April
The Goldton at Spring Hill
Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - April 2025 - Greece
Resident Birthdays
Diana J. 4th
Deborah T. 6th
Barbara M. 13th
Don M. 17th
Cheryl C. 18th
Ronnie D. 19th
Dolores V. 22nd
Evelyn C. 23rd
Stephens B. 24th
Staff Birthdays
Lizeth C. 3rd
Harley S. 4th
Phillip R. 10th
Jennifer N. 17th
Kristy C. 26th
Anlly V. 28th
Celebrate April
Outings
Target 2nd
Walmart 9th
Lunch at Aubrey’s 16th
Dollar Tree 23rd
Walmart 30th
Easter in Greece
Easter in Greece is the most important religious celebration, marked by deep-rooted traditions, vibrant festivities, and rich symbolism. The Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday includes daily church services, with Good Friday featuring solemn processions carrying the Epitaphios (a symbolic bier of Christ) through the streets. On Holy Saturday night, people gather in churches for the Resurrection service, where the priest announces “Christos Anesti” (Christ is Risen), and the Holy Light is passed among the congregation with candles, illuminating the night. At midnight, fireworks and bells ring in celebration. Families then break their Lenten fast with magiritsa, a traditional soup, followed by Easter Sunday feasts featuring roasted lamb, red-dyed eggs, and tsoureki (a sweet braided bread). Throughout Greece, each region has its unique customs, making Easter a deeply spiritual and festive occasion.
Greek Heritage
Alexa play "Zorba’s Dance" from "Mikis Theodorakis"
The Song: Zorba’s Dance by Mikis Theodorakis (1964) became an iconic Greek melody, famous worldwide.
The Dance: The sirtaki dance, created for the film, becoming a symbol of Greek culture.
The Movie Zorba the Greek (1964), starring Anthony Quinn, was based on a very famous greek novel and filmed in Crete, won three Oscars and was nominated for seven. The movie expose the amazing greek culture to the world.
Greece
Greece, often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization, has a history that spans thousands of years. Ancient Greece was home to some of the world’s most influential philosophers, mathematicians, and political thinkers, including Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. The region saw the rise of powerful city-states such as Athens and Sparta, which played pivotal roles in shaping democracy, warfare, and culture. The Classical era (5th–4th centuries BC) was marked by remarkable achievements in art, architecture, and literature, leaving a lasting impact on the world. Greece later became part of the Roman Empire, followed by the Byzantine Empire, and eventually, after centuries of Ottoman rule, it gained independence in 1830.
Greece is renowned for its breathtaking landmarks that showcase its rich history. The Acropolis of Athens, crowned by the Parthenon, stands as an enduring symbol of Ancient Greek civilization. Delphi once considered the center of the world in Greek mythology, was home to the famous Oracle of Apollo. The ancient theater of Epidaurus, known for its extraordinary acoustics, continues to host performances today. Other significant sites include the Meteora monasteries, which were built atop towering rock formations, and the ruins of Knossos in Crete, which provide a glimpse into the Minoan civilization. From ancient wonders to picturesque islands, Greece remains a country where history and beauty intertwine.
Easter
In the Story of Easter, according to the Bible, Jesus Christ was arrested, tried, and sentenced to death by crucifixion under Pontius Pilate. He was mocked, beaten, and forced to carry His cross to Golgotha, where He was nailed to it alongside two criminals. After hours of suffering, He cried out, “It is finished,” and took His last breath. His body was placed in a tomb, sealed with a large stone. Three days later, on Sunday morning, women visiting the tomb found it empty—an angel told them that Jesus had risen. He later appeared to His disciples and many others, proving His resurrection before ascending to heaven. His victory over death is the foundation of Christian faith, symbolizing redemption and eternal life for believers.
