 12/24
Christmas Day 12/25
New Years Eve 12/31

Events Spotlight

Anita Grubman’s 104th Birthday Celebration 12/13
A Night in Paris 12/16
A Very Merry Christmas Dinner (Family Event) 12/17
Christmas Lights Scenic Tour 12/18

Associate of the Month

Kathleen Riley

Congratulations to Kathleen for being selected as Madison at Oviedo’s Employee of the month for December. Kathleen started in our community in 2008 and has over 20 years’ experience in healthcare.
She lives by “Teamwork makes the dream work” and a firm believer that our residents make the job easy. When she’s not working you can find her sitting by her pool drinking wine, cooking or just simply spending time with her family. Congratulations Kathleen and thank you for being a friend!

2026 Preview

As we turn the final page of 2025, it’s a lovely time to pause and smile at all the small but meaningful moments that filled our year. There were shared stories over morning coffee, laughter echoing down the halls, and friendships that grew a little deeper with each passing season. We watched flowers bloom in the spring, felt the warmth of summer sunshine, admired autumn’s golden colors, and found comfort in winter’s cozy quiet. Each day, in its own way, reminded us of the beauty of simply being together — of the kindness, patience, and joy that come from a caring community. In 2026 there’s plenty more to look for such as the United States 250th Anniversary, the world cup & the Winter Olympics. Through every conversation, every shared meal, and every gentle act of thoughtfulness, 2025 became a tapestry of moments worth cherishing. Here’s to 2026 — may it bring more smiles, more peace, and more reasons to be thankful for each other.

From France with Love

Alexa, play Vanille Fraise, by L'Impératrice.

“Vanille Fraise” by L’Impératrice(2015) is a dreamy, stylish blend of soft synths, smooth vocals, and modern French disco flair. Sweet, nostalgic, and effortlessly cool, it captures the band’s signature mix of elegance and groove in one irresistible track. It shows why L’Impératrice is one of France’s most exciting contemporary bands.

Welcome to France

France’s history stretches back thousands of years, shaped by monarchs, revolutions, and cultural achievements. In the early Middle Ages, the Franks gave the country its name and laid the foundations for a powerful European kingdom. The reign of Louis XIV, the “Sun King,” in the 17th century turned France into a symbol of absolute monarchy and grandeur, with the magnificent Palace of Versailles reflecting its power and elegance.
French culture is known for its appreciation of beauty, intellect, and pleasure in everyday life—a philosophy often called “joie de vivre” (the joy of living). Art and literature have long been cornerstones of French identity, with figures like Claude Monet, Victor Hugo, and Coco Chanel leaving lasting legacies. France is also a leader in fashion, hosting the world-famous Paris Fashion Week and home to luxury brands like Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel.
French cuisine is a central part of its culture and is often regarded as one of the finest in the world. In 2010, UNESCO even recognized French gastronomy as an “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.” Meals are more than just food—they’re experiences meant to be savored slowly and shared. Each region of France offers its own specialties: Paris is known for its delicate pastries like croissants and éclairs, Burgundy is famous for its red wine and dishes like boeuf bourguignon (beef stewed in wine). Provence brings Mediterranean flavors with herbs, olive oil, and dishes like ratatouille. Brittany offers crepes and fresh seafood, while Alsace blends French and German influences with dishes like choucroute. Cheese and wine are also integral to French dining. With over 400 types of cheese—from creamy brie to sharp roquefort—and world-renowned wines from Bordeaux, Champagne, and Burgundy, France has truly perfected the art of indulgence.
Today, France continues to inspire and influence. It balances innovation and tradition, cherishing its artistic heritage while embracing new ideas. Whether you stroll through the Louvre, sip coffee at a Parisian café, or enjoy a simple baguette with cheese, you’re experiencing the essence of French culture—a celebration of life’s finer moments.

