Tag: 55+ lifestyle

  • Traditions of America: New Communities in Full Swing

    Traditions of America: New Communities in Full Swing

    Although 2019 is starting to wind down, Traditions of America has “geared up” and is wrapping up the year in a big way. We are pleased to announce the grand openings of our three newest active adult communities: Traditions of America at Southpointe, Richland and East Petersburg!

    Traditions of America at Southpointe: The Southpointe active adult community marks our debut in Pittsburgh’s desirable South Hills and is priced from the mid $300s. Only a short drive from the cultural allure of downtown Pittsburgh, residents at Southpointe have the best of both worlds: fabulous shopping, dining, and golf nearby with on-site resort-style amenities right in their backyard. A clubhouse serves as the social hub of the community, with a swimming pool, tennis, walking trails, and so much more. Southpointe has it all!

    TOA Active Lifestyle

    Traditions of America at Richland: Returning to the North Hills of Pittsburgh, and on the heels of our popular Cranberry community, Traditions of America at Richland is priced in the low $300s. This active adult community is perfectly set atop beautiful rolling hills and surrounded by nature, yet minutes from shopping, dining, golf, and supreme healthcare. In standard Traditions of America fashion, the Richland community is loaded with luxurious amenities, such as a clubhouse, outdoor heated pool, fitness center and more. This new, active community is the perfect place to call home!

     

    Traditions of America at East Petersburg: East Petersburg is our newest 55+ community in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, priced from the upper $200s. Like the nearby Lititz community, this active lifestyle community is set amidst the picturesque landscape of Lancaster County, with scenic countryside, roads, and meandering creeks, but only a short drive from shopping, dining, world-class golf, and amazing healthcare. With amenities like a five-star clubhouse, heated swimming pool, pickleball, tennis, and walking trails – your calendar is sure to be full!

    TOA Neighbors

    The three newest locations join our expansive list of Live Better communities across Pennsylvania with more to come! Don’t miss your chance to Live Better in one of our Traditions of America active adult communities. Learn more about a community near you contact us to hear more about Traditions of America.

  • Green Pond: Now Selling

    Green Pond: Now Selling

    Traditions of America at Green Pond, our most prestigious resort-style community ever, officially opened with a VIP Buying Event. With over 36 reservations made, our future homeowners are ready to Live Better in this 55+ active adult community in the Lehigh Valley.

    Our VIP Buyers were treated to a generous spread of food and drink at the Event Center at Blue, in Bethlehem, PA. Similar to the excitement buzzing through the room at West Brandywine, this VIP Sales Event was centered around a lottery-style selection process where prospective home buyers were given the first chance to select their homesite and receive our legendary “Pioneer Discounts”. These discounts are exclusive to the first purchasers in our newest community.

    Green Pond Event

    Located just 7 miles from historic Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, our Green Pond active adult community will combine the excitement of city life with the picturesque beauty of Eastern Pennsylvania. Green Pond will include 229 single-family and garden homes, a 7,860 square foot clubhouse, fitness center, heated pool, tennis, bocce, pickleball, outdoor entertainment area, and much more.

    Traditions of America has been working diligently with wetland experts to enhance the unique environment that exists on the property. There is a plan in place to maintain the wetland and continue to provide the habitat elements needed for the land, including a dedicated conservation area.

    Traditions of America at Green Pond is adjacent to the Green Pond Country Club, and just minutes from a variety of retail, restaurants, health care facilities, and golf courses. Plus, it’s a short drive away from major highways such as Interstate 78, Route 22, and Route 23.

    The combination of 55+ resort-style living with serene natural beauty will place Traditions of America at Green Pond in a class by itself. Not to mention, Bethlehem has been ranked #1 in Money Magazine’s Best Places to Live AND Bethlehem recently earned a spot on Forbes Magazine’s Top 25 Places to Retire!

