Senior Living News, May 2025
The Goldton at Spring Hill Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - May 2025 - México
Staff Birthdays
Rebecca B. 5/3
Melody B. 5/5
Shatiqua B. 5/5
Breanna H. 5/8
Elizabeth G. 5/18
Faye M. 5/18
Nene H. 5/22
Dolores C. 5/24
Maria U. 5/25
Celebrate May
Outings
5/7 – 2 pm Publix
5/14 – 2 pm Walmart
5/19 – 11 am Lunch at Aubrey’s
5/21 – 2 pm Andy’s
5/28 – 2:30 pm Walmart
Mother's Day
Mother’s Day has its roots in ancient traditions, but the modern holiday began in the United States in the early 20th century. It was largely inspired by the efforts of Anna Jarvis, who wanted to honor her own mother and recognize the sacrifices mothers make for their children. After years of campaigning, Jarvis succeeded in making Mother’s Day a national holiday when President Woodrow Wilson officially proclaimed the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day in 1914. Ironically, Jarvis later criticized the commercialization of the holiday, believing it had strayed from her original intention of heartfelt appreciation. Today, Mother’s Day is celebrated around the world, each country honoring mothers in its own unique way.
Viva México !!
Alexa play "Por un Amor" from "Linda Ronstadt"
Featured on Canciones de Mi Padre released in late 1987, the record beautifully captures the depth and beauty of Mexican folk music. Musical direction was led by renowned Mexican composer Rubén Fuentes, alongside the finest mariachi musicians of the era.
The album became a global sensation and remains the best-selling non-English language album in U.S. history.
The famous Aztec Calendar, shown in its original colors, is also known as the “Stone of the Sun.” It depicts the Sun God Tonatiuh, the fifth sun, at its center.
México
Mexico has a rich and complex history that dates back thousands of years. Before the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, Mexico was home to advanced Mesoamerican civilizations such as the Maya, Aztec, and Olmec. The Aztec Empire, with its grand capital Tenochtitlán (now Mexico City), was at its peak when Hernán Cortés and his conquistadors arrived in 1519. The Spanish conquest led to over 300 years of colonial rule, during which time native cultures were blended with European influences. In 1821, Mexico gained independence from Spain, marking the beginning of its journey as a sovereign nation. The country has since undergone revolutions, reforms, and rapid modernization, all contributing to its vibrant cultural identity today.
In addition to its rich history, Mexico is known for its stunning and diverse landscapes. From the white sand beaches of Cancún and the Riviera Maya to the towering mountains of the Sierra Madre, Mexico’s natural beauty is breathtaking. The Copper Canyon in the state of Chihuahua rivals the Grand Canyon in size and grandeur, while the cenotes of the Yucatán Peninsula offer otherworldly swimming experiences in crystal-clear sinkholes. The Baja California Peninsula is famed for its dramatic coastlines and opportunities for whale watching, while the active Popocatépetl volcano looms over central Mexico. These iconic landscapes not only attract millions of visitors each year but also hold deep cultural and spiritual significance for many Mexicans.
Viva México !!
Around the World with Atlas
A Land of Spirit, Color, and Eternal Stories, Mexico is more than a country—it’s a heartbeat, a song carried by the wind across deserts, jungles, mountains, and beautyful beaches. A place where ancient civilizations whisper through pyramids and murals, and modern life dances to the rhythm of a strong and unique cultural heritage.
The word “México” comes from the Náhuatl words “Metztli” (moon) and “xictli” (navel or belly button), meaning “the belly button of the moon.” The Mexicas pronounced it “Meshico.”
According to legend, the Mexica people were the last of the nomadic tribes to arrive in central Anáhuac (yep, that was the ancient name for the heartland of what’s now Mexico). They came from a mythical island called Aztlán—which is why they’re also called Aztecs. They were searching for a sign sent by their main god, Huitzilopochtli: an eagle perched on a prickly pear cactus, devouring a snake. That was the sacred place where they were to build their city.
And they did find it—right in the middle of a vast lake called Texcoco. Legend says they took refuge on that small patch of land in the lake and founded their settlement, Tenochtitlan, around 1325. By the time the Spanish arrived in 1519, they were stunned by the sight of a majestic, dream-like well-organized metropolis—Tenochtitlan—one of the largest cities in the world at that time.
Let's Get Together and have some FUN!
