Hiljay Homes Newsletter
July at Hiljay Homes: Hope, Gardens, and the Importance of Speaking Up!
July always feels a little different. Maybe it’s the sunshine that finally settles in after months of gray skies. Maybe it’s the gardens bursting into color. Or maybe it’s because this month reminds us of something bigger than ourselves.
This year, as our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, I’ve found myself thinking about the remarkable experiment called America. For 250 years, people from every background, belief, and walk of life have worked, argued, struggled, sacrificed, and dreamed together. We don’t always agree, and sometimes the divisions seem impossible to overcome. Yet somehow, generation after generation, Americans keep showing up and doing the hard work of moving forward.
That’s what gives me hope.
This summer, we’ve also watched the world come together through the World Cup. No matter where we come from, there is something powerful about seeing people united by a common experience. In a world that often focuses on what separates us, it is refreshing to be reminded of what we share.
Here at Hiljay Homes, life continues to unfold in its own beautiful rhythm. The gardens are thriving. Flowers are blooming. Birds are singing. And if you’ve visited recently, you may have noticed that a few roosters have begun appearing throughout our courtyard and Aina’s Garden. They seem to be quietly nesting among the flowers and greenery, bringing smiles to residents and visitors alike.
We invite you to come spend a few moments with us. Find a shaded bench, listen to the birds, enjoy the warmth of the season, and see how many roosters you can discover tucked away in the garden. There is something peaceful about slowing down long enough to notice the little things.
Summer also reminds me that the simple traditions are often the best ones. Strawberries are everywhere right now. If you haven’t already, pick up a few baskets and make some freezer jam. It takes very little effort, and when winter arrives—as it always does sooner than we expect—you’ll be glad to open a jar and taste a little bit of July.
While we celebrate the season, there is also an issue affecting families and caregivers across Washington that deserves attention. The Washington Health Care Authority is moving toward a single-vendor system for incontinence supplies. On paper, that may sound efficient. From the perspective of those of us providing hands-on care every day, it raises serious concerns. When a resident needs supplies, we don’t need them next week. We often don’t even need them tomorrow. We need them today. Delays in obtaining essential supplies can affect comfort, dignity, infection prevention, and quality of care. Anyone who has spent time caring for an elderly parent, spouse, or loved one understands that these are not optional items. They are necessities. I encourage families, providers, and concerned citizens to learn more and contact their state legislators.
Your voice matters. You can find your state representatives and senators through the Washington State Legislature’s District Finder:
Washington State District Finder
A respectful phone call, email, or letter can make a difference.
At Hiljay Homes, our commitment remains unchanged. We continue to invest in education and training for our caregivers because excellent care requires lifelong learning. Healthcare is constantly evolving, and our team works hard to stay current with best practices so we can provide the highest quality care possible.
To our caregivers: thank you. Your compassion, professionalism, patience, and dedication make Hiljay Homes the special place it is. The work you do matters more than words can express.
As you enjoy the rest of this beautiful summer, we hope your family gatherings create memories that will be treasured for years to come. Take the photos. Eat the strawberry shortcake. Watch the grandchildren play. Sit outside a little longer than usual.
And don’t forget to look for the roosters quietly nesting in Aina’s Garden.
From our home of Angels to yours,
Happy July, Happy 250th Birthday America…
Jo Ann, Hilary, and all of us at Hiljay Homes.