The response to the Senior University Computer 101 course was overwhelming! A dozen of our residents began classes this week at the University of West Georgia-Newnan Campus. They were all very excited to have an opportunity to enhance their computer skills or, in some cases, begin to use their computers. We hope that UWG-Newnan will host this class again soon. Some of our residents were disappointed that they were unable to take part due to the limited class size.

Doyle Smith and Chet Long

“Chief TenBeers” came to Wesley Woods for a visit and to spread Mardi Gras cheer to our residents before heading to New Orleans for the parade.

While we always hope that the people we meet who are seeking a retirement community will choose Wesley Woods, we also understand that there many factors to consider. Our philosophy is that the fit needs to be right, and if we are not the right fit, we want to be a resource for our community in finding solutions for the people we serve.

A well-designed setting won’t feel like “home” unless it has the right atmosphere. Spend time with the staff and, if possible, other residents to get a “feel” for a place. Some communities foster a casual, friendly environment while others encourage a more elegant and formal tone. Finally, you can get a strong sense of a community’s philosophy by reviewing its programs and service offerings. The key: Make sure a community offers a set of services that supports the lifestyle you envision.

While financial considerations are important in choosing a retirement community, other factors are just as important. Whether you plan on making a move now or within a few years, it pays to weigh the factors described above. After all, where you choose to live can play a pivotal role in helping you lead the life you want to live.

Envision the life you want to lead

Many older adults recognize that moving to a retirement community can significantly improve their quality of life. Still, selecting just the right community can be a struggle. Cost is a critical factor, of course, but there’s much more to consider before you can make a sound choice.

Experience the setting

While it may not be an easy decision, taking time to weigh a few key factors can help you find a retirement community that works best for you.

Go beyond bricks and mortar

What will the next decade bring in your life? Take time to create a vision for your future. More than ever before, retirees are determined to take on new pursuits, expand their social network and broaden their range of interests. Think about how you’d like to spend a typical day or a typical week. How will a particular community support you with clearly defined programs, resources and social opportunities?

Thinking ahead, making a choice

Communities vary greatly in their physical qualities: accessible outdoor space, common areas, dining rooms and amenities. Think about what surroundings make you happy and will support your chosen lifestyle. Do you enjoy the hustle and bustle of an urban setting, or a more tranquil setting with views and vistas?

This week the Wesley Woods campus was filled with models, cameras and lighting as we completed two days of photoshoots for new lifestyle photos to use in our advertisements. The models were our very own residents, and they did a fantastic job of just being themselves for the camera. Thanks to all of our great participants, and for anyone that would like to be in future photoshoots, please let us know! Are you ready for your close-up?

In addition to our regularly scheduled activities, our Activities Team plans the occasional “Theme Night” in Woody’s Bistro. These nights are centered around a special cuisine, and are just another reason to get together and have a good time! Some of these theme nights so far have included: Italian Night, The Chili Cook-Off, Wesley Woods Souptacular, “This Spuds For You” Potato Bar, and “Make a Run for the Border” Southwest Night.

We have also recently had two “Chef’s Choice” nights in which cooks from the Wesley Woods Dining Room host their own specialty dinner in Woody’s where they can exercise their culinary creativity. Beth Knight and Rob Goss have both participated, and our residents have thoroughly enjoyed their creations.

The first series of our new Senior University will begin next month.  On November 11th and 12th we will host a two part photography workshop from 10AM until 12:00 Noon.  The first session will review the basic techniques of photography.  The next session will focus on advanced techniques.  This is open to residents of Wesley Woods and friends from outside our community so please tell all your friends.  After this class, you will be able to take great pictures, download onto a computer and email them to family and friends.

For the past few months residents of Wesley Woods Newnan have been honing their bowling skills with the help of Susan Walraven, daughter of Anne and Bill Walraven.  In July we hosted the first Wesley Woods Newnan Wii Bowling Tournament.  There were 12 participants and a huge crowd to cheer them on.  Tom Wear and Hump Humphries were the top scorers in the first round.  Hump Humphries and Betty Head were top scorers in the second round.  The scores for the third round are unavailable at this time but I understand Anne Walraven was the top scorer for the entire tournament.  Did I mention that her daughter is the bowling coach????   Details for next tournament will be announced as soon as they are finalized.

The Wedgewood Boutique at Wesley Woods will be hosting their Fashion Show and Tea at 2:00 PM this Saturday, September 26th,  in the Thompkins Auditorium.   There is no charge for admission and complimentary refreshments will be served.  We hope you’ll come by to see some of the lovely items the models will be wearing.

We are so excited to introduce our newest web site feature, the Wesley Woods blog! This is where we will post information, news and happenings at our community. Bookmark this page to stay updated on what’s happening at Wesley Woods in Newnan! Thanks for checking in…