    Don’t miss your chance to Live Better at our most esteemed active adult community yet. Come visit today to take a site tour, look at the floorplans and envision how you can start LIVING BETTER at Green Pond!

     

  • Meet the Lifestyle Director – Traditions of America at Lititz

    Meet the Lifestyle Director – Traditions of America at Lititz

    We love a good happy hour as much as the next person — but do you ever stop to think about the person who set it up in the first place? We do!

    At Traditions of America, we know you deserve the best in Active Adult living. This is why there are full-time Lifestyle Directors at each one of our communities. He or she is there to assist all of our homeowners in planning the activities that matter most.

    Have an idea for a new club? The Lifestyle Director will transform your ideas into reality. The Lifestyle Director is also your source to the latest and greatest productions in town, and can help you plan your night out! Possibilities are endless.

    Join your friends (and make new ones!) at our seasonal parties, happy hours,  fitness classes, wine tastings, excursions, and so much more!

    For our second edition in the “Meet the Lifestyle Director” series, we would like to introduce Rachel Bechard from Traditions of America at Lititz!

    Rachel BechardWhere are you from?

    Born & raised in Lititz, PA. Currently living in Manheim, PA

    How long have you been working for Traditions of America?

    Two amazing years!

    What got you interested in working as a Lifestyle Director?

    I love working with people and have a background in Customer Service. I love helping people and the idea of serving the same people every day (helping them grow, make friends, and live their best lives) was extremely appealing to me.

    Why do you like working at Traditions of America at Lititz?

    Our team is simply the best. Everyone I work with is dedicated, empathetic, and a team player. We all want to see our community succeed, so we go above and beyond and help one another out every day.

    What’s the most interesting thing you’ve seen/been a part of while on the job?

    We turned the clubhouse into a murder mystery dinner theater for a night and it was spectacular!

    What’s something that has surprised you about your chosen career path?

    I was surprised at how my previous jobs have prepared me for this one. I’ve had to use knowledge and experience going as far back as my High School job in food service! I am a “Jill of all Trades”, and I love that I get to utilize my various levels of knowledge and experience daily.

    If you had one super power to help you with being a Lifestyle Director, what would it be and why?

    I would want to get jobs done like Genie from “I Dream of Genie” or Samantha from “Bewitched”. Just *bobs head* or *twitches nose* and *poof* Things get done!

    What types of things can people look forward to by moving into Traditions of America at Lititz?

    The sky is the limit! We have it all, from games, sports, social activities to volunteer opportunities, and clubs and committees that allow you to make real, deep, lasting friendships. This community is seriously one big family.

    What is your favorite part of the Traditions of America at Lititz community?

    Probably the volunteers. We have so many homeowners who help make our activities and events all the more magical for their help. Because of them, many of our activities are free or have little cost associated with them. We have homeowners who teach Line Dance, Water Aerobics, Bone Builders, and Yoga! We have others who cook and bake for our events. We have even more who teach art, card-making, sewing, knitting, crocheting, and the list goes on! Beyond activities, we have “Helping Hands”, a club who will help neighbors with trips to the airport, cook or grocery shop for them when they’re sick, and do handy-man jobs around the house. We also have “Community Cares Committee”, who works with local charities to give back to the community of Lititz. They run several programs throughout the year, always helping those in need: Veterans, children, homeless. It’s that attitude of giving back to the community and using your talents for the good of all that makes TOA Lititz so special.

    What’s your favorite part of Lititz, PA?

    Lititz Springs Park. It’s built up around a natural spring and it’s covered by hundreds-year-old trees, so between the natural spring and the tree cover, the park is always cool. That’s why Lititz is the “Coolest Small Town in America”

    If there were three words to describe Traditions of America at Lititz, what would they be and why?

    1. Warm: Everyone is always smiling and excited to welcome their new neighbors to the community
    2. Active: There is never a dull moment in our community!
    3. Generous: Our community is always helping others – through donation drives, volunteer services, and kind acts.

