The benefits of connecting with animals are many. Animals provide steadfast and dependable companionship. They provide us with opportunities to stay in the present moment – feeling a dog lick our hand makes it easy to forget our troubles. The fact that they depend on us for their health and happiness helps us feel loved and needed. And the health benefits of animal relationships are many: decreased blood pressure, better resistance to stress, less asthma and allergies, increased exercise and outdoor activities, more opportunities for socialization, and less likelihood of depression and loneliness. But most of all they provide a beautiful example of unconditional love and acceptance.

This symbol indicates programs that are available in-person or by video

All programs can also be done outdoors in nice weather or with overhead cover (except Exotic Animal Education)

• Blanket Making – We’ll start with pre-cut material and work together to make comfy blankets that you can send to a local animal shelter or rescue group, for their animals waiting to be adopted. (1 hour class plus cost of material). We can also schedule a field trip to the shelter so the participants can donate the blankets directly and meet the animals who will be using them.
• Pet Treats – We’ll make yummy dog and/or cat treats, and package them with a personal note to donate to a local animal shelter or rescue group, for their animals waiting to be adopted. (1 hour class for dog or cat treats, 90 minute class for both, plus cost of ingredients and packaging) Please provide an oven and clean-up sink.
  
• All About Therapy Dogs – A certified therapy animal and his/her guardian will visit you for an hour of furry love and education. Learn what is involved in therapy animal training, what kind of dog can be a therapy animal, and what rules the animals need to follow while they are working. Everyone is encouraged to pet the animal, but we also respect the wishes of those who prefer not to. (1 hour class)
• Exotic Animal Education – We partner with local wildlife rehab sanctuaries to bring exotic animals, reptiles, and birds to your community. This can include hedgehogs, rabbits, turtles, frogs, snakes, owls, hawks and vultures. We provide information and education about the animals and their habitats, and the group is able to see interesting and unusual animals up close. Touching is not permitted, and we respect the wishes of those who are afraid to see the animals up close. (1 hour class)
• Pony Visits – We bring a pony or a miniature horse to share some cute fun and education. This activity is always a big hit! Everyone is encouraged to pet the animals, but we respect the wishes of those who prefer not to. The animals hooves are wrapped so they don’t damage the floor, and they are trained not to “go” while inside the building. (1 hour class)
• Holiday Activity
  Visit our Holiday Activities page for fun seasonal programs such as
  • Christmas or Hanukkah Pony

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Click on the categories below for a full program list

Like all forms of art, music moves each of us in distinctly individual ways. Music is an integral accompaniment to all eras of our lives, past and present. Hearing a song from our past carries us back to that place in time, and reminds us of the sentiments and memories that we associate with it. Listening to a new piece of music stimulates our emotions and inspires our opinions in ways that define who we are and what we believe in. Sound and rhythm have been comforting expressions of human beliefs and emotions for thousands of years. Music and sound are therefore not only critical components of our history, but also have the power to positively affect and define our present, no matter what our current living situation might be.

All programs are available in-person or by video

All programs can also be done outdoors in nice weather or with overhead cover

• Music Sing-Alongs – A fun activity for all ages. Our musician plays guitar and sings, while inviting everyone to participate. We also bring small percussion instruments for everyone, to add to the fun! A short discussion of the history behind the songs adds an interesting educational look at songwriting. Create your own theme, choose one of ours, or mix and match! (1 hour program): American Classics, Patriotic, 50s & 60s Rock n Roll, Motown, American Spirituals, Inter-Generational, December Holidays, Valentine’s Day Love Songs
• Music and Movement – Upbeat movement sequences set to fun, catchy music. Using various handheld objects such as shakers, flags, and colorful ribbons we lead the group in dance-type exercises. It’s a great way to increase coordination and range of motion while having fun and elevating mood. It can be done either standing or seated. There is no “right or wrong” with the movements, so everyone can participate! No dance experience is necessary, and the complexity of the movements are geared towards the group’s level of ability. (1 hour class)
• Music Group Discussion – A musician performs songs, accompanied by guitar, that are specifically chosen to evoke memory, opinion, or emotion. Discussions are held after each song for the group to share the life experiences that the songs remind you of, and to talk about each person’s opinion of the piece.  This gives participants an opportunity not only to share important past experiences, but to also express current viewpoints on several relevant subjects.  (1 hour class)
• Good Vibrations – The Science of Sound – How is sound made? How does it travel through the air? What makes some sounds pleasant and other sounds unpleasant? This interactive class teaches the mechanics of sound vibrations through demonstrations of musical instruments, wind chimes, and our own voices. We will combine science with practical examples, and also have fun singing songs together with a guitar. (1 hour class)
• Musical Autobiographies – This activity starts with a wonderful discussion group where people bring lists of the songs that are meaningful to them, and share the stories and memories that make the songs so special to them.  We then compile the songs and stories into a musical chronology of their life experiences on CD.  The stories and memories are printed on the CD insert to explain the significance of each song.  The CDs make wonderful heirloom gifts for family and friends, and are also excellent topics of discussion where participants learn new things about each other.  (Time and cost varies, please contact us for options.
• Holiday Sing-Alongs 
  Visit our Holiday Activities page for fun seasonal programs such as
  • Valentine’s Day Sing-Along
  • Patriotic Sing-Along
  • December Sing-Along