Socializing is incredibly important for seniors living in senior living communities, as it greatly enhances their quality of life. Regular social interaction helps reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common challenges among older adults. Staying socially active can also support mental health, lowering the risk of depression and cognitive decline. Engaging in group activities, such as games, classes, or shared meals, fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. Friendships formed in senior living communities provide emotional support and companionship. Socializing also encourages physical activity, as seniors are more likely to participate in events when doing so with others. Additionally, regular interaction can help improve memory and overall brain function. Social connections may even contribute to longer lifespans and better overall health. For many seniors, a strong social network makes their senior living experience more enjoyable, fulfilling, and meaningful.
Cuisine from Mexico
The history of food in Mexico is deeply rooted in its ancient civilizations and rich cultural evolution. Long before Spanish colonization, indigenous peoples such as the Aztecs and Mayans cultivated staple ingredients like corn, beans, squash, chili peppers, and cacao. These ingredients formed the foundation of the traditional Mesoamerican diet and remain central to Mexican cuisine today. With the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, new foods such as rice, wheat, domesticated animals, and dairy products were introduced, blending with native traditions to create a unique culinary fusion. Over time, regional specialties developed based on local climates, resources, and cultural influences, resulting in a diverse and flavorful national cuisine.
Mexican food is known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich cultural heritage. It combines indigenous ingredients like corn, beans, and chili peppers with Spanish influences introduced during colonization. Tacos, tamales, enchiladas, and mole are just a few examples of traditional dishes enjoyed across the country. Each region in Mexico has its own unique specialties, such as cochinita pibil in the Yucatán or birria in Jalisco. Fresh herbs, spices, and salsas play a big role in enhancing the flavor of meals. Street food is also a huge part of Mexican culture, offering delicious and affordable options like elotes, quesadillas, and churros. Mexican cuisine is so beloved worldwide that it was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Resident of the Month
Nancy Ireland
Q. Where were you born? Marshalltown Iowa
Q. Tell us a little about your life story.
I was born and lived in Marshalltown, Iowa, until I got married and had my first son. In high school, I wanted to go into nursing, so I worked as a nursing aid. I then went to cosmetology school. I then got married and after having my first son, we moved to Kansas, where my husband was a Chiropractor. I lived in Kansas for over 30 years. My boys loved Little League, and I ended up working as a Secretary for the Little League Association while all 3 of my boys played for them. After, I worked in Accounting for over 20 years, and I loved doing that work. I then ended up moving in with my son in Thompson Station and stayed there for a little while until I decided to move into Senior Living. I found The Goldton and I am enjoying it here. I have met many great people, I especially love sitting outside on the porch with a great crime novel!
Q. Favorite Food?
A restaurant named Maid-Rite made a sandwich/hamburger that was amazing. This is a dish of ground beef and liver that is steamed and put on a bun.
Q. Favorite Color? Navy Blue
Q. Favorite music genre? 50s and 60s. Tom Jones
Q. Favorite Book? I love books from Sandra Brown, Lisa Jackson, and James Patterson with his “Michael Bennett series”.
Q. Favorite hobby? Crosswords and Reading.
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Recipe Spotlight:
Guacamole
Ingredients:
3 avocados, ripe
½ small yellow onion, finely diced
2 Roma tomatoes, diced
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
1 jalapeno pepper, seeds removed and finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lime, juiced
½ teaspoon sea salt
Directions:
1. Slice the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop into a mixing bowl.
2. Mash the avocado with a fork and make it as chunky or smooth as you’d like.
3. Add the remaining ingredients and stir together. Give it a taste test and add a pinch more salt or lime juice if needed.
4. Serve the guacamole with tortilla chips.
Viva México !!
The Corn Tamers
Corn has been a staple of Mexican culture and cuisine for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations long before the Mexicas and even the Pre-classical Mayans wich are prior to 1000 BC. It’s used in countless traditional dishes such as tortillas, tamales, pozole, tacos, chilaquiles, enchiladas, sopes and so on.
They were masters in combine native ingredients like chile, cacao, and vanilla, Mexican cuisine has shaped global tastes and preserved a deep connection to the country’s agricultural and cultural roots.
Associate of the Month
Mario Valadez
I’ve had the pleasure of working at The Goldton at Spring Hill for well over a year now as the morning cook, proudly preparing both breakfast and lunch for our amazing residents. It’s truly a privilege to serve the generations that paved the way before us – I take pride in bringing comfort and care to every plate. I was born in Franklin, TN, and raised right here in Spring Hill. I’m the oldest of four, and laughter has always been the heartbeat of my life. I’m happily married to my beautiful wife of over two years, and together we’re raising our energetic 5-year-old daughter. As a family, we live for soccer games, carne asadas, movie nights, and keeping up with our two lively French bulldogs. We now call Columbia, TN, home. Life is full, fun, and a constant adventure. As I always like to remind myself: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”
Colors of México
Collaborators