    In your opinion, what is the biggest aspect of Traditions of America that sets us apart from other 55+ communities?

    The lifestyle. I don’t think any other community offers a life like this. My homeowners have a community in the literal sense: “a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.”

    Clubhouse and pool Lititz

    This or That: Lititz Edition (choose one) 

    • Indoor Pool or Outdoor Pool? Indoor
    • Pool or Hot Tub? Pool
    • Billiards or Table Tennis? Billiards
    • Bridge or Shuffleboard? Shuffleboard
    • Walking Club or Yoga? Yoga
    • Happy Hour or Brunch? Brunch!
    • Book Club or Bocce Ball League? Book Club
    • Line Dance or Texas Hold ‘em? LINE DANCE!

    We are blessed to have someone as amazing as Rachel working at one of our communities! Getting to know your Lifestyle Director is the easiest way to start living better and enjoying the active adult lifestyle. Make sure to stay tuned for our next feature in the “Meet the Lifestyle Director” series!

  • Traditions of America 3rd Annual Cross Community Golf Classic

    Traditions of America 3rd Annual Cross Community Golf Classic

    The 3rd Annual Traditions of America Cross Community Golf Classic was held June 3rd, 2019. A few years ago, Traditions of America at Liberty Hills kindly extended an invitation to Sewickley Ridge to play in a cross-community golf outing. Both of these Traditions of America communities were fully functioning under their own elected Home Owner Associations, yet wanted the camaraderie to commence – and the Golf Classic was born! Now, there are a total of five local Traditions of America communities that are invited to play: Summer Seat, Pinnacle at Adams, and Cranberry, in addition to Liberty Hills and Sewickley Ridge.

    Golf Classic

    The Classic is categorized as a “scramble”, so skill isn’t necessarily a factor. All are encouraged to attend and participate, with an emphasis on fun rather than pressure. Foursomes that play are usually a mix of people throughout different communities. This way, homeowners are encouraged to get to know one another across different Traditions of America communities. You may think that you don’t know folks from other communities, but in the past, several couples connected with long-lost friends at this event. Homeowners who have participated say that the “cross community” adds to the fun!

    Golf Classic

    This year’s event was our first sell out with 88 players! Players came from Liberty Hills, Sewickley Ridge, Summer Seat and Pinnacle at Adams. Next year, we hope to add additional players from our newest Pittsburgh community – Traditions of America at Cranberry. The winners of this event were 5 under par followed closely by a group at -4.

    Golf Classic

    As Lead Sponsor, the donation from Traditions of America provided a continental breakfast for the players, as well as door prizes. Traditions of America was a big reason for the smiles on those golfers’ faces, and we take pride in helping our homeowners have the fun, active lifestyle that they deserve! This event was a good time for all, and we can’t wait for the next one!

    Golf Classic

    At Traditions of America, we understand that buying a home is not just about the bricks and sticks. It’s about something much larger. When you buy a home at one of our active lifestyle communities, you are not only getting the home you’ve always dreamed of, but you are stepping into a community where you can explore new passions, expand on your interests, and feel like you belong to something much larger. It’s that feeling of community – and belonging – that truly makes a house a home.

    Golf Classic

  • Designer Model Homes at Lititz

    Designer Model Homes at Lititz

    Ahh… there’s nothing better than the feeling of moving into a home that is quite literally the home of your dreams. What could possibly be better than that? Moving into your DreamHome that already has all of the best upgrades available and is completely furnished! Our exclusive Designer Model Homes offer all the bells and whistles for that finished look, right from day one. Say so-long to the stress of moving into a home, and feel a sense of relief when you take a step into your beautiful DreamHome, where even the smallest of design details have been considered.

    All of the Designer Model Homes offered at Traditions of America at Lititz are designed by one of America’s best 55+ architects and are only mere steps from the expansive Clubhouse in this active adult community. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to call one of these fully-furnished, award-winning Designer Model Homes YOURS!

