Heart to Home's Blog

Heart to Home | Winter Fun!

2012-01-18T13:49:00.000-06:00

Crafts, baking and birthday parties!! We're having a fun winter here at Heart to Home!

Heart to Home | Happy New Year!

2011-12-30T12:44:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year to Everyone!

Heart to Home | Holiday Parties!

2011-12-15T14:26:00.000-06:00

Here are a few pictures from our holiday parties at Heart to Home!

Anne ~ Heart to Home's Activity Director

Amy ~ Heart to Home's Director of Housing Services

Santa came to visit!

The food and drinks were wonderful!

Santa with Josh ~ Heart to Home's Administrator

Residents and Santa

A wonderful spread of food and tasty treats.

A view of the dining room prior to our guests arriving.

Staff and Residents enjoying the night...

Family and friends share food and stories...

Santa arriving at Mendakota Manor!

Santa visiting with children and residents at Heart to Home.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

(A special thank you to Anne, Amy and Santa for such wonderful parties!)

Heart to Home | Preview of Holiday Pics

2011-12-09T14:25:00.000-06:00

We are excited to kick off a fun holiday season here at Heart to Home. We started the season with a staff appreciation party followed by two upcoming holiday parties at the care homes. We look forward to a fun season! Here are some pictures of Heart to Home's management team.

Heart to Home | Fall Fun

2011-11-17T16:16:00.000-06:00

Pumpkin Carving!

Cookie Baking!

Our daily visitors at Mendakota Manor... They love our bird feeders!

Jumbo Crossword Puzzle

Fun Games!

Heart to Home | Halloween Pumpkin Project

2011-10-26T11:56:00.001-05:00

Working on a fun Halloween Pumpkin Project at Heart to Home...

Heart to Home | Halloween Party Part 2!

2011-10-14T10:47:00.000-05:00

Here are some more pictures from Heart to Home's 2011 Halloween / Harvest Party!

We had quite the spread of spooky treats...

Pumpkin Bars

Cookies and Pumpkin Dip

Fun Costumes!

Family, Residents and Friends Enjoying Halloween Games

A beautiful day for lunch outside!

Time for the pumpkin pinata!

The residents sure enjoyed seeing all of the kids in costume...

Thank you to all of the staff for making Halloween 2011 so fun at Heart to Home! It was a lot of fun seeing all of the smiles.

Heart to Home | Halloween Party!

2011-10-11T17:52:00.000-05:00

80 degrees and sunny on October 11, 2011?! Perfect weather for an early Halloween party at Heart to Home! Here are some pictures from the wonderful party. Thank you to all of the staff and families for making today so memorable!

Heart to Home | Padelford Boat Outing

2011-10-04T12:14:00.000-05:00

We had a wonderful time during our 2011 Padelford Boat Outing. The bus picked us up in the afternoon and we enjoyed a 2 hour sightseeing tour along the mighty Mississippi River aboard the Jonathan Padelford Boat. Here are some pictures from the outing...

Heart to Home | Birthday Party & State Fair Party!

2011-09-21T14:48:00.000-05:00

We kicked off last weekend with a fun birthday party!

Yesterday Heart to Home had it's much anticipated State Fair Party! We had a variety of "food on a stick" including a chocolate fountain with fresh fruit and other tasty treats.

Here are some pictures of the State Fair Party in full swing...

Our Activity Director (Anne) greeted family and friends as they arrived at Mendota Manor for the State Fair Party.

Here you can see a few of the tasty treats that were entered into our State Fair Party competition. All of the food and crafts were made by staff and residents of Heart to Home.

Some of the many varieties of personal sized pies...

Garden stones and fresh pickles!

A giant cake sized doughnut!

Balloon making competition!

Heart to Home Gets Voted Top 50 Nursing Home Blogs in US!

2011-09-16T14:09:00.002-05:00

Nursing-Degree-Online.org

Heart to Home | Fun. Fun. Fun!

2011-09-02T15:57:00.000-05:00

We had a fun week here at Heart to Home. We worked on some crafts, went for a walk to the local ice cream shop, arranged flowers, played bingo and enjoyed some meals outdoors.

Dancing to our favorite music!

The resident gardens are looking great!

Bingo is enjoyed by all...

Nothing is better than ice cream on a warm summer day!

Time to work on our sensory garden and arrange flowers...

A beautiful arrangement!

Heart to Home | Back to the 50's & 60's Music in the Park!

2011-08-18T16:02:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a beautiful day in Mendota Heights! Sunny and 80 degrees!

Both houses (Mendota Manor and Mendakota Manor) attended the Back to the 50's & 60's concert in the park (The Village of Mendota Heights) last evening. The event was wonderful! Great music, friends and family, light refreshments and plenty of smiles...

Heart to Home | Baking Mini Pies

2011-08-18T15:54:00.000-05:00

Today we began working on baking some mini pumpkin pies. It was a lot of fun! Plus the end product was delicious!

Heart to Home | Puppy Love!

2011-08-12T09:51:00.000-05:00

A sweet "foster" puppy comes to visit the staff and residents at Heart to Home. It was love at first sight!

Yesterday residents at Mendakota Manor worked on baking a cake. The final product was delicious!

Heart to Home | Crafts

2011-08-01T13:17:00.002-05:00

Creating a new 'garden stone' for display in our resident gardens.

The new addition at Mendakota Manor is coming along nicely! Looking forward to a grand opening in mid-September!

Heart to Home | Independece Day Party!

2011-07-20T16:41:00.007-05:00

Now that's what I call a party! Pics from Heart to Home's Independence Day Parties...

Smiles...

Sunshine...

Family...