Welcome to France
Around the World with Atlas

France is a country built on centuries of history, artistry, and revolutionary ideas. From ancient Gaul and the rise of the Frankish kingdoms to the birth of the modern French state, its story is one of transformation. The foundations of France took shape through the coronation of Clovis in the 5th century, the brilliance of Charlemagne’s empire, and the evolution of a nation that would eventually stand at the center of European culture and politics. Over time, France became known not only for its kings and cathedrals but for a spirit of curiosity and change that shaped the world.
French culture has left an indelible mark across the arts, philosophy, cuisine, literature, and fashion. From the Enlightenment thinkers who reimagined human rights to the painters who transformed visual expression — Monet, Renoir, Cézanne, Degas — France has long been a beacon for creativity. Its influence extends into cinema, music, architecture, and the culinary traditions cherished worldwide, from buttery croissants to slow-cooked Coq au Vin. Every corner of French life carries a sense of refinement balanced with a deep appreciation for pleasure, beauty, and daily rituals.

To explore France is to step into a living tapestry of medieval villages, grand boulevards, vineyards, seaside cliffs, and cafés where time seems to slow down. It is a country that invites discovery — whether through the echo of cathedral bells, the quiet glow of a museum hall, or the simple joy of strolling along the Seine. France welcomes visitors not just to see its landmarks but to feel its spirit: a blend of elegance, history, and poetic charm that has captivated the world for centuries.

Merry Christmas

Every year, on the fourth Thursday of November, families across the United States gather to share a meal, express gratitude, and celebrate togetherness. But where did this beloved holiday come from? The history of Thanksgiving is a story that blends early American history, cultural exchange, and the enduring spirit of thankfulness.
The origins of Thanksgiving trace back to 1621, when English settlers known as the Pilgrims held a feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts to celebrate their first successful harvest in the New World. After a harsh winter that claimed many lives, the Pilgrims were grateful for the help of the Wampanoag people, who taught them how to grow corn, fish, and live off the land. For many years, Thanksgiving was celebrated only in certain regions of the country and on different dates. It wasn’t until 1863, during the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday, calling for a day of “thanksgiving and praise” to bring the nation together during difficult times.
Lincoln chose the last Thursday in November as the official date, inspired by the efforts of Sarah Josepha Hale, a writer and editor who had campaigned for years to make Thanksgiving a national holiday.
Over the centuries, Thanksgiving has evolved from a harvest celebration into a day centered around family, food, and gratitude. Traditional meals often include roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. From its humble beginnings as a harvest feast to a nationwide day of reflection, Thanksgiving continues to remind Americans of the power of community.

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Recipe of the Month:

Quick Ratatouille

Key Ingredients:
-Zucchini.
-Yellow summer squash.
-Chinese or Japanese eggplant.
-Tomato purée.
Directions:
1. Prep the vegetables.
2. Once trimmed, the zucchini, summer squash, eggplant, and Roma tomatoes should all be cut into 1/16-inch-thick rounds. If you have a mandoline, this is a great time to get it out — it’s perfect for getting thin, even slices of zucchini and summer squash. You will need to use a knife for the eggplant and tomatoes, as their flesh is too soft for the mandoline.
3. Make the sauce. Sauté the onion and bell pepper until soft, stir in the garlic and herbs, then add the tomato purée and simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in red wine vinegar and spread the sauce into an even layer.
4. Arrange the vegetables. Starting at the outer edge of the skillet and working inward, arrange the vegetable rounds in concentric circles, alternating the vegetables and overlapping the slices so that just a little bit of each slice is visible.
5. Cover and bake. Drizzle with olive oil and season. Cover the skillet and bake until the vegetables are softened and have released their liquid but are not browned around the edges.
Rest the ratatouille. Uncover and let the ratatouille rest for five minutes before serving.

Resident of the Month

Sandra “Sandy” Ribakoff

This December, we are delighted to shine the spotlight on Sandra “Sandy” Ribakoff, a remarkable woman with a life full of care, adventure, and joy. Sandra is a retired nurse who spent many years working as a dedicated school nurse, caring for children and supporting their health and well-being. Originally from England, Sandra made a bold move to Israel at just 19 years old, where she built a beautiful life and embraced new experiences. She has always had a love for animals and enjoys spending time reading and taking peaceful walks. Today, Sandra continues to live life to the fullest—singing and dancing bring her endless happiness and keep her spirit vibrant.
We are so lucky to have Sandra as part of our community. Her warmth, energy, and zest for life inspire us all!

Happy Holidays! May this season bring you peace, happiness, and a little extra sparkle.

Collaborators

Aaliyah Brett

Conswhala Hamilton