    The Hancock

    This Designer Model Home is located on Homesite #93 and features 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. A dramatic, two-story Foyer enhanced with elegant columns creates a distinctive first impression. The Hancock offers a private first floor Bedroom & Bath tucked away from the main living areas, perfect for hosting out-of-town guests. The generous Owner’s Suite features a 2’ bump out, walk-in His & Hers closets and a luxurious Bath with a 7’ tiled shower. The custom Gourmet Kitchen has a vaulted ceiling, stacked Cherry cabinets and a large, two-tiered island open to the Great Room that’s both grand and comfortable. Plus, a three-sided fireplace can be enjoyed from the Great Room, Kitchen & Breakfast Nook!

    The Hancock Designer Model 55+ Community Home in Lititz, PA

    The Washington

    This Designer Model Home is located on Homesite #91 and features 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. Not only does the Chef Kitchen feature a large island, staggered maple cabinetry, and quartz countertops, this beautiful kitchen boasts a double wall oven. There is a cohesive flow between the Kitchen and formal Living & Dining Rooms which makes entertaining a breeze. The expanded Great Room features a corner fireplace with floor to ceiling stone, which serves as the focal point of this stunning room. The Owner’s Suite features a fully furnished sitting area, tray ceiling with trim detailing and recessed lights, and a luxurious spa Bath. Plus, there’s a private second level which is perfectly suited for a home office or guest retreat!

    The Washington Designer Model 55+ Community Home in Lititz, PA

    The Lincoln

    The Lincoln, located on Homesite #92, features 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. A columned, wrap-around front porch creates a distinct façade. The stunning two-story Great Room showcases a stone fireplace surrounded by beautiful windows. The Gourmet Kitchen boasts crisp white maple cabinetry complemented by Absolute Black granite countertops and chic black appliances. Plus, you’ll always get the chance to relax in the oasis of the Owner’s Suite that features a spa-like Bath with a tiled steam shower. With soaring ceilings that are enhanced by wood beams and stunning trim work throughout, you’re sure to impress with this grand Designer Model Home.

    The Lincoln Designer Model 55+ Community Home in Lititz, PA

    The Franklin

    The Franklin on Homesite #94 features 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. This unique layout blends traditional with open, allowing for both entertaining and quiet space. The Gourmet Kitchen is a Chef’s dream with bountiful cabinet space, a gas cooktop, wall oven, and walk-in pantry. The spacious and comfortable Great Room features a gas fireplace and vaulted ceiling leading to an open Loft above. You will enter the Owner’s Suite through a sliding barn door and relax in the luxurious Bath with a corner jetted tub, tiled shower, and double-bowl vanity. Plus, a Screened Porch and expanded patio create the perfect space for outdoor entertaining.

    The Franklin Designer Model 55+ Community Home in Lititz, PA

    Now that you’ve read about our fully furnished, award-winning Designer Model Homes, what are you waiting for? Any of these stunning homes are great choices and will afford you the lifestyle you deserve at Traditions of America at Lititz!

    But don’t wait too long! The summer season is almost here, and that means the Clubhouse is about to be the hotspot of the community! Bridge, shuffleboard, billiards, ping pong, bingo, walking club, power & stretch, paint & draw, Texas hold’em, yoga, jam band practice – You name it! Lititz has it. Plus, once the Heated resort-style Pool opens for summer, there’s no telling if you are ever going to want to leave.

    Buying a home is not just about the bricks and sticks, it’s about something much larger. It’s about community and feeling a sense of belonging. Lucky for you, no one understands this better than Traditions of America. When you buy a home at one of our active lifestyle communities, you are not only getting the home you’ve always dreamed of, you are stepping into a community where you can explore new passions, expand on your interests, and feel like you belong to something much larger. It’s that feeling of community – and belonging – that makes a house truly a home.