Heart to Home | Minnesota Zoo Outing

2011-07-15T11:40:00.002-05:00

Pics from Heart to Home's Minnesota Zoo Outing! We had such a fun time!

Heart to Home | Mendakota Manor Addition Breaks Ground

2011-06-28T12:30:00.002-05:00

The new addition at Mendakota Manor broke ground today! The new addition will feature large private suites and an additional common space (library / sitting area). The new resident suite will be completed in September, 2011. Reservations for the new resident suite are currently being taken. The suite is large enough for an individual or married couple. To learn more contact Josh Cesaro (651) 485-8738.

Heart to Home | Minnesota Zoo Outing

2011-06-28T11:39:00.004-05:00

We had a fun trip to the Minnesota Zoo! Here are few of the photos from the trip...

Enjoying a picnic lunch... The homemade chicken salad was wonderful!

Enjoying the views of the aquarium.

Heart to Home | Sensory Program & Homemade Ice Cream Pics!

2011-06-27T09:46:00.004-05:00

Residents enjoying our sensory herb garden!

Enjoying a bowl of homemade ice cream!

A deer enjoying the shade in Mendota Manor's garden.

Nothing like watermelon on a warm summer day!

More pics of Heart to Home's sensory garden...

Lunch in the great outdoors!

Heart to Home | Gardening & Dancing!

2011-06-03T11:59:00.002-05:00

Dancing the day away!

Heart to Home's resident gardening program has started! Here is one of our raised-bed herb and vegetable gardens.

Mendakota Manor | New Addition Breaks Ground

2011-05-31T10:53:00.002-05:00

Heart to Home is in the beginning phases of a new addition which will add one additional care suite and an additional sitting room to Mendakota Manor. The addition will officially kick-off at the end of June and will be completed in September. We will begin taking reservations for this new care suite this week. For more information please contact Josh Cesaro at 651-454-5250 or info@HeartToHomeInc.com. Check back soon for updated info and pics!

Heart to Home | Spring Bird House Projects!

2011-05-19T10:51:00.004-05:00

Some new bird houses to add to our gardens!

Having fun with painting...

It's been a Happy Spring at Heart to Home!

Heart to Home | Easter Pics!

2011-04-29T11:28:00.003-05:00

We had a lot of fun on Easter this year at Heart to Home. Prior to Easter we worked on some tasty treats, filled Easter eggs for our visitors and prepared for our big Ham dinner. Here are some photos from our Easter weekend...

"Starting Young with Alzheimer's" | Newspaper Article

2011-04-25T12:10:00.001-05:00

Interesting newspaper article regarding early onset Alzheimer's disease in the Minneapolis StarTribune.

Earth Day at Heart to Home

2011-04-23T15:10:00.003-05:00

Did you know that Heart to Home's Mendakota Manor was built GREEN and uses a GeoComfort Geothermal heating and cooling system? According to data supplied by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Geothermal Technologies, nearly 40% of all U.S. emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) are the result of using energy to heat, cool and provide hot water for buildings. This is about the same amount of CO2 contributed by the transportation sector. Versus a conventional fossil fuel system, a standard 3-ton residential geothermal system (such as the one used by Heart to Home) produces approximately one less pound of carbon dioxide (CO2) for every hour of use. Over twenty years, the carbon footprint reduction is equivalent to planting 120,000 acres of trees or converting over 58,000 cars to zero emission vehicles.

Como Zoo & Conservatory Outing

2011-04-05T12:07:00.005-05:00

The residents, resident families and staff had a wonderful time on our Como Zoo & Conservatory outing yesterday! Below is a slide show of our trip. Some highlights included the up-close visit with a sloth, the spring flower exhibit and the primate building. Happy spring!

Activities at Heart to Home!

2011-03-25T10:06:00.003-05:00

We had a fun weekend at Heart to Home. Anne, our recreational therapist, baked cookies with some residents in our sun room.

We also painted birdhouses in preparation for spring!

Melissa, our visiting music therapist, leads a therapy session that was enjoyed by everyone!

Excellent Conference!

2011-03-20T14:25:00.003-05:00

The Meeting of the Minds: Dementia Conference 2011 was an outstanding event! Thank you to all of the hard working people at the Alzheimer's Association, Mayo Clinic, volunteers and speakers / educators who made it such a remarkable day.

Who Who Whooooo?

2011-02-28T22:37:00.003-06:00

A wonderful book that was recently published by a resident of Heart to Home is currently available for purchase on Amazon.com. We are so proud of her achievements with this wonderful book! Purchase your copy today by clicking the Amazon.com link.

Heart to Home | Weekend Fun!

2011-01-31T14:00:00.002-06:00

The staff and residents had a fun weekend baking and decorating cookies, arranging flowers and finishing their Valentine's projects!

Lots of smiles!

Heart to Home | Activities with Anne!

2011-01-27T14:15:00.003-06:00

A fun game of bingo!

Baking cookies...

Working on a fun Valentine's project (cloth wreath's). We are all looking forward to our Valentine's party!

Heart to Home | Birthday Parties!

2011-01-14T12:19:00.003-06:00

We had 2 fun birthday parties over the past week at Mendota Manor! The food and cake requests were picked out by each resident celebrating their big day. Fun was had by all!

Heart to Home | Christmas & New Year

2010-12-30T14:07:00.004-06:00

Holidays at Heart to Home have been very enjoyable this year. We've had a full schedule of activities over the past month that have helped make the snow (and rain!) bearable. Here is a list of some of the fun events over the past month:

"Accordion Pete" (and his chocolate lab!) came to visit and performed a holiday concert last week.
Melissa, our music therapist, came to perform a special holiday concert for residents, friends and family the weekend before Christmas.
Lori, our wonderful visiting hairstylist came and 'glamored up' all of the residents for "Grandpa & Grandma Shots". During "Grandpa & Grandma Shots" each resident gets dressed up in fancy clothing with makeup on, jewelry on, etc... and we take beautiful photos.
We had some very gracious family volunteers come decorate and make beautiful holiday cards.
Amy and Muffy came and decorated beautiful holiday cookies with all of the residents.

