ome people like to tap into their imagination to create amazing arts and crafts, and others just want to kick back and relax! Fortunately for us, our team members are incredible at creating events for both, and we couldn't be happier seeing all of the smiles that come as a result.A few of our communities broke out the paint this last week as Tacoma (WA), Auburn (WA), and Bankers Hill (CA) residents went to town on their creations! Tacoma went with a space theme as they made a few captivating depictions of the earth.Auburn residents went above and beyond with their portraits and they were jaw-dropping! We might have to stop in and get our portraits done as well.At Bankers Hill, residents repurposed everyday tiles and transformed them into creative art pieces. We can't wait to see them displayed in the community.Last Saturday was National Puzzle Day, and our residents in Gilroy (CA) made sure not to miss out! With so many people getting in on the fun, they were able to fill an entire wall with their completed masterpieces. We can't even imagine the number of pieces that were placed to make this happen.Barkley Place (FL) residents put on their biggest hats to enjoy an extravagant tea time complete with delicious tea, finger foods, and plenty of enjoyable company. It always makes us so happy to see smiling faces all around the community!Whether you're in the mood to create or just relax this week, we hope your February is off to a great start!

As we settle into the fall, Merrill communities all over the country are putting together their best seasonal activities and celebrations! From wacky spirit weeks to pumpkin-themed crafts we are excited to see what this next chapter of 2021 has to offer.Residents and team members in Tacoma (WA) celebrated the changing of the season with a fun-filled Spirit Week! The entire community was split into three teams and took part in themed days such as crazy hair day, team color day, and others. They also set up activities for everyone to enjoy like karaoke, an egg-spoon relay, and a scavenger hunt!Another Washington community, Ballard, welcomed fall with a gorgeous tram ride through the University of Washington Botanical Gardens and also took the time to celebrate residents with September birthdays!Residents in Monterey (CA) also wanted to take advantage of the good weather and enjoy some fall scenery as they took a day trip to Gizdritch Ranch. Surrounded by friends and a ton of tasty snacks, it looks like the trip was a huge success!The Oaks (AZ) residents are taking on bread baking as we head into autumn! This week they made delicious focaccia and added a little pizzazz with some vegetable art on top.Two Pennsylvania communities brought out the crafts as Glen Mills and Arbour Square residents got creative with some everyday materials! At Glen Mills they found a fun new way to store toilet paper as they created their very own decorative pumpkin wrappings.At Arbour Square, residents worked on some colorful fall-inspired wreaths to spice up the front of their doors! We hope you take some time to enjoy the long list of wonderful fall activities in the coming weeks! We know we will!