Like all of you, our residents and staff have grown weary of masks, distancing and proof of vaccination cards. We all count ourselves very lucky, however. To date we have not had any COVID-19 cases. Residents, their families and our staff continue to work every day to keep the coronavirus at bay. Everyone must show proof of vaccination to enter our buildings.

Our staff is 100% vaccinated. All of our assisted living residents and 93% of our independent living residents are vaccinated as well. We are accepting new residents again, and they must be fully vaccinated.

We also have begun some exercise classes with small numbers of residents spread safely around the room. We resumed trips to the grocery and other outings, keeping the numbers small for every venture. Our dining room has re-opened with the same masking rules that all of us have become accustomed to when we dare to venture out to a restaurant.

Over the summer, we happily started taking short trips with our bus. We visited outdoor spaces, including Golden Gardens, Seward Park, Woodland Park Rose Garden, Magnolia, the Locks and the neighborhoods of Edmonds, Fremont, Queen Anne and University Village. 

After the last 18 months, we have welcomed the stimulation of being away from home. Opportunities to see life going on in these places, savor nature, and grab coffee or a food treat have been uplifting.