Games, crafts, food and visitors aplenty all joined us at Heart to Home over the past month to make this a truly "Magical" time of year. Thank you to all of our dedicated staff, volunteers, ancillary service providers, families, friends and wonderful residents for making 2010 a truly remarkable year at Heart to Home.

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On a special note... We wanted to share some kind words with everyone who help make Heart to Home possible. We were not able to post a PDF version on the blog so we re-typed a holiday card that was sent to us from our visiting music therapist:

"Dear Josh, Amy & all of the staff at Mendota and Mendakota Manors,

I wanted to take a moment to thank you again for the opportunity to work with you and your residents. You have two incredible homes that are clearly among the best of the best in long term care options in the Twin Cities. I would feel very comfortable with my loved one in one of your homes. Not only are the physical structures and operations of your homes incredible, but also you truly do treat the residents with dignity and respect, which sadly is not the standard anymore. From an outsiders perspective it looks more like you are working with family and friends than "residents" which is the way it should be. I commend you again for the care and compassion that you bring to your residents. It is a pleasure and honor to be among your care team. If you could please share this with your whole team I would appreciate it. Thanks again and have a wonderful holiday season!"

- Sincerely, Meslissa Hirokawa, Music Therapist

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Heavenly Hugs by Susan Johnson

2010-11-29T13:41:00.002-06:00

Heavenly Hugs are beautiful teddy bears that are made using clothing and jewelry from loved ones. They are wonderful keepsakes for families grieving the loss of a loved one. Pictured above are two of the bears that Susan made using bathrobes from a loved one. You can learn more about ordering a "Heavenly Hug Teddy" by contacting Susan Johnson at (952) 238-1703 or Hopeas@usfamily.net.

Resident Outing | Como Zoo and Conservatory

2010-11-10T12:35:00.005-06:00

Perfect weather greets us as we arrive at the Como Zoo and Conservatory!

Heart to Home staff and residents begin arriving via bus.

A view of the conservatory fountain. The lush plants, flowers and fruit were amazing!

A resident enjoys watching a new baby giraffe.

Lunch break for staff, residents and family!

Residents and staff enjoying the sights and sounds of the conservatory...

Heart to Home's residents and staff had a wonderful time during our outing. We would like to send a special thanks to the families that generously donated money to our resident outing fund. Thank you!

Heart to Home | New Board Member 2011

2010-11-10T12:31:00.001-06:00

Josh Cesaro, Heart to Home's Administrator and Co-Founder, was recently nominated to the Saint Paul Senior Worker's Board and the Residential Care Providers Network Board. Josh is honored to serve as a board member for these two wonderful organizations.

Heart to Home | State Fair Party

2010-10-13T13:05:00.003-05:00

The staff, residents and resident families had a great time at our State Fair Party!

A friendly Great Dane (Athena the dog) came to visit...

Friends and family mixed and mingled...

Some of the fun treats! Including: fresh popcorn, a chocolate fountain, bbq food, balloon art, an ice cream bar... Good times were had by all!

Here is the display of resident crafts for our State Fair Blue Ribbon Competition. Each resident paired up with a staff member and over the course of two weeks worked together making some beautiful artwork, food, crafts, etc... It was a great way for our staff and residents to connect one on one.

Garden Views of Mendakota Manor

2010-10-13T13:00:00.001-05:00

Here are some great pictures of Heart to Home's Mendakota Manor garden...

The staff and residents at Mendakota Manor planted some sunflower seeds in the spring and look at them now! They're as tall as the roof!

September Staff Training!

2010-10-13T12:54:00.004-05:00

A big "Thank You" to the Regina Medical Center's Grace Unit RNs for providing our staff with continuing education ("Dealing With Difficult Behaviors" and "Strategies for Improving Sleep in Older Adults"). Here are some pictures of Heart to Home's staff at the training session:

Fun Times at H2H!

2010-09-17T14:46:00.003-05:00

A Great Dane comes to visit Mendota Manor! He sure was a sweet dog and a big hit with the residents.

Melissa, our music therapist, strums some tunes for the residents.

The bird feeder thief caught red-handed! We have lots of active wildlife at Mendakota Manor.

Resident Outing | Concert at The Village of Mendota Heights

2010-08-20T11:14:00.003-05:00

The staff and residents had a wonderful time at The Village of Mendota Heights (www.VillageMH.com) on Wednesday evening! We sat outside and watched two wonderful bands perform, mingled with friends, family and neighbors and enjoyed some delicious chocolate sundaes. Here's a picture of the band that performed (The Bunny Clogs). Unfortunately my camera ran out of batteries so I was unable to capture any actual pictures of the fun event (better luck next time!).

Summer Fun at H2H

2010-07-19T12:29:00.002-05:00

A sweet little puppy comes to visit Mendota Manor!

4th of July Family BBQ!

'Accordion Pete' Comes to Visit H2H!

Resident Outing to Osaka Seafood Steakhouse Restaurant

2010-06-17T21:11:00.008-05:00

The staff and residents had a wonderful time during the recent outing at Osaka Restaurant in Apple Valley. The chefs at Osaka thrilled us by cooking our entire meal in front of us. It was quite the show!

The future of long term care?