    Contact us to learn more about Living Better at Traditions of America at Lititz!

  • Your 2019 Spring Cleaning Checklist

    Your 2019 Spring Cleaning Checklist

    The season has finally arrived – the season of spring cleaning, that is. The weather is getting warmer, the sun is shining brighter, and we are ready to get our homes clean and organized!

    Traditions of America’s 55+ communities are low-maintenance so you’ll have time to enjoy the best in active adult living. So, to make it easy for our Traditions of America homeowners, we created a Spring Cleaning Checklist for you to follow to leave your home as clean as new.

    Spring Cleaning Checklist

    You can knock it all out at once, tackle each room a different day, or even spread the cleaning out over a couple of weeks. Whatever you decide to do, we are sure your Traditions of America home will be looking better than ever!

    Don’t worry – we realize that this is all maintenance for the inside of your home, and not for the exterior.  But like we’ve always promised, when you live at Traditions of America, your home’s maintenance schedule will no longer fill up your whole schedule. Do you need your leaves picked up? We have you covered. Is your grass looking too long? We’re on it. No matter the season, you can always count on us to get the job done.

    And now that you’ve finally tackled that spring cleaning that you’ve been pushing off for so long, you can start enjoying yourself again! The best place to start living better is the Clubhouse. Not just because of all the 5-star amenities it features, but because it is the natural gathering place for homeowners. So, get out there and enjoy your wonderful community. And hey, maybe even share a spring cleaning tip, or two!

    Like they say, “spring breathes new life into the world.”

    Are you ready to visit a Traditions of America community? Contact us to schedule a tour today!

  • Springtime Activities at Traditions of America

    Springtime Activities at Traditions of America

    It’s official – spring is almost here! Although that doesn’t mean the weather will be warmed up completely just yet, it does mean that there is a lot to look forward to in the next upcoming months! All of our active adult communities are conveniently located with easy access to so many fun happenings around the springtime, plus a multitude of things to do right inside your own community.

    Traditions of America at Silver Spring:

    Every April you can join the town of Mechanicsburg in the Cumberland Valley for their Earth Day Festival, which honors our planet with music, workshops, kid’s activities and more! This will be a great activity for the grandkids, and a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh air of the spring season. Looking for something more your speed? Car show season kicks off with the Spring Carlisle at the end of April! Plus, there will be other spring auto shows at the Carlisle Fairgrounds later in the season!

    Traditions of America at Lititz:

    We are sure by now you know that Lititz was named one of the Coolest Small Towns in America, which is why you definitely need to make your way to one (or many) of the Second Fridays this Spring that will happen each month from 5pm-9pm. Up and down Main Street and Broad Street in Lititz you’ll find artists, entertainers, musicians, and exhibits that create a fun party atmosphere. Plus, there’s a bonus: the downtown shops, galleries, and restaurants are open late to accommodate the many visitors who turn up each month! Also, don’t forget that the Farmer’s Market will be returning back to Lititz starting in May!

    Traditions of America at Summer Seat:

    Celebrate Spring with Summer Seat’s first ever Spring Breakfast! This potluck event will be held at the Clubhouse on Saturday, April 6th! Looking for more to do outside of the community in the upcoming months? During peak flower bloom (early to mid-April), visitors are able to walk the trails of the Wildflower Reserve at Raccoon Creek State Park and see dozens of varieties of wildflowers along the way! Another Spring event you won’t want to miss is Phipps’ new Spring Flower Show that’s bursting with color, The Gardens of Rainbow!

    Traditions of America at Saucon Valley: 

    With the change in weather comes the change in outdoor festivals, so bring on the Spring Festivals! The Bear Creek Spring Wine Festival is coming back on April 6th and 7th to the Lehigh Valley in Macungie! This two-day festival features wine sampling, live music, and artisan craft and food vendors. Not into festivals? Don’t worry – let the fresh air of spring carry you through the Lehigh Valley, stopping at many different farmer’s markets in the region. With locally grown produce to unique drinks and crafts, you will want to shop for hours!

