Her love of flowers has motivated “floral giving” throughout her life. “One year, I made Easter arrangements for all my children, and I often make Mother’s Day arrangements for the mothers in our family.”
– Allison Holland
Her love of flowers has motivated “floral giving” throughout her life. “One year, I made Easter arrangements for all my children, and I often make Mother’s Day arrangements for the mothers in our family.”
– Allison Holland
It’s spring. Garden club meetings abound, and judges travel throughout the United States awarding the best floral arrangements. One of those judges is Allison Holland, and I catch her just before she flies to Houston, where, as a representative of the Garden Club of America and the Founders Garden Club of Dallas, she will use her considerable talents to elate some contestants and disappoint others. She does this about six times a year – and she will be 89 in August!
Who, I ask, inspired her to love and work with flowers? “My Mother! When I was little growing up in Houston, my mother would say, ‘Go into the yard and bring some flowers for our dinner party.’ I would bring some back and arrange them!” said Allison. “I was always making little arrangements, and my favorite books growing up were The Secret Garden and Thumbelina.”
Her love of flowers has motivated “floral giving” throughout her life. “One year, I made Easter arrangements for all my children, and I often make Mother’s Day arrangements for the mothers in our family,” she says. “I do arrangements also when there are personal losses, as well as for special birthdays for friends and family.” She says she provided the Sