Senior Living News, November 2025
The Goldton at Spring Hill Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - November 2025 - Australia
Resident Birthdays
Charmaine Browning 1st
John Ward 5th
Margaret Tanksley 7th
Howard Jackson 12th
Edith Long 28th
Elizabeth Hinkle 30th
Celebrating November
Veterans Day – 11th
Thanksgiving Day – 27th
Events Spotlight
Fall Festival – Patio 8th
Veterans Celebration – Dinning Room 11th
Australian Joy
Alexa, play Down Under, by Men at work.
Released in 1981, “Down Under” quickly became a defining song of Australian identity. With its catchy flute riff and witty lyrics, it celebrates the country’s laid-back spirit, humor, and pride. More than a global hit, it remains an unofficial anthem—an upbeat tribute to Australia’s culture, people, and sense of adventure.
Associate of the Month
Meet Melissa!
Born in Pennsylvania and raised in Nashville, Melissa has called Dickson home for many years before moving to Spring Hill this past May. She has been a devoted caregiver since 2004 and joined The Goldton at Spring Hill in July.
In her free time, Melissa loves spending time with her three children and two grandbabies. She also enjoys relaxing with a good book, watching movies, and treating herself to her favorite foods—pasta, pizza, and frozen vanilla coffee.
Her favorite quote is one that inspires her every day:
“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” – Henry Ford
We’re so happy to have Melissa as part of our Goldton family!
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, reflection, and togetherness. Rooted in early harvest feasts shared between settlers and Native Americans, it has grown into a cherished American tradition.
To give thanks for all blessings in life
How Australians Stay Sharp at Every Age
Keeping the mind sharp is just as important as staying physically fit — and Australians are finding creative, social, and practical ways to do just that.
Whether it’s through learning, connecting, or simply enjoying a good puzzle over morning tea, mental fitness is becoming a priority across the country. Here are some of the most popular ways Aussies are keeping their minds active:
1. Lifelong Learning
Thanks to flexible online platforms like TAFE, Open Universities, and community centres, Australians of all ages are engaging in lifelong learning. From short courses to full degrees, learning something new keeps the brain challenged and builds confidence.
2. Puzzles, Games & Brain Teasers
Crosswords, Sudoku, jigsaw puzzles and apps designed to train memory and focus have become daily habits for many. Whether it’s on paper or a smartphone, a few minutes of brain training can make a big difference.
3. Reading & Audiobooks
Australia has a strong reading culture. Libraries, book clubs, and audiobooks make it easy to stay informed and entertained. Even just 15–30 minutes of reading a day helps improve concentration and reduce stress.
4. Staying Socially
Connected Social interaction plays a huge role in mental wellbeing. Whether it’s a chat over coffee, a local trivia night, or connecting online with family and friends, staying social helps keep the brain engaged and emotions balanced.
5. Physical Activity with a Mental
Boost Activities like yoga, tai chi, or walking in nature offer more than physical benefits — they also improve mental clarity and mindfulness. Even team sports or dancing involve coordination and strategy, stimulating both body and mind.
6. Volunteering & Hobbies
Volunteering not only gives back to the community but also provides a sense of purpose and mental stimulation. Many Australians take up hobbies like gardening, painting, knitting, or learning a new language to keep their brains engaged.
A Balanced Mind is a Healthy
Mind Keeping your mind active doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about curiosity, connection, and staying open to new experiences. Whether you’re 25 or 85, there are endless ways to give your brain the workout it deserves.
So the next time you pick up a book, join a quiz night, or try something new — know you’re doing something great for your mind!
Welcome to Australia
Around the World with Atlas
Australia, the world’s largest island and smallest continent, is a land of striking contrasts—from its vast deserts and tropical rainforests to its bustling coastal cities. Indigenous Australians have lived on the continent for over 60,000 years, developing rich spiritual traditions and deep connections to the land. Their art, music, and stories remain an essential part of the nation’s cultural identity today.
European settlement began in 1788 with the arrival of the First Fleet from Britain, marking the start of Australia’s colonial era. British influence shaped the nation’s language, institutions, and political systems, though this period also brought immense hardship to Indigenous communities. Over time, Australia evolved from a collection of colonies into a unified federation in 1901, forging its own democratic and multicultural identity.
