As the year winds down and we look ahead, our incredible Directors of FACETS® across all communities are already in high gear, strategically planning and fine-tuning every detail for our 2026 Health & Wellness initiatives! They are actively collaborating with our Directors of Fitness and Directors of Health and Wellness to create the best possible activities and experiences for our residents in the new year. This collective passion, professional camaraderie, and dedication to resident well-being is truly the foundation of Grand Living’s commitment to enriching, active, and healthy lifestyles.
And speaking of that supportive spirit, we are thrilled to bring you a unique, exciting day-in-the-life point of view from one of our very own directors! This blog post is a fantastic glimpse into the collaborative and fun culture that makes working at Grand Living such a special experience. Read on for a look at the latest Director exchange adventure and the wonderful people who make our communities thrive.
My Big Great Riverstone Adventure
By: Grand Living at Tuscan Lakes’
Director of FACETS®, James Colquitt
Today, I set off on what can only be described as a full-scale FACETS® adventure: a Director of FACETS® swap between me and Grand Living at Riverstone’s own Jessica Hill. What began as one of my classic “Hey… what if we tried THIS?” ideas somehow transformed into an actual scheduled event, which, let’s be honest, was already a victory worth celebrating. Coordinating anything across communities feels like winning a gold medal in synchronized swimming. Blindfolded.
I pulled into Sugar Land with nerves so loud they needed their own nametag. But the second I stepped through Riverstone’s doors, poof; gone. The residents, the staff, the energy, all of it immediately made me feel welcome.
A huge shoutout to FACETS® Assistant Ariel, made me feel right at home and handled so much of the heavy lifting that I was free to jump into the adventure headfirst, energized and excited.
And I didn’t travel alone. My friend and talented country musician Tucker Hart joined me and performed a beautiful and soul-stirring set for the residents. His rendition of “Into the Mystic” might be one of my favorite Grand Living moments ever. The way his voice filled the room, the way the residents joined in, the way the air almost shimmered, for a moment, I swear I felt like I was floating. Thank you, Tucker, for adding pure magic to the day.
Then came the residents and what a cast of characters they are. I had the joy of leading Who Am I and The Verdict, and I met unforgettable personalities at every turn.
- Ms. Carol became my unofficial spokesperson, tour guide, and hype woman, introducing me to everyone faster than I could keep up.
- Mr. Tony kept me grounded with one-liners so sharp I realized I need to seriously up my game. The man is a comedic weapon.
And then there was Shayda Landi, Riverstone’s fabulous Director of Fitness, who was incredibly kind and welcoming. Shayda, I have a confession: when I said I liked soccer, I lied. I do not. I find watching grass grow more exciting. Please don’t ban me from the fitness center.
But beneath all the laughter, the jokes, and the joyful chaos, something meaningful settled in: What makes Grand Living special isn’t the building. It’s the culture. The people. The heartbeat. And that heartbeat is the same no matter which Grand Living you walk into.
My Big Great Riverstone Adventure reminded me that we are all part of a bigger family, one that embraces, encourages, and uplifts, no matter the location. Now I’m ready to return home to Grand Living at Tuscan Lakes and back to my residents, my team, my routines, and, of course, my beloved shenanigans.
A final thank-you to my Executive Director, LT (Thurmond), for not only approving this wild idea, but for encouraging every creative spark that leaps out of my brain.
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Ready for Your Own Grand Living Adventure?
Discover FIRST CLASS HAPPINESS® and enriching lifestyle James is talking about!
- 💡 Learn More About Our Programs: Interested in the philosophy and variety of engaging activities and wellness programs created by our FACETS®, Fitness, and Health Directors?
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