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Click on the categories below for a full program list

We all have stories to tell, just by virtue of just being alive. Every day we have experiences, both large and small, that make us who we are. They test our resolve, they make us see differently, they renew our hope, they make us believe in ourselves and others. These experiences, when accumulated over a lifetime, combine to make each of us into unique individuals with a wealth of valuable lessons and experiences to relay to others. Our professionals can help you record your unique life story, on paper and on video. Computer typing experience is not necessary.

All programs are available in-person or by video (except Photo/Possession Documentation)

All programs can also be done outdoors in nice weather or with overhead cover

DISCUSSION GROUP

• “Pieces of My Life” – Participants bring to the group various personal possessions that are important to them (such as heirlooms, artifacts or anything of importance), and explain the stories and significance of each item to the group. This opens the door to conversation, and offers opportunities for the participants to learn new things from each other and get to know each other better. Participants can bring as many things to the discussion group as they would like. (1 hour class)

WRITTEN LEGACIES

• Getting Started With Legacy Writing – Learn how to get started compiling a memoir, ethical will or family tree. Students will learn how to gather information, conduct research, organize information and get it down on paper. They will also learn various publishing and presentation options. Documenting family photos and possessions will also be discussed.  (1 hour class)

Watch our Video about Legacy Writing

• Researching Your Family Tree – Learn how to research and document the various branches of your family tree. Students will learn about the different agencies and websites available for research, and how to organize the information they uncover. We also discuss how to incorporate stories, photos, and documents to help tell the story. And we teach options for publishing a family trees once the research is finished. (1 hour class) Please provide internet access
• Autobiography/Family History/Memoir Class – Many people think about writing a legacy but need help getting going. This class helps you begin writing about the life experiences that you wish to pass on to future generations. It can take the form of your entire life story (an Autobiography), life stories of your family members (a Family History), or selected important personal events you may wish to write about (a Memoir).  We help you with writing and organizing, and teach you guidelines for editing and publishing.  (4 or 8 week class, 90 minutes per week.  The 4-week class helps you organize your thoughts and start writing.  The 8-week class helps you get about halfway through your writing.)
• Decidedly Me: Why I Am Who I Am – This workshop will help you explore, define and write down the ethics, values and beliefs that have shaped the person you are, and that act as a compass for your daily thoughts and actions. Through analyzing the lessons you have learned, the things you have accomplished, and the plans you have for your future, we will define and record what “makes you tick”. This is an insightful tool for defining and strengthening the things that are important to you. Your Personal Ethics journal can be kept private, or it can be used as a topic of meaningful discussion with the important people in your life. This class will help you define your thoughts, organize your writing, and will provide guidelines for editing and publishing. (Three options (1) One hour class for general overview (2) 4-week class to help you organize your thoughts and start writing (3) 8-week class to help you get about halfway through your writing.)
• Photo/Possession Documentation – We work with people individually to help them organize their photographs into albums and document the names, dates, and places for each one so that families know who everyone is and where the pictures were taken. We can do the same with important personal possessions, documenting the stories about where they came from, and why they are an important. This information is a very valuable gift to hand down to future generations. Time and cost varies, please contact us for options

For more writing classes please click here to go to our Writing page

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Click on the categories below for a full program list

The way we decorate our living spaces expresses who we are and what we like. Our living spaces also act as showcases for the things that are important to us, the people we love, the places we have traveled, and the treasures we have collected. Just as no two people are the same, no two personal spaces are the same. “Personal space” can take on many different forms throughout a lifetime – our childhood bedroom, our first apartment, the house where we raised our children, our retirement home or apartment. Our spaces should continue to be a reflection of who we are, and give us a comfortable place to be ourselves. Any space can feel like home, no matter where that home might be.