  • Interior Design News: Washington Model at Silver Spring is a four-time WINNER at this year’s annual Parade of Homes Contest!

    Interior Design News: Washington Model at Silver Spring is a four-time WINNER at this year’s annual Parade of Homes Contest!

    We are pleased to announce that our newly re-designed Washington Model at Silver Spring is the proud recipient of FOUR interior design awards at this year’s Parade of Homes. This popular, annual contest sponsored by the Home Builder’s Association of Metropolitan Harrisburg is well-attended by folks from near and far who are interested in getting an “insider’s look” at the best concepts and latest trends in home design. In its interior decorating debut, the sleek Washington took home silver medals for Best Interior, Best Kitchen, Best Master Bath/Suite and Best Decorated.

    Freshly minted gourmet kitchen with the latest appointments
    Freshly minted gourmet kitchen with the latest appointments

    The award-winning Washington Model was recently re-envisioned to give the home a fresh air of casual elegance. The gourmet kitchen boasts a large, angled island creating an immediate statement in the space. A crisp and clean subway tile back splash and creamy white cabinetry accented by antique brass finishes adds to the current, fresh look. These unique touches create a unified look of effortless elegance and speak to the attention to detail present throughout the home. The kitchen opens to the great room, which exudes an eclectic aesthetic that marries old and new to create a stylish space while remaining comfortable and inviting.

    Soothing tones in the Master Bath create an inviting space
    Soothing tones in the Master Bath create an inviting space

    The sumptuous master bedroom suite features an expansive walk-in closet and an exquisite master bath, replete with a white quartz soaking tub, frameless glass shower, double vanity, and elegant chandelier.

    Serene hues of the Washington Model's Master Bedroom
    Serene hues of the Washington Model’s Master Bedroom

    Soothing, neutral paint tones, luxury plank flooring, and natural brass finishes throughout the home add to the Washington’s sophisticated serenity. A picture is worth a thousand words, but getting to see the finishes up close and in-person is a transformative experience for those who love interior design! Come see for yourself and design your DreamHome!

  • Meet the Team Behind the Dream: Lititz Lifestyle Director Rachel Bechard

    Meet the Team Behind the Dream: Lititz Lifestyle Director Rachel Bechard

    The philosophy at Traditions of America is completely customer-centric – we cannot rest until YOU are in your DreamHome. Working tirelessly, often times behind the scenes, our employees are truly the “Team Behind the Dream” and they enable Traditions of America to set the gold standard for 55+ living day-in and day-out. Our new “Meet the Team Behind the Dream” blog series is specifically devoted to highlighting the people who work hard to ensure our homeowners Live Better every single day in their DreamHome.

    Cue Rachel Bechard – Lifestyle Director at Lititz. Read on to learn everything from Rachel’s most memorable career moment as Lifestyle Director to what superhero she would be … and more!

    Q: Describe your typical day at TOA:

    A: Every day is different, but it starts the same: listen to voice mails, check emails, answer questions, review the calendar. From there it can go from attending committee meetings to setting up for events. As Lifestyle Director at Lititz, I plan speakers and events, and I get to know the Lititz homeowners. I spend a lot of time listening to the homeowners – they are genuinely the coolest people. I’ve been in customer service my whole life, and the most important part of customer service is listening: getting to know your customer, their likes, dislikes. Getting to know the homeowners at Lititz has opened up a world of possibility when it comes to planning events, trips, and speakers.

    Q: Favorite part of your job?

    A: Planning and putting on events for homeowners. I love working with our social committee at Lititz to do fun, extravagant things! In February we had a Valentine’s Day Dinner Dance catered by Scarlet Runner (all locally-sourced, made from scratch gourmet catering). For Cinco de Mayo, a DJ came to our party and led group dances. This month we are turning our clubhouse into an Escape Room experience for Lititz!