2010-05-21T20:14:00.003-05:00

Here is a wonderful article outlining the benefits of residential care homes. Smaller settings, such as Heart to Home, have created a new culture in long term care... One that is sure to continue growing in popularity. You can read the article by CLICKING HERE

The Healing Power of Touch

2010-05-12T20:39:00.002-05:00

Massaging the hands of residents with dementia can be a powerful tool in helping them feel less stressed and more relaxed. There is growing awareness of the value of therapeutic massage and skilled touch for elders with dementia. More and more elder-care communities are incorporating the services of a licensed massage therapist, but caregivers of all kinds possess the power of touch to help manage behaviors and improve the quality of life of the elders they care for...

Click Here to Read the Full Article in Provider Magazine

Heart to Home's team of CNAs, RNs and LPNs utilize the healing power of touch to help improve the lives of our residents.

Music Therapist Visit!

2010-05-06T20:56:00.003-05:00

Our new music therapist Melissa Hirokawa came to Mendota Manor today. She was great! The residents loved the music so much. She will be performing at Heart to Home on a regular basis. We will also be working on creating an intergenerational music program (with the local daycare) at Mendakota Manor in the coming months. Learn more about Melissa @ http://livingspirittherapy.com

Dr. Stivland Featured on Fox 9 News

2010-05-04T18:19:00.003-05:00

Dr. Todd Stivland, our visiting doctor at Heart to Home, was featured in a recent news story on Fox 9 News. Please view the video below @ http://www.myfoxtwincities.com/dpp/news/dr.-leaves-clinic-behind-for-house-calls

Charlie Comes to Visit Heart to Home!

2010-04-26T13:49:00.002-05:00

Last Friday, Josh's 8 month old son Charlie came to visit the residents at Mendota Manor and Mendakota Manor. He was a big hit and will be sure to come back soon!

New Music Therapist at Heart to Home

2010-04-09T15:11:00.004-05:00

We are excited to begin working with Jenna, a music therapist, specializing in senior care and memory care therapy. Jenna will begin visiting the residents at Heart to Home starting at the end of April. Some unique features of her therapy include 1:1 song writing and art / music therapy integration. You can learn more about the benefits of music therapy at http://www.musictherapy.org or http://www.musictherapy.org/factsheets/MT%20Alzheimers%202006.pdf

Jenna will be a nice compliment to our activity program which also includes visits from Accordion Pete, therapy pet visits, beautician visits, etc...

Heart to Home | Easter Celebration

2010-04-05T11:58:00.002-05:00

We would like to thank all of the friends and family who came to celebrate Easter at Heart to Home over the past weekend. We had a wonderful turnout for our ham dinner celebration (20 - 30 guests total!). We look forward to a fun spring and summer!

Exercising & New Year Party at Heart to Home

2010-01-12T13:13:00.003-06:00

Getting ready for the New Year party with a festive hat!

A fun game of ball toss at Mendota Manor.

Stretching and exercising is an important part of everyone's day.

Holidays at Heart to Home!

2009-12-04T13:19:00.005-06:00

Yes, it's that time of year again! The holiday season is upon us. Here are a few of the fun activities that are going on at Heart to Home.

Residents enjoying the outdoor views.

Allison, our winter activities intern, helps the residents decorate the Christmas tree. We're proud to say that all of the ornaments on the tree were homemade by the staff and residents of Heart to Home!

Staff and residents enjoying a game of Yahtzee. Yahtzee is a fun and popular dice game that residents and staff like to play at Heart to Home.

Accordion Pete and his beautiful chocolate lab make their monthly appearance and performance at Heart to Home. In the month of December we will have the opportunity to host a group of Christmas Carolers from a local church.

Halloween was a fun time at Heart to Home! With the help of our intern we were able to make some fun pumpkins and candy treats. We even had some trick-or-treaters stop by in the evening.

How creative?! The staff and residents carved Heart to Home's logo into a pumpkin. That takes talent.

Mendota Manor's Addition

2009-12-04T13:06:00.002-06:00

The footings for the addition can be seen in this picture. Once the addition is completed then it will be tied into the existing home. The final addition will provide Heart to Home with one couple suite and one private suite. So far the weather has cooperated nicely and we are still on schedule to open the two new suites in early 2010.

Here is a view of the foundation and footings with the poured concrete walls. The entire addition will have in-floor heat! This will be a nice treat during the cold Minnesota winter months.

Here you can see the massive crane in the background that was used to pump the concrete to the addition. The neighbors at Mendota Manor have been incredibly gracious during the entire process. We are so lucky to be a part of such a wonderful community.

A street view of the crane that was used to pump the concrete to the addition behind Mendota Manor. Starting next week a large portion of the exterior work will be completed and we will begin working on the interior. The finishes that have been selected for the addition are first class and will blend beautifully with the existing home.

Letter Writing Project Begins at H2H!

2009-11-06T19:33:00.003-06:00

With the help of some local high school student volunteers, Heart to Home, has created a program for our residents and staff to say 'thank you' to the brave men and woman who serve our country in the armed forces. To learn more about how you can say 'thank you' please visit http://amillionthanks.org/

Addition to Begin at Mendota Manor

2009-11-06T19:29:00.003-06:00

Beginning the week of November 9th we will be breaking ground for the addition behind the garage at Mendota Manor. This will be a great addition to the home and will provide us with two additional private room options at Heart to Home. Please check back for updates and pictures of the progress.

Padelford Boat Outing

2009-10-20T13:24:00.004-05:00

The staff and residents from Heart to Home recently went on a 2 hour Padelford Boat Tour (www.riverrides.com). We had a wonderful time enjoying the sights along the river and reminiscing about growing up in the Twin Cities...

