memories in my own words

A Mother Through The Eyes Of Her Daughter

BY ENCANTERRA® MEMBER MISSY DEBNAR

Many of us grow up knowing our parents simply as, well…our parents. But few get the opportunity to know them as individuals with passions and hobbies of their own.

I have been fortunate to learn so much about my mother, Kathy, over the past few years. This is due to her wiliness to try new activities and learn new skills.

A few years ago, she purchased a home at Encanterra®. This was great for me because I had been living in Encanterra for some time and loved the idea my mom would be living close by, making it more convenient for me to enjoy her amazing meals.

Once she moved in, Kathy immediately began getting involved with “The Good Life” offerings. I soon started noticing she is more than just my mother. She signed up for the clay classes and produced wonderful works of art. Each week, she created beautiful pieces and would display them in her home. As a kid, I never knew she had artistic talent.

During 2020 when social events were limited, my mother frequented the lap pool where she taught herself to swim. Her favorite stroke is the backstroke. She even likes practicing flip turns.

Once events opened up again, Kathy was eager to make new friends. I love seeing her light up when she tells me stories about the people she has met and the things she does. She loves learning new games such as Rummikub, Mahjongg, and Mexican Train at the clubhouse.

We attend the outdoor concerts and dance the day away. Kathy is constantly learning new dance moves. She watches others and asks for tips. Kathy never fails to pick the new dance moves right up.

To keep herself in shape, Kathy does water aerobics and walks in the pool. She also loves to lift weights in the fitness center. She has even had opportunities to play basketball, kick a soccer ball into a very large velcro target and throw axes. I never knew my mom could shoot hoops, kick a goal or throw an axe.

One time, the Club hosted a murder mystery night with a western theme. Kathy was one of the 10 Members who participated as the actors. After learning her role, she created the perfect outfit to fit her character. Kathy didn’t know ahead of time what she’d be asked by the audience. She had to act her part on stage multiple times in front of a room full of our neighbors. She was amazing on stage. Kathy’s confidence and improvisation skills were phenomenal. I had never seen my mom like this, and it was great. Kathy had the whole room cheering for her.

The Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary has visited Encanterra multiple times. Providing educational seminars about birds of prey, alligators, and reptiles of the world. At the beginning of the first seminar, Kathy said she had no interest in touching the animals. However, by the end of each presentation, she was petting the snakes, lizards, and an alligator. Yes, that is right, she pet the six-foot alligator!

Jukebox Bingo is Kathy’s opportunity to test her musical knowledge each month. She laughs so much during this game I can’t help but laugh with her. My abdominals are usually sore from laughing so much from a good time.

During her birthday month each year, she has participated in Gait-to-Gate. She gets her steps in during the scheduled walks and on her own time. This last year Kathy purchased a tricycle to add in more movement. She likes to ride from her house to the Clubhouse to pick up her mail.

Encanterra had a ROCK-A-PALOOZA in 2021. There was a rock wall brought in for this incredible music festival. You might have already guessed it, but yes, Kathy was rock climbing for the first time and she did great. They helped her into the harness, hooked her up to the rope, and she started to climb. She enjoyed the repelling part too.

As life happens so does the not-so-good stuff. In 2022, Kathy was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had surgery and completed radiation. Now, she is breast cancer free. While she was going through this process, Kathy was blessed with much support from her Encanterra friends. They made sure she continued to attend game days at the Clubhouse and dance at the social events.

Watching Kathy thrive has been nothing short of amazing. I now see her as an artist, card and game enthusiast, and an actress. I am grateful for all the opportunities that she has taken advantage of to live a fully active life here at Encanterra.

I love you, Mom. n

WANT TO SHARE YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY FROM THE LAST YEAR? EMAIL US AT MAGAZINE@BSRGMARKETING.COM