Senior Living News, September 2025
The Goldton at Spring Hill Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - September 2025 - Scotland
Resident Birthdays
Ernestine R – 9/7
Norma W – 9/7
Donna W – 9/21
Thomas C – 9/21
Roy H – 9/25
Diane D – 9/27
Linda B – 9/27
Becky L – 9/28
Staff Birthdays
Abdi A – 9/2
Anna M – 9/4
Jennifer A – 9/8
Brooklyn R – 9/13
Month's Celebrations
Labor Day – First Monday of September (September 1 in 2025) Significance: Honors the contributions of American workers and the labor movement.
Patriot Day – September 11, 2025 Significance: Commemorates the lives lost in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Observed with moments of silence and memorial events.
Fun Holidays
National Cheese Pizza Day – September 5
National Read a Book Day – September 6
National Guacamole Day – September 16
National Coffee Day – September 291
Events Spotlight
National Assisted Living Week, September 7-13
Watch for more info on fun, themed events each day!
Mindful Monday
Team Sports Tuesday
Western Wednesday
Tropical Thursday
Fiesta Friday
Royal Arms of the Kingdom of Scotland
“Or, a lion rampant Gules armed and langued Azure within a double tressure flory counter-flory of the second”, meaning a red lion with blue tongue and claws on a yellow field and surrounded by a red double royal tressure flory counter-flory device.
Scottish Heart
Alexa play "Epistle to Derroll" from "Donovan"
Appearing on Donovan’s 1967 double album A Gift from a Flower to a Garden fused psychedelic folk with childlike wonder, marking him as a true Scottish poet-storyteller.
A heartfelt tribute to his mentor Derroll Adams, it glows with gratitude and the intimacy of folk tradition.
The Magic of Scotland
Scotland’s magic lies in its breathtaking landscapes and deep-rooted history. From the rugged Highlands to the serene lochs and dramatic coastlines, the natural beauty of the country feels almost mythical. It’s a place where ancient castles perch on misty hillsides and centuries-old stone villages nestle into green valleys. The air carries stories—of clans, battles, and legends like the Loch Ness Monster. Whether you’re hiking through Glencoe or standing beneath the towering walls of Edinburgh Castle, Scotland offers a sense of timelessness that few places can match.
But it’s not just the scenery that makes Scotland special—it’s the spirit of its people and culture. Scots are known for their warmth, wit, and fierce pride in their heritage. The country pulses with creativity, from the haunting melodies of bagpipes to the vibrant energy of the Edinburgh Festival. Traditions like ceilidh dancing and Burns Night dinners keep the past alive while embracing the present. And let’s not forget the whisky—crafted with care and savored worldwide. Scotland is a land where folklore meets innovation, and where every corner invites you to discover something extraordinary.
Welcome to Scotland
Around the World with Atlas
Scotland: The Land Beyond the Wall
When the Roman Empire pushed north into Britannia, it met fierce tribes the legions could never conquer. To mark the limit of their reach, the Romans built Hadrian’s Wall, and further north, the Antonine Wall — yet beyond lay the untamed lands we now call Scotland.
By the 8th century, Scotland began to take shape as a kingdom, often in conflict with its southern neighbor, England. Centuries of wars, heroes like William Wallace, and an enduring sense of independence defined its story. In 1707, Scotland formally united with England, creating Great Britain, which later grew into the United Kingdom alongside Ireland.
Still today, Scotland remains proudly distinct — with its Gaelic roots, tartans, castles, and legendary landscapes reminding the world of a culture that was never fully subdued.
Scottish Traditions Reflect Vibrant Culture
Scotland is rich with traditions that reflect its vibrant culture and storied past. One of the most iconic is the Highland Games, held throughout the summer in towns across the country. These events showcase athletic feats like caber tossing and tug-of-war, alongside bagpipe music, dancing, and clan gatherings. Another beloved tradition is Hogmanay, Scotland’s New Year celebration, which often includes torchlight processions, fireworks, and the custom of “first-footing”—where the first person to enter a home after midnight brings gifts and good luck.