Views of the fall leaves were spectacular!

One of the Padelford Boats

Views of the Mississippi River banks

Passing a nearby marina

Residents Enjoy Manicures and Pedicures!

2009-09-14T16:22:00.002-05:00

One of the fun activities at Heart to Home are resident manicures and pedicures! We love to pamper our residents...

Therapy Dog Visits and New Landscaping!

2009-07-21T14:57:00.003-05:00

Mendota Manor's resident garden in full bloom!

Mendota Manor's new flagpole, a dedication to a previous resident.

Mendakota Manor's new landscaping and front patio.

Mendakota Manor's new patio and barbecuing area.

Mendakota Manor's new landscaping and lawn!

"Vinny" the therapy dog comes to visit Heart to Home.

"Accordion Pete" Comes to Visit...

2009-06-17T09:57:00.003-05:00

Peter a.k.a. "Accordion Pete" came to visit the residents and staff at Heart to Home. Peter comes to visit Heart to Home monthly and plays live music for the residents. He's wonderfully entertaining and is accompanied by his beautiful chocolate lab. The residents (and staff) love when they visit!

"Vinny" The Therapy Dog Comes to Visit

2009-06-04T16:46:00.003-05:00

"Vinny" the therapy dog came to visit us at Mendota Manor today. The residents and staff enjoyed spending time with him and his owner. There's nothing like a friendly dog to help relieve you of the stresses in the day! In fact, studies show that human-pet interaction actually lowers heart rate and blood pressure. If you own a therapy dog and would be interested in bringing him/her to visit the residents at Heart to Home please call us at (651) 454-5250.

Heart to Home's Weekly Daycare Visit!

2009-05-29T16:48:00.002-05:00

A local daycare comes to visit the residents of Heart to Home. During the visit residents of Heart to Home read the children books and work on art projects together.

A resident of Heart to Home visits with one of the kids from the local daycare.

Heart to Home values the importance of intergenerational programs. We encourage local school groups and daycares to come visit our residents. During the visits we offer programs and projects which help strengthen intergenerational relationships and competencies. If you're interested in learning more about how you can participate in these programs please contact Heart to Home at (651) 454-5250.

Cooking Fun at Mendakota Manor

2009-05-15T16:25:00.004-05:00

Residents and staff of Mendakota Manor enjoying their homemade "birds nest" cookies.

A resident of Mendakota Manor works on cooking homemade "birds nest" cookies.

Cooking is one of the many fun activities that is enjoyed by residents and staff alike.

Enjoying Checkers & Cookies

2009-02-26T17:06:00.003-06:00

Valentine's Day cookies made by the staff and residents... Yum!

Staff and residents enjoy a fun game of checkers!

Puzzle Time at Mendota Manor

2009-01-12T16:00:00.002-06:00

Resident and staff enjoying a puzzle together...

Birthday Celebration at Heart to Home's Mendota Manor

2009-01-12T15:40:00.002-06:00

Birthday celebration at Heart to Home's Mendota Manor!

2008 Heart to Home Holiday Party

2008-12-19T15:33:00.011-06:00

Heart to Home's holiday party! We had a wonderful turnout of between 60-70 guests (staff, residents and resident families). We served a delicious homemade dinner and even had a chocolate fountain.

Here's a picture of our Christmas tree... Complete with homemade ornaments, which were made by the residents and staff of Heart to Home.

Pictures from the party...

Holidays at Heart to Home

2008-12-08T14:58:00.002-06:00

Here is our Christmas tree at Mendota Manor! All of the ornaments were homemade by the residents and staff of Heart to Home. We're having a family and friends holiday party on December 18th which we're all VERY excited for (plus we get to show of the beautiful tree)!

Halloween Birthday Party!

2008-11-03T15:58:00.002-06:00

Here is the beautiful pumpkin cake that our staff made for one of our resident's birthday parties! We love to celebrate birthdays at Heart to Home...

Mendakota Manor | Eco-Fiendly Design

2008-11-01T15:47:00.008-05:00

Mendakota Manor ~ "A Better Way to Live"

Here you can see the front of Mendakota Manor. This beautiful eco-friendly home features geo-thermal heating and cooling, solar tubes and was built using sustainable practices. This home also features 5 huge luxury care-suites, a salon / spa, movie theater room and all the bells and whistles that you've come to expect from Heart to Home.

Here you can see views of the residential neighborhood where Mendakota Manor is being built. Heart to Home promotes inclusion and community connections by building senior care homes in residential neighborhoods..

Here is a view of one of our large care suites. Each suite features ample storage space, dedicated phone and cable connections, beautiful outdoor views and large private bathrooms with roll-in showers.

Mendakota Manor | Roof & Windows

2008-10-09T14:31:00.009-05:00

Here's a view of Mendakota Manor with it's new roof and windows. We've come a long way since breaking ground in August, 2008. We plan on opening in early January and are currently taking reservations. This residential care home will feature state-of-the-art green building technologies including geothermal heating and cooling systems.

Here is another view of Mendakota Manor during construction. Here you can see the roof being worked on.

A view of our new signs located at our homes. Please feel free to stop by for a visit!

Memory Walk 2008

2008-09-30T15:16:00.002-05:00

Heart to Home's Walking Team proudly walked at the Alzheimer's Association's 2008 Memory Walk. Despite the early morning weather there was a wonderful turnout and over $280,000 was raised in support of the Alzheimer's Association!

The Alzheimer's Association, the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research, is dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for Alzheimer’s.

The Alzheimer's Association's vision is 'a world without Alzheimer’s.'

Mendakota Manor | Foundation & Walls!

2008-09-22T22:02:00.010-05:00

Walls go up at Heart to Home's new Mendakota Manor!