Bunnies and eggs are common symbols of Easter because they represent new life, fertility, and renewal, themes closely linked to the holiday’s message of resurrection and rebirth. The tradition of the Easter Bunny is believed to have originated from German folklore, where a hare called the “Osterhase” would lay colorful eggs for children who had been good. Eggs, on the other hand, have been associated with springtime festivals for centuries, even before Christianity, symbolizing the cycle of life and the emergence of new beginnings. In Christian tradition, eggs also represent Christ’s resurrection, with the cracking of the shell symbolizing the opening of the tomb. Over time, these customs merged with Christian Easter celebrations, spreading across Europe and beyond, eventually becoming the fun and festive traditions we know today.
Greek Heritage
Around the World with Atlas
Greece, the cradle of Western civilization, is a land where ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture come together. From the awe-inspiring ruins of the Acropolis of Athens, where the Parthenon stands as a symbol of classical Greece, to the mystical sanctuary of Delphi, once considered the center of the world in ancient times, Greece is rich in heritage and mystical past.
The whitewashed cliffs of Santorini showcase Mediterranean charm. Whether exploring ancient ruins, sun-drenched islands, or dramatic landscapes, Greece captivates with its timeless beauty and profound legacy.
Things to try in Spring
Spring cleaning and organizing your small apartment is a great way to refresh your living space and improve your well-being. Clearing out clutter makes your home feel more spacious and reduces stress by creating a tidy, calming environment. Deep cleaning helps eliminate dust, allergens, and bacteria, promoting better air quality and overall health. Organizing your belongings also makes it easier to find things, saving time and reducing daily frustration. Additionally, decluttering can help you reassess what you truly need, making your space more functional and efficient. A clean and organized home can boost productivity, enhance your mood, and create a fresh start for the new season.
Drinking more water and trying new things in your older years can greatly improve both physical health and overall well-being. Staying hydrated helps maintain energy levels, supports digestion, and keeps joints and muscles functioning properly, which is especially important as the body ages. At the same time, embracing new experiences—whether it’s coming to a Goldton Social, taking an exercise class, or simply trying a different type of food—keeps the mind sharp and the spirit engaged. Exploring new activities fosters social connections, boosts confidence, and brings a sense of excitement and purpose to daily life. By staying hydrated and open to new experiences, older adults can enhance their quality of life and continue to grow, no matter what their age.
Resident of the Month
Barbara Murray
Barbara was born in Dearborn, Michigan on April 13th. She was married to Robert Murray for 26 years and has been a widow since 1982. Barbara did not attend college but spent her time as a minister’s wife raising three children, Nancy, Robin, and Bob. Her favorite hobby for many years was sewing, and she loves anything chocolate. She loved sewing for babies and small children, especially dresses for young girls. Barbara has lived in Michigan, Florida, North Carolina, Kentucky and Tennessee. She spent the longest portion of her life in Henderson, TN as a dorm Mom at Freed Hardeman University for 23 years. Upon retiring, she moved to Kentucky to live closer to her oldest daughter, Nancy. In January 2025, her son Bob, moved Barbara to The Goldton at Spring Hill where she is thriving.
More Articles
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Recipe Spotlight:
Classic Greek Salad (Horiatiki)
Ingredients:
4 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
1 cucumber, sliced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
½ cup olives (dark or green)
1 block of feta cheese (about 200g)
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp red wine vinegar (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Crusty bread (for serving)
Directions:
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper.
Add the olives and gently toss everything together. Place the block of feta cheese on top of the salad. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar (if using). Sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Serve immediately with crusty bread on the side.
Associate of the Month
Melissa Davis
Q: What is your job title, and how long have you been part of the Goldton family? Care Associate, and I have only been here one month.
Q: Why did you choose to work in senior care? I love to take care of the older population and listen to their stories.
Q: Tell us a little about your life outside of work. I have 2 daughters, 2 son’s, 4 granddaughters, and one puppy named Nena. I love spending time with all of them.
Q: Favorite food or go-to snack: Pizza, popcorn
Q: Favorite TV Show: Wheel of Fortune and Golden Girls
Q: Favorite music: KLOVE radio station.
Q: Favorite quote or life motto: Love the life you live, Live the life you Love.
Olympic Mascots
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