Hammond Glen Retirement Community

12/26/2025

Sunshine Retirement Living's January’s Featured is our very own Sous-Chef Nate!

With a genuine passion for cooking and a deep connection to his Mexican heritage, Chef Nate brings heart, culture, and creativity into the Hammond Glen kitchen every day. This featured Chicken Marsala with a Mexican twist is a reflection of that journey tender chicken layered with poblano peppers, fresh cilantro, and chili oil, finished with bright, thoughtful touches and served over a bed of orzo. After weeks of careful testing, this dish beautifully balances classic technique with bold, cultural flavors, telling Chef Nate’s story one plate at a time.

12/26/2025

DIY Spiced Pumpkin Latte Recipe 🎃 ☕

A cozy homemade latte is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. This simple recipe brings warm spices and creamy comfort together in one soothing sip.

Ingredients
• 1 shot espresso or ½ cup strong brewed coffee
• 1 cup steamed milk
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Sweetener of choice (optional)

Instructions
• Brew your espresso or strong coffee.
• Combine pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg to create your pumpkin spice mix.
• Steam or warm your milk until hot and frothy.
• Stir the pumpkin spice mix into the espresso until well combined.
• Pour in the steamed milk and mix until smooth.
• Enjoy your warm, comforting latte as you take in the beauty of the season.

12/24/2025

Happy Holidays! 🎁✨

Wishing you a season filled with joy, warmth, and meaningful moments. May your days be cozy, your spirits bright, and your heart surrounded by the people and traditions that bring you happiness. Here’s to a peaceful and memorable holiday season.

12/22/2025

✨ Holiday scents set the tone for a warm and joyful season. Independent living communities often embrace sensory experiences that lift the mood, and festive aromas bring an instant touch of comfort. From cozy spice blends to crisp winter notes, the right scent can brighten any gathering and make shared spaces feel even more inviting.

Explore a few delightful combinations that capture the spirit of the holidays and inspire a little extra cheer: https://bit.ly/4aaw5jk

12/19/2025

Staying Safe While Being Active This Holiday Season 🎄

Staying active during the holidays is a great way to support health and independence, but safety should always come first. Pay attention to how your body feels and adjust your activity if you notice any discomfort. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise to prevent dehydration, and wear clothing that allows you to move comfortably.

Choose walking paths or indoor activities that suit your ability level, gradually increasing intensity as you feel ready. With a mindful approach, staying active can keep you energized, connected, and confident throughout the holiday season.

12/19/2025

A festive Christmas lunch to savor 🍣
Oven-baked salmon draped in a bright lemon-dill cream sauce, finished with a sweet-tart cranberry and toasted almond topping. Served alongside tender,
golden-roasted baby baker potatoes and a rich, creamy spinach casserole crowned with crisp fried onions—comforting, elegant, and full of holiday warmth. ✨

12/17/2025

Preparing for Cooler Weather in Independent Living Communities ❄️

As cooler weather arrives, a few simple steps can help residents stay warm, comfortable, and ready for the season.

❄️ Sort Through Seasonal Clothing
Check that sweaters, jackets, and layers are in good condition and fit well. Replace worn items and make a list of anything needed for colder days.

❄️ Add Extra Blankets and Adjust Bedding
Bring out cozy blankets or warmer linens to ensure comfortable sleep, since everyone handles cold differently.

❄️ Gather Indoor Activities
Pull out puzzles, books, board games, and craft supplies for relaxing afternoons inside. Community activity calendars also offer plenty of seasonal options.

❄️ Decorate for Fall
Add warm, seasonal touches like autumn themed pillows, blankets, or simple DIY decorations to make the space feel inviting.

These small adjustments make cooler weather enjoyable and help create a cozy, welcoming environment all season long.

12/15/2025

🎄 Crafting a wreath is one of the most rewarding ways to welcome the holiday season. Independent living communities thrive on activities that spark creativity and connection, and a handmade wreath adds a warm, personal touch to any space. This project turns simple materials into something meaningful while giving you a chance to enjoy time with friends, family, or grandkids.

Explore our guide and create a festive wreath that reflects your own style and holiday spirit: https://bit.ly/3LP9b7c

celebrate the season with wreath-making at Sunshine Retirement Communities—fun, festive, and perfect for sparking joy and connection among residents.

12/12/2025

Recipe Alert: Sautéed Cinnamon Apples Recipe 🍎

Warm, fragrant, and comforting, these cinnamon apples are perfect for staying cozy during the holiday season. Their gentle sweetness and soothing spices make them an ideal treat when the temperature drops.

Ingredients:

🍏 4 cups diced apples (Honeycrisp or Pink Lady recommended; Gala, Jonagold, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, or Jazz also work)
🍏 1–2 tablespoons coconut oil (or butter or ghee)
🍏 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey or sugar)
🍏 ¼ cup water (or apple juice or apple cider for extra flavor)
🍏 1 teaspoon cinnamon
🍏 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
🍏 Pinch of salt

Instructions:

- Place diced apples in a non stick pan, add water, cover, and cook until slightly soft.
- Add maple syrup, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon, then stir to coat evenly. Cover again and cook, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking until the liquid evaporates and the apples caramelize and brown lightly.
- Serve warm for a cozy, comforting holiday treat.

Serving Ideas:

🍽️ Spoon over waffles or French toast
🍽️ Mix into overnight oats
🍽️ Add on top of baked oatmeal
🍽️ Enjoy as a simple warm snack during cool holiday evenings

12/11/2025

Here at Hammond Glen, our taste buds are flying high with a delicious Blue Zone–inspired Vegan Mexican Burrito Bowl! Filled with cilantro-lime brown rice, savory black beans, sautéed onions, bell peppers, creamy sliced avocado, and pickled red onions, it was a fresh and flavorful hit with our residents.
And for a sweet finish, we enjoyed a vegan Mexican chocolate pudding topped with toasted pepitas.
Note: The sour cream shown in the photo is not vegan.
A vibrant, nutritious, and absolutely tasty day at Hammond Glen!

12/10/2025

Fall Friendly Exercise Ideas for Independent Living Seniors 🍂

Independent living communities make it easy to enjoy seasonal activities that support wellness, movement, and connection. Here are simple fall friendly exercises perfect for staying active and embracing the season:

🍁 Hiking
Explore local trails and take in the beautiful fall colors while enjoying fresh air and gentle movement.

🍁 Walking
A brisk walk around the community grounds or nearby parks is a great way to stay active. Harvard Health Publishing recommends 150 minutes per week.

🍁 Cycling
Ride along scenic bike paths and enjoy the cool fall breeze as you stay fit and energized.

🍁 Gardening
Plant fall flowers or tend to raised beds for light exercise and peaceful outdoor time.

🍁 Raking Leaves
Turn seasonal chores into a workout. The rhythmic motion helps build strength and support cardiovascular health.

Independent living communities offer the perfect setting to enjoy these activities safely while connecting with others.

12/08/2025

The holiday season brings the perfect excuse to fill your home with cozy aromas and sweet traditions. A warm mug of cocoa and a freshly baked treat can make any winter evening feel extra special. Everyone has their go-to recipes, yet trying something new adds a little sparkle to the season.

Independent living communities often enjoy both delicious chef-prepared meals and the joy of creating simple treats together. If you’re in the mood for a fun baking project on your own or with friends, our latest article shares a few festive recipes to inspire your holiday kitchen adventures.

Dive in and enjoy: https://bit.ly/4rwW8HU

Savor the season with simple and yummy holiday treats from our retirement living communities at Sunshine Retirement Living, specialized retirement facility group