Family is my life. From the moment I was born, until today, the meaning of my life is encompassed in that one word. Family. By trade, I am a Home Economist, so even my professional life revolved around family. Nurtured by loving parents and siblings, I grew up knowing that family is the glue that holds the world together.

My Lifetime Family awakens each day to the morning of their lives – the time when the future is before them. They are exploring new opportunities and expanding horizons. Their lives are filled with wonderful and exciting possibilities. I love watching each one of them grow into their dreams. I remember that kind of joy, when life is overflowing with new adventures.

My Lifetime Family lives from coast to coast. Jake in New York City, Kelsey in Los Angeles, Molly in Kansas City, Andy, Zach, Lacee, Nick & CJ in Phoenix. None live in Manhattan. So, am I lonely? Oh no. This is the afternoon of my life and doors have opened to welcome me into another family.

This new family is unique. Each person comes from a different Lifetime Family and yet together we create another relationship – The Meadowlark Hills Family. Our Lifetime Families, always at the heart of our lives, are shared and cherished by this new Meadowlark Hills Family.

As a MLH Family we have opportunities that enhance the afternoon of life. The pace is a little slower, but the choices are endless. We are invited to participate in a variety of exercise classes and health support groups. Faith related worship, Bible studies and book discussions keep us seeking. Interest groups – Meadowlark Hills Singers, writing group, craft classes, pool and bingo keep our energy high. Neighborhood and small group meals feed our bodies and enrich friendships. Lifelong learning comes through Osher classes and special interest lectures. Interactions with KSU faculty and students are abundant.

We learn about our neighbors past careers and challenges. We laugh and cry and enjoy life together. We stay within the physical boundaries of our community or we simply close the front door and venture out to other places of our choosing. Someone is always home – other residents and staff members – and we are welcomed back after each adventure.

The whole of life is to be treasured. “Grow old along with me!” said Robert Browning. “The best is yet to be – the last of life, for which the first was made.”

I have the best of life – the morning and the afternoon. My Lifetime Family is part of every day of my life. Children and grandchildren that make me proud to be their Grandma Polly. We gather when we can and we support each other by phone, e-mail, text, and even real letters. Miles may separate us for a time, but love connects us for always. And here, to support me where I live, is My Meadowlark Hills Family. Family is my life!