This symbol indicates programs that are available in-person or by video

This symbol indicates programs that can also be done outdoors in nice weather or with overhead cover

• Interior Decorating Class – An interactive slideshow. Learn decorator’s “tricks of the trade” that you can apply to your own home, no matter how big or small it may be. We will discuss decorating guidelines and tips, how to use color and pattern, low-cost decorating,  re-arranging what you already have, do-it-yourself projects, organization and clutter management, and decorator’s secrets and discounts.  (2 classes, 90 minutes per class – 3 hours total) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Quick Tips For Interior Decorating – A shorter, condensed version of the above class, without organization and clutter management tips. (1 hour class) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Interior Decorating Collage Project – A 15-minute slideshow about the principles of interior decorating, plus a “Design Your Dream Home” collage project. (1 hour class plus $2 per person for materials) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Balance and Harmony Through Feng Shui – Feng shui is the ancient Chinese art that helps us to live harmoniously with our environment. Proper placement of furniture and accessories enhances the positive energy in a room, making it “feel” better. Learn how to create balance and harmony in your living space, no matter how large or small it may be, using this ancient decorating technique. Learn how color, shape, and material has an effect on positive energy. We will also discuss the difference between “yin” and “yang” features, and how to balance them to create a pleasing harmony.  (2 weeks, 90 minutes per week – 3 hours total. Please contact us for pricing.) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Introduction to Feng Shui Class – A shorter, condensed version of the above class, consisting of an overview of Feng Shui principles. (1 hour class) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Interior Spruce-Up – Whether you just need to rearrange one room, or you need a whole makeover, we work with you to design whatever improvements are needed.  It can be as simple as a new pair of curtains, or it can be as comprehensive as a makeover. We can help with paint colors, draperies, bedspreads, pillows, rugs, furniture, lighting, mirrors, artwork, photos, and accessories. We can also help reorganize the things you already have to create pleasing arrangements. And we can help with de-cluttering and organizing too! Your involvement in the design process is empowering, and for those living in group communities this can help ease the sadness of living away from home. (Time and cost varies, please contact us for options)
• Relocation Help – Whether you are relocating from your home to an apartment or a group community, we work with you to plan the layout of your new space. We draw the blueprints of your new space and help you decide what to take with you and how to arrange it. We can also help you to rearrange and decorate your current house to give it a better chance of selling. And we can meet the truck on moving day to direct the unloading effort and make sure everything goes where it’s supposed to. Once you are moved in, we can help you with all of the things listed above under “Interior Spruce-Up”. (Time and cost varies, please contact us for options)
• Holiday Activity
  Visit our Holiday Activities page for fun seasonal programs such as
  • Holiday Decorating Help

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Click on the categories below for a full program list

There is nothing that takes away worries like burying your nose in a bouquet of flowers. As we breathe in the aroma, it awakens our deep and primal connection with the earth.  It comforts us, and brings us into the present moment. The mere act of digging in the dirt and making a physical connection with the earth also makes gardening one of the most basic and primitive of all activities. Gardens are also living masterpieces, changing over time, and continually engaging our interest. And the fact that gardens depend on our attention and care in order to thrive, gives us a feeling of importance, and gives us wonderful surprises to look forward to.

All programs are available in-person or by video

All programs can also be done outdoors in nice weather or with overhead cover

•  Container Gardening – An interactive slideshow with a hands-on planting activity. Learn how to create beautiful, versatile container gardens either indoors or out. Students will learn about preparation and placement of containers, soil, watering, sunlight, fertilizing, and starting from seed. We will also teach the principles of aesthetically-pleasing container garden design. A planting activity completes the fun! (1 hour class plus materials fee: $3 per person for a 2-3″ pot and seeds, $6 per person for a 3-4″ pot and one plant, $10 per person for an 8″ pot and 3 plants. We can also make larger pots – please contact us to discuss pricing.) Please note: Herbs and vegetables are usually available beginning of May through June. Perennials are usually available mid-May through June. Annuals and seeds are usually available mid-May through July. Houseplants are usually available year-round. Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the health and longevity of plants.
• Garden Structures –  An interactive slideshow with a hands-on building activity. Learn about the design of garden gazebos, pergolas, trellises, arbors, fences, and benches. We will also study how garden pergolas are built, and we’ll build a miniature model of a pergola for you to keep. (1 hour class plus $4 per person for materials) Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow
• Birdhouse Design – An interactive slideshow with a hands-on project. Learn about the different birds in our area, and what they look for when choosing a home to nest. Students will learn how bird houses are designed and built, and we will also see examples of beautiful, creative, and whimsical birdhouse designs. Please provide a computer, tv or projector for the slideshow. We have a choice of two projects for this class:
  • Full-Size Birdhouse – We’ll build a birdhouse for you to place outdoors and enjoy watching the birds nest in it (1 hour class plus $20 for materials)
  • Mini Birdhouses – Each participant will receive a pre-made birdhouse to paint as they desire. (1 hour class plus $4 per person for materials)
• Birdhouse Decorating – We will learn about birdhouse design from a professional birdhouse builder, and see some examples. Then each participant will receive a pre-made birdhouse to paint as they desire. (1 hour class plus $4 per person for materials)
• Wild Flower Planting – Each individual will receive a pot and soil to plant their seeds. First we’ll decorate the pots using paint/paintbrush or markers. (1 hour class plus $3 per person for materials)
• Small Terrariums – With a selection of miniature plants, some moss and colorful stones, you can create a beautiful garden that is easy to care for. (1 hour class plus $7 per person for materials)

 

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Click on the categories below for a full program list