Another view of Mendakota Manor. This spacious senior care home will feature 5 care suites and over 6,500 square feet of beautiful common areas.

This beautiful wooded lot will be the perfect setting for Heart to Home's new residential care home.

Here you can see Mendakota Manor's full lower level which will feature a luxurious spa / salon room for it's residents.

Mendakota Manor | Construction Begins!

2008-09-04T20:36:00.005-05:00

Here you can see the beautiful new lot where Mendakota Manor will be built. Mendakota Manor will be another premiere residential care home.

Here you can see Mendakota Manor's foundation being poured.

This is a view of Mendakota Manor's foundation being dug.

Minnesota State Fair Trip 2008

2008-08-25T17:07:00.003-05:00

Today Heart to Home's residents went on a trip to the Minnesota State Fair. We enjoyed the beautiful 70 degree weather, people watching and seeing all of the animals!

Recent Resident Outing @ Local Restaurant

2008-07-31T03:01:00.004-05:00

The residents of Mendota Manor had an enjoyable social outing at a local restaurant!

Pictures from Mendota Manor

2008-07-24T22:51:00.005-05:00

Enjoying beautiful summer weather!

Relaxing during movie night!

Ice cream in the park!

An evening on the front porch!

Pet Visits on the Back Patio!

Mendota Manor | Exterior Almost Finished!

2008-05-18T21:38:00.003-05:00

Mendota Manor's exterior is almost finished!

Heart to Home Featured at 2008 Elder Care Expo

2008-05-18T21:34:00.004-05:00

Nancy Frank and Josh Cesaro pose for a picture in front of the Heart to Home booth at the 2008 Elder Care Expo. Heart to Home shared a booth with Companion PAWS (Pets & Wellness for Seniors). Notice Countache, the friendly Llama in the back of the picture!

Pet Visits at Mendota Manor!

2008-04-24T10:17:00.003-05:00

Lily, one of our 'regular' visiting pets is seen here enjoying one of our residents!

Mendota Manor is NOW OPEN!

2008-04-24T10:10:00.004-05:00

Mendota Manor...
Luxury Suites. Professional Nursing Care. All the Comforts of Home.

Here is the Grand Entry at Heart to Home's Mendota Manor.
The sidewalk, driveway and landscaping will begin in May and should be finished in early spring.

Elder Care Expo May 9-10, 2008

2008-04-14T13:13:00.004-05:00

Come visit Heart to Home at the 2008 Elder Care Expo at the Saint Paul State Fair Grounds May 9-10th 9am-7pm. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $8 or online .

We will be sharing a booth with our good friend Nancy Frank from Companion PAWS.

Nancy will be bringing along one of her pet Llamas to the show!

This should be a great event chalked full of useful information! We hope to see you there...

An excerpt from the Elder Care Expo Website:

What is Elder Care Expo?

"For Boomers and Their Parents ...
Minnesota's first-ever Elder Care Expo is an educational event designed for you. The event brings together government agencies, nonprofits, private organizations and people just like you under one roof with one simple goal: to help you find solutions for your elder care challenges.

Today, one in five adults is responsible for managing some aspect of the finances and/or healthcare of a family member who is 65 or older, and approximately 80 percent of home-care services are provided by family caregivers. Do you count yourself among them? If so, then you know all the frustrations, stress, and complexity associated with navigating one's way through today's elder care system, and you know that help is hard to find.

Whether you are struggling to find ways to care for a loved one's needs today, or for your own needs in the future, Elder Care Expo provides the answers and support that you so desperately need."

Quilt Raffle Update

2008-04-14T13:06:00.002-05:00

And the winner of our quilt raffle was...

Lynn Mesna!

Congratulations Lynn for winning this beautiful homemade quilt! Your donations and support will be greatly appreciated by the Alzheimer's Association.

Heart to Home proudly raised over $220 in donations for the Alzheimer's Association from our 1st Annual Quilt Raffle!

Mendota Manor | Opening Soon!

2008-04-01T22:46:00.029-05:00

Here's the beautiful new kitchen at Mendota Manor. Notice the oak cabinets, granite counter tops, tile back splash, oil rubbed bronze pendent lights, oak floor... no detail was overlooked in this beautiful home.

Here you can see the four season north woods porch complete with leather furniture and amazing views of nature and the expansive secure backyard. The backyard will feature handicap accessible raised bed gardens and a large deck for residents to enjoy.

Another view of the kitchen and four season porch areas...

A wonderful place to enjoy a meal with family and friends!

Here's a view of the library with built-in oak bookcases and fireplace complete with stone surround.

A view of the dining room and living room... Mendota Manor was designed to be open, comfortable and wander friendly.

Another view of the spacious living room and dining room. Notice the quilt on the far wall... This quilt is being raffled, with all proceeds being donated to the Alzheimer's Association. The wall where the quilt is, will be the future home of our LCD flat panel television.

A view of the north woods four season porch!

Our kitchen features state of the art stainless steel appliances.

A picture capturing the the entire great room... Amy, our house manager is in the upper left hand corner.

Our four season north woods porch... A wonderful place for our residents to reflect, relax and rejuvenate...

A view of the backyard from the four season north woods porch. Once the weather improves we will begin landscaping our expansive 1/2 acre lot with many amenities for our residents to enjoy. Providing safe and secure outdoor spaces for our residents to enjoy is an important hallmark of Mendota Manor.

A view of the large great room at Mendota Manor.

Here's a view of the handicap accessible main bath complete with roll-in shower, soaking tub and in-floor heat!

Another view of the main bath...