Then there’s Burns Night, held every January 25th to honor the poet Robert Burns. Scots gather for a hearty meal featuring haggis, whisky, and recitations of Burns’ poetry—especially the famous “Address to a Haggis.” Ceilidhs are another staple: lively social dances with traditional music that bring communities together. And of course, tartan and kilts are worn with pride, especially during formal occasions and weddings. These traditions aren’t just preserved—they’re lived, celebrated, and passed down with joy.
What Makes September Special?
September carries a quiet magic—it’s the month where summer’s golden haze begins to fade into the crisp promise of autumn. The air shifts, cooler mornings hint at change, and leaves begin their slow transformation into fiery reds and golds. It’s a time of transition, not just in nature but in rhythm: schools reopen, routines reset, and the world seems to take a collective breath after the carefree chaos of summer. In many cultures, September marks harvest time, a season of gathering and gratitude, where the fruits of labor are finally enjoyed.
Beyond the seasonal shift, September is rich with symbolism and celebration. In the United States, Labor Day honors the contributions of workers, while Patriot Day on September 11th invites reflection and remembrance. Globally, it’s a month of renewal—Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, often falls in September, bringing themes of introspection and fresh beginnings. Even in fashion and entertainment, September is a powerhouse: it kicks off Fashion Week in major cities and signals the start of award season buzz. It’s a month that quietly reshapes the mood of the year, inviting us to slow down, reflect, and prepare for what’s next.
Resident of the Month
Betty Hinkle
Q: What’s your full name?
A: Betty was named Elizabeth after her mother, but she has gone by Betty all her life.
Q: Where were you born?
A: A little town called Los Molinos, CA.
Q. Tell us a little about your life story.
A. Betty was married at 18, and she and her husband were married 68 years. They welcomed their first child when Betty was 19 and they had a total of 3 children. They bought a lock shop in Rosefield, CA, and Betty did the books for the business. She also worked in a hospital. She loved taking care of her children and grandchildren.
Q: What’s your favorite food or treat?
A: Chocolate
Q: What’s your favorite color?
A: Pastels
Q: What’s your favorite style of music?
A: Christian worship songs
Q: Do you have any favorite hobbies?
A: Puzzles and crosswords
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Beloved Scottish Dishes
Scotland’s culinary heritage is hearty, comforting, and full of character. These dishes reflect Scotland’s love of local ingredients and bold flavors. If you’re ever there, sampling them is practically a rite of passage. Here’s a flavorful lineup of traditional Scottish dishes.
Cullen Skink – A rich, creamy soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. It hails from the town of Cullen and is often compared to chowder, but with a smokier depth.
Rumbledethumps – A baked dish of mashed potatoes, cabbage, and onions, often topped with melted cheese. It’s similar to bubble and squeak and makes a cozy side or vegetarian main.
Scottish Porridge – Made with oats, water (or milk), and a pinch of salt, traditionally stirred with a wooden spurtle. It’s a breakfast staple dating back centuries.
Full Scottish Breakfast – A robust plate featuring eggs, bacon, sausage, black pudding, tattie scones, mushrooms, tomatoes, and sometimes haggis. It’s a feast that fuels a full day of adventure.
Scottish Tablet – A sweet treat made from sugar, condensed milk, and butter, cooked to a crumbly, fudge-like texture. It’s intensely sugary and beloved across the country.
Cranachan – A dessert of whipped cream, toasted oats, raspberries, and a splash of whisky or honey. It’s often served at celebrations and showcases Scotland’s natural produce beautifully.
Associate of the Month
Brandon Houchen
Let’s get to know our associate of the month, Brandon Houchen! Brandon has been part of the Goldton family as a Certified Nursing Assistant for approximately 15 months. Brandon’s nickname is “Calvin” because he loves the cartoon, Calvin and Hobbes.
Q: Why did you choose to work in senior care?
A: I’m a Christian and God tells me to respect and care for the elderly. Seniors have so much wisdom to share with all of us.
Q: Tell us a little about your life outside of work.
A: I love hiking. I try to hike a few miles every day. I am also very involved with my church family. I am in charge of leading songs at church.
Brandon’s Favorite Things:
Favorite Food or Go-to Snack: Steak
Favorite Book: Bible
Favorite Music or Song: Mumford & Sons
Favorite Quote or Life Motto: “I can, I must, I will.” My college professor would write that on the board.
Collaborators
