Feb 2024 | Page 6

6 February 2024 Pamplin Media Group

By KERRY PHILLIPS

� From Page 5

While February traditionally ushers in thoughts of romantic love , there ’ s a growing movement to celebrate love in its myriad forms , paying homage to the bonds that extend beyond romance . Galantine ’ s Day , for example , is observed on Feb . 13 and declares love and affection to the “ gals ” who make up a female support system . To mark the occasion , Marilyn Owens and Shirley Treadwell , both residents at SpringRidge at Charbonneau , are raising a glass to celebrate their 25 years of friendship !

The pair met through PEO International , a global charity focused on empowering women through higher education , and their bond quickly developed over shared interests in book clubs and crafting activities .

“ We have so much fun when we get together ,” said Marilyn . “ Now that we ’ re living at SpringRidge , our friendship has grown even stronger .”

Marilyn was the first to move to the active retirement community in March 2019 . She toured several communities but said she was “ sold ” on SpringRidge ’ s flexible 12-hour dining and well-stocked library . She was so happy with her decision that she suggested Shirley consider moving to SpringRidge , too .

“ I was alone in a big house eating dinner , and there was a repairman fixing something ,” recalled Shirley . “ He was there all day , and I thought , ‘ Why am I doing this to myself ?’ I decided to take Marilyn ’ s advice and moved in soon after .”

She said she saw firsthand the advantages of being at a community such as SpringRidge , especially during the COVID pandemic .

“ Not long after I moved in , the lockdowns began . It was so nice being in a community setting because I could still see others ,” she said . “ I knew people who lived alone , and the impact of not having any socialization was very evident . Being in a senior community with friends of varying degrees is a huge plus .”

The friends said it ’ s been great to

COURTESY PHOTO : KERRY PHILLIPS

Shirley Treadwell ( left ) and Marilyn Owens ( right ) have been friends for 25 years and find they now have more time for their friendship to flourish since moving to SpringRidge at Charbonneau .

reconnect their relationship , built on trust and understanding .

“ When we get together , I know I can say anything I want , and it will be between us ,” shared Shirley . “ It ’ s rewarding to find that in a person .”

Marilyn said one of the greatest strengths of their relationship is being able to pick up right where they left off without missing a beat .

“ We ’ re close , but we don ’ t make demands on each other ,” she said . “ Friendships that aren ’ t clingy and can continue even after weeks and months of separation are to be cherished .”

In addition to each other ’ s company , the ladies enjoy trivia events where residents compete against staff for bragging rights . Marilyn also serves on the SpringRidge Hospitality Committee , welcoming her newest neighbors to the community .

“ It was great that I could be here for Shirley when she moved in , but I understand not everyone has a friend they ’ ve known for over two decades already living at SpringRidge ,” explained Marilyn . “ I was brand new , so I know it ’ s important to help welcome others and get them acclimated to our community .”

Committee members roll out the red carpet for newcomers , visiting with them in their residences to answer their questions and extending an invitation for dinner in the onsite restaurant , which offers daily fresh specials and chef-prepared menu options .

Shirley offered valuable advice for those hesitant to embrace senior community living : “ There is a disadvantage with waiting too long . If you ’ re too sick or frail , you don ’ t get a chance to enjoy the many activities and outings . It ’ s important to come to a community like this when you can appreciate it and expand your social circle !”

Marilyn and Shirley are proof that love and camaraderie know no age , and celebrating girlfriends is an everlasting source of joy — a timeless reminder that true connections only grow richer with time .

The SpringRidge at Charbonneau campus offers a comprehensive menu of lifestyle options , including CARF-accredited assisted living and memory care services at SpringRidge Court . For more information or to schedule a personal tour , please call 503-694-2700 or visit SpringRidgeatCharbonneau . com . participants with expertise and infectious enthusiasm .

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Regular attendance is encouraged to maximize the comprehensive benefits of this engaging workout , while also enabling participants to steadily progress towards their fitness goals . The choreographed routines are rotated every two months , ensuring variety while preventing monotony in fully attaining the benefits of each workout .

Classes are conveniently scheduled on Monday , Wednesday , and Friday from 8-9 a . m . The cost is a reasonable $ 35 per month , or $ 5 per session , making it an accessible and affordable fitness option . Those interested in joining are encouraged to contact Jill at 503-981-1211 or getfitwjwalker @ gmail . com to discuss equipment availability , as bands and weights are utilized based on specific routines . Don ’ t miss out on this invigorating hour of fitness – Get Fit Aerobics is not just a class ; it ’ s an experience that will leave you energized and eager for more .