Modern Australia is known for its relaxed lifestyle, love of the outdoors, and vibrant cultural mix. From iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Uluru to its world-class art, music, and sport, the country reflects both its ancient heritage and modern dynamism—a place where tradition and innovation coexist under the southern sun.
The Heart of the Goldton: The joy of Volunteering.
At The Goldton at Spring Hill, volunteers are the heartbeat of our community — bringing warmth, energy, and connection to our residents every day. Whether you have a talent to share or simply a kind heart and a little time, your presence makes a real difference. Volunteering isn’t just about giving — it’s about sharing joy. From laughter during bingo to the smile sparked by a favorite song, every moment reminds us what community truly means.
There are many ways to get involved: call out numbers at bingo, read a story, join a cornhole game, help with exercise sessions, or share your music or theater skills. Every activity helps build friendships and lasting memories. Volunteering also honors those who have given so much throughout their lives. Our residents have incredible stories and wisdom to share — all they need is someone to listen and laugh with them.
Whether you’re a student, retiree, or simply love helping others, your time is deeply appreciated. Even an hour can bring comfort and companionship. Join our family and help make every day at The Goldton a little brighter. To get involved, call 931-451-0009 or stop by to learn more!
A Thanksgiving Story: The Gift of Gratitude
Every November, as the air turns crisp and leaves glow in gold and orange, the spirit of Thanksgiving fills our hearts — not just with the scent of pumpkin pie and turkey, but with kindness and gratitude. One Thanksgiving, a group of friends gathered around a long table, sharing laughter, stories, and their favorite dishes. Before the meal, someone suggested they each share one thing they were thankful for. At first, it was simple — family, friends, good health. But soon the gratitude deepened: for caring neighbors, kind nurses, and simply having a place to feel loved. At that moment, they realized Thanksgiving wasn’t just a day — it was a feeling. True gratitude lives in our connections, in shared laughter, warm meals, and the people who make us feel seen and valued. As we celebrate this season, may we carry that same spirit with us — finding joy in simple moments and sharing kindness wherever we go. From our hearts to yours, may your Thanksgiving be filled with love, laughter, and gratitude — today and always.
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Australian Old Art: Stories Etched in Time
Australia’s art is as vast and diverse as its
landscape — from ancient Indigenous rock
paintings to early colonial masterpieces, each
tells part of the nation’s story.
Indigenous Australian Art: The World’s Oldest
Tradition
For over 60,000 years, Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander peoples have used art to record
stories, share knowledge, and connect to
Country. Rock art across Kakadu, Arnhem
Land, and the Kimberley depicts ancestral
spirits, animals, and ceremonies — timeless
symbols of a deep spiritual bond with the land.
Colonial Art: A New Lens on an Ancient Land
European settlers in the 18th century brought
new materials and perspectives. Artists like
John Glover and Eugene von Guérard painted
sweeping landscapes that merged European
ideals with Australia’s rugged beauty — often
overlooking the Indigenous presence that had
shaped it for millennia.
A Shared Legacy
Today, galleries such as the National Gallery of
Australia and the Art Gallery of New South
Wales celebrate both traditions. Together, they
reveal how Australia’s cultural story continues
to evolve — one brushstroke, one story, one connection at a time.
Resident of the Month
James Moore
Born in Castlewood, Virginia in 1935,
James Clarence Moore is the oldest of six
children. At 18, he moved to Detroit,
Michigan, where he began working for
General Motors. His dedication and
leadership led him to become a supervisor
at the Parts Division Plant in Swartz Creek,
Michigan, where he worked faithfully for 37
years.
After retiring, James returned to his
hometown—keeping a promise he made to
his mother to come back home once his
working days were done. While living in
Michigan, he met the love of his life, Betty.
Together, they raised two children, Jim and
Shirley. Sadly, Betty passed away in 1990
in her early fifties, and James never
remarried.
Today, James proudly celebrates a
beautiful family that includes 10
grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and
two great-great-grandchildren. He turned
90 this past January, and his zest for life
continues to shine.
Some of his favorite things include shrimp,
pizza, and any good Southern
home-cooked meal. He’s always had a soft
spot for animals, loves tending to his
flowers and tomato plants, and enjoys
cheering on his favorite sport—baseball.
We are so grateful to have James as part
of The Goldton at Spring Hill family—his
warmth, stories, and smile brighten our
community every day.
Collaborators