Here is one of our companion suites... Notice the homemade quilts. All of our residents receive a homemade quilt ~ Just one way we welcome our residents to Mendota Manor.

A view from one of the suites into the main living area.

Here you can see one of the private handicap accessible bathrooms. Every suite features it's own private bathroom.

Mendota Manor's great room... A beautiful place to call home.

Mendota Manor's library will be a wonderful place to snuggle up and enjoy stories with family and friends.

Mendota Manor's memory boards. Read below for an explanation of what they are...

Our main entryway at Mendota Manor.

Welcome home to Mendota Manor!

"A Reason To Hope" | Quilt Raffle

2008-03-13T17:21:00.007-05:00

Heart to Home and Timberworks Renovations Inc. will be raffling a homemade quilt. Raffle tickets cost $5 and all proceeds will be donated to the Alzheimer's Association. To purchase a raffle ticket please visit us during our open house (the quilt will be on display) March 28 (1-7pm), 29 (12-6pm) and 30th (12-6pm) or call (651) 485-8738. The winner will be drawn during the first week of April. The winner's name will be posted on this blog and will also be contacted directly to claim their beautiful prize!

A special thanks to my mom, Margaret Moxley, for donating this beautiful quilt...

Here's a view of both the front and back (blue side) of the quilt. This quilt was hand crafted and quilted. The quilting details are spectacular!

This will be a wonderful quilt to snuggle up with...

This is dedicated to all those that have been affected by Alzheimer's Disease.

Mendota Manor | Two Weeks to Open House!

2008-03-13T14:10:00.014-05:00

We're two weeks from the open house / Parade of Homes Remodelors Showcase tour! This week we installed most of the lighting, tile, granite counter tops and are preparing for the grand opening.

Here's a view of the large great room.

Here you can see the new tile floors, oak vanity (which is wheel chair accessible) and the lighting.

Here is 1 of 3 roll-in showers.

The large laundry room has ample storage and beautiful tile floors.

A view of the library complete with oak columns, built-in book shelves and stone fireplace.

This is the large main bathroom which features a soaking tub and a roll-in shower. All showers have adjustable shower heads with flexible attachments, which allows us to easily bathe residents who might have a fear of showers and/or bathing.

A view of the kitchen and great room. The granite has beautiful coloring which ties in all the colors of the home.

Another view of the spacious kitchen. The oak cabinets feature under cabinet lighting and the kitchen was designed in a U-shape so that residents can help the staff prepare cookies and other household favorites.

A view of the granite counter tops.

The exterior of Mendota Manor is finally thawing! When the weather allows, we will finish the landscaping, plant gardens, add a driveway and walkway. It will be a gorgeous exterior.

Mendota Manor | One Month to Grand Opening!

2008-03-03T13:32:00.011-06:00

Heart to Home's new memory care home, Mendota Manor, is 1 month away from it's grand opening!

Come tour Mendota Manor during the
'Spring Parade of Homes Remodelors Showcase'
Friday March 28 - 1-7 pm
Saturday March 29 - 12-6 pm
Sunday March 30 - 12-6 pm

Here is a view of the beautiful Mendota Manor.

This is a view of the large great-room, with oak cabinets. In the next week or two the flooring will go in and we'll be ready for the stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops and lighting.

This is a view of one of the private showers located in one of our luxury memory care suites.

Here is the gas fireplace in the library sitting area. This room will feature wood floors with in-floor heat and built-in oak bookcases.

This is a view of one of the private bathrooms featuring a handicap accessible vanity.

Here is Heart to Home's new top of the line stainless steel LG fridge.

Last, but not least, the large main bathroom. The main bathroom is complete with bathtub, wheel-in shower, in-floor heat and tile throughout.

Mendota Manor | Call to Schedule a Tour!

2008-02-20T12:48:00.012-06:00

Welcome to Mendota Manor!

Here is a great view of the Wirsbo in-floor heat coils. Notice that the entire home has in-floor heat. This will feel great during long Minnesota winters.

Here is the library sitting area complete with gas fireplace. The gas fireplace will be surrounded in stone. The wall colors throughout the home are rich earth tones used to relax, calm and sooth our residents.

Here is a view of one of the front bedroom suites with in-floor heat. This suite has wonderful views of the front yard and neighborhood.

Here is a view of the crown molding in one of the suites... No detail was overlooked.

Here is the 'north woods' four season porch finished in knotty pine to give it a welcoming northern Minnesota feel... A perfect place to reminisce. Notice the beautiful views of the pine trees in the backyard. There will also be bird feeders located around the windows for residents to enjoy.

A view of the backyard from the four season porch.

Another view of the in-floor heat located throughout the home.

A view of one of the suites located in the back of the home. These suites have excellent views of the gardens and lush trees in the backyard.

Here is the lower level office... The lower level is going to be wonderful! It will be a great place for grandchildren to play, for friends and family to gather and for staff in-service training.

Starting to Feel Like a Home...

2008-01-29T10:36:00.000-06:00

Here is Heart to Home's new lower level office! It provides ample space for meetings, document storage and an egress window in case of emergencies.

Here you can see the Wirsbo in-floor heating system. There will be seven zones throughout the home that can be adjusted to meet our resident needs.

Here are the two large water heaters... There will never be a shortage of warm baths and showers!

This is a view of the large lower level activities area. Notice the egress window for safety.

Here is another view of the large lower level activity area.

This is a view of one of the suites complete with great views, large spaces for resident enjoyment and private bathrooms.

This is a view from the kitchen toward the front entryway. We placed a wall directly in front of the front entry way to help discourage resident elopement and have made all bedroom entrances visible from the kitchen which allows Heart to Home staff to safely and effectively monitor residents. These are just some of the many examples of our commitment to safety and design for those with memory care needs.