    Q: Most memorable moment in TOA career?

    A: When one of our actors got sick and had to bow out of playing in our Murder Mystery production and I stepped in as “Simone Carlton” (THE MURDERER!) for our show!

    Murder Mystery Dinner Theater; Rachel is third from right front row
    Murder Mystery Dinner Theater; Rachel is third from right front row

    Q: Career theme song?

    A: “Eye of The Tiger”

    Q: If you were a superhero, who would you be, and why?

    A: Karin Murphy from The Dresden Files. She is tiny, fierce, loyal, and her “superpower” is that she’s just plain human. She’s able to face horrors beyond anyone’s imagination with grit and determination. She fights monsters and protects people. She is strong, noble, and always there for her friends.

    Q: First job ever?

    A: Bussing tables and rolling silverware for Hoss’s Steak & Sea House (the one right down the road from Traditions of America at Lititz!)

    Race Against Racism 5k
    Race Against Racism 5k

    Q: Where would we find you after hours?

    A: At a local craft brewery or outside by the pool!

    Q: Word that best describes you?

    A: Heartfelt

    Q: If your life had a movie title, what would it be?

    A: “Tiny, but FIERCE!”

    Q:  If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring three items, what would they be?

    A: A boat to get back off the island, a pitcher of craft beer, and sunscreen (because your skin is your best friend!)

    Q: If you could meet any historical person, who would it be and why?

    A: Vincent Van Gogh. I’d love to tell him how much his art would shape future artists for generations to come. It seems so unfair that such a creative, talented human being died penniless, thinking he was a horrible artist, consumed by depression and loneliness.

     

  • Traditions of America at Saucon Valley Residents Really Do Live Better!

    Traditions of America at Saucon Valley Residents Really Do Live Better!

    A quick glimpse at the monthly newsletter written by the Saucon Valley residents speaks volumes. In just one short month, their community calendar is chockful of social gatherings, community service endeavors, intellectual pursuits and the formation of new committees and groups.

    Ugly Christmas Sweater The calendars for December and January leave little down time! “First Fridays” feature a once a month “sandwich happy hour” at the Clubhouse. In December, the First Friday will comprise a Clubhouse decorating party to kick off the holiday season. Mid-December features the residents’ annual Holiday party. This year’s theme is the “Ugly Sweater” party where there is sure to be an amusing display of tacky woolen heirlooms to make for some hilarious photo opportunities. For the competitive party-goer, a prize will be awarded for the ugliest sweater. Plus, prior to the party, the residents have planned their second annual cookie exchange!

    Lights in a Bag Also planned for December is the first annual Luminaria Night, an enchanting evening when neighbors will come together to line the streets with luminaria – white bags with votive candles glowing softly inside and sing carols. For the Saucon Valley residents, the lights lining the streets are a symbol of unity and caring for those less fortunate. The proceeds from the sale of the luminaria will be donated to New Bethany Ministries, a local organization that provides shelters and permanent housing for homeless families, along with daily meals.

    Tomato SoupJust in time for the colder weather, January features the second annual Soup Cookoff, followed by the Super Bowl party in early February. And, it seems as though it’s never too early to think about spring! The new “Down to Earth Garden Club” has scheduled its first meeting for early March! The club will maintain a list of garden equipment which residents can borrow from one another, and they are planning field trips and speakers to nurture that green thumb.

    If a monthly book club isn’t enough, the residents have also organized a “Write Your Memoir” writing class with the help of a writing coach and facilitator from Northampton Community College. According to the group’s organizers: “by seeing your life through the lens of story, you can make sense of mysterious parts of yourself, learn how one thing led to another, and exercise your verbal mind with the invigorating practice of story writing.” In addition, story-writing builds community and connects neighbors in new and unique ways. We are proud that Saucon Valley has undertaken such enriching, rewarding and FUN activities!