This is a view of the "north woods" four season porch. Notice the knotty pine woodwork, large windows with views of the backyard gardens / trees and the high vaulted ceilings. This will be a wonderful gathering space for residents and their friends and families.

This is a view of the library sitting area. It features a gas fireplace and ample space to relax and enjoy afternoon tea / coffee and snacks.

Here is a good view of the four season "north woods" porch, the future kitchen and one of the entry ways to the bedroom / suite. Each suite has a location for a memory board where residents and their families will be able to post all of their wonderful life memories, pictures of friends and family, life accomplishments etc... Memory boards play an integral role at Heart to Home as they help our staff to get to know the residents better and allow us to develop a deep meaningful relationship with our residents.

Here is a view of one of the suites at Mendota Manor.

Here you can see Mendota Manor at her finest. It won't be long before we're open!

Here is a view of the large backyard. This will be a wonderful space for summer picnics, barbecues and gatherings.

Mendota Manor Now Has Roof, Walls & Windows!

2008-01-09T09:51:00.000-06:00

Here's Mendota Manor with windows, a roof and some siding. Notice the nice front porch / patio sitting areas.

Here you can see the main bathroom with a large bathtub and a wheel-in handicap accessible shower.

This is a view of the lower level. Notice the in-floor heating coils that are being installed. The in-floor heat will be installed throughout the home and will keep our residents feet nice and toasty in the winter.

Here's Mendota Manor's library area. There will be two large columns separating this room from the living room. This will be a perfect place for our residents to enjoy an afternoon of fun with friends and family.

Here's Mendota Manor's "north wood's" four season porch. Notice the nice views of the backyard where residents will be able to enjoy activities, bird watching and views of their gardens.

This is a view of the living room / front door from the kitchen area. We designed the home so that our 24 hour staff can have an easy view of all the resident's suites... allowing us to quickly tend to all our residents' needs.

Last, but not least, a view of the home from the backyard. Again, the backyard will be fully fenced (tall cedar fencing) and secured and will be a wonderful place to host afternoon barbecues with family and friends.

Mendota Manor's Exterior Walls Are Up!

2007-12-13T08:14:00.000-06:00

Here's the new Heart to Home sign at Mendota Manor! If you're in the neighborhood please feel free to stop by for a brochure (they will be attached to the sign). This is going to be a wonderful alternative for your loved ones in need of memory care.

Here's a nice view of Mendota Manor from the street. This home is coming right along. It now has all the exterior walls completed.

Timberworks Renovations is hard at work. In the upper right hand corner is the library and in the upper left hand corner is the 4 season "north woods" porch with panoramic views of the trees in the large backyard.

Here's a view of one of the suites which has a beautiful view of the trees in the backyard.

This is a view of the front door from the back of the home. We will put a wall up covering direct views of the front door to prevent resident elopement. This is another example of our commitment to providing a safe residence for those with memory care needs.

Here's a direct view of the "north woods" four season porch. Notice the large windows, the sweeping views and the door access to the backyard deck.

A view of one of the suites at Mendota Manor.

Another suite at Mendota Manor. Don't forget, all suites will have a private bathroom!

The walls are going up at Mendota Manor!

2007-11-28T20:43:00.000-06:00

Mendota Manor's foundation is in place and the framing begins...

Here is the lower level bedroom. This bedroom will be one of the largest with a bright and sunny egress window, in-floor heating and extra tall ceilings.

The sub-flooring is being installed. We're on our way!

Timberworks Renovations is hard at work building our beautiful home.

A view of the lower level mechanical room and the door to one of the bedrooms.

Here is a view of the huge lower level complete with an egress window, in-floor heat, extra tall ceilings, 1 of 5 bedrooms and a bathroom.

Mendota Manor is going to great!

Another view of Mendota Manor. Notice that the main level sub-floor is almost ready to go!

Here is the first wall at Mendota Manor! This is the wall of our "up north" 4 season porch, a bright and sunny place for our residents and their families to enjoy.

Excavation of Mendota Manor's Foundation Begins!

2007-11-18T20:46:00.001-06:00

Excavation begins at 659 Freeway Rd. S., Mendota Heights.

Here is a view of Mendota Manor's front yard and future driveway.

The foundation is dug and footings are being cast. The forms for the poured concrete foundation are being prepared.

Here's a good picture of the concrete forms that are used for the poured foundation. This is a view of the home from the front left corner.

Another view of the large yard and forms for the poured foundation.

This is a picture of the beautiful pine trees in the backyard. This will be a wonderful retreat for the residents!

This is a view of the home from the backyard looking towards the front yard. Notice how HUGE this home is going to be! The lower level will have two egress windows for safety, tall ceilings, our medical office and a huge craft / activity area for quilting, knitting, crafts, bingo, etc...

To the left in this picture is the two car garage and to the right is the front of Mendota Manor!

A view of the driveway and the street out front.

Mendota Manor's builder will provide us with 1st class accomodations!

2007-11-16T10:01:00.001-06:00

Timberworks Renovations Inc., our builder, has put together a wonderful design for Mendota Manor. The home is going to be a green home (energy efficient), wander friendly and will feature many wonderful amenities! We're so excited to watch the progress as it's built. To view previous Timberworks Renovations projects visit www.TimberworksRenovations.com

Views of the land prior to construction of Mendota Manor

2007-11-16T09:39:00.000-06:00

View of the neighborhood from Mendota Manor.

Another view of the neighborhood from Mendota Manor.

Here is where Mendota Manor will be built! It's a beautiful 1/2 acre lot with lush trees and plenty of room for resident gardens.

Another view of the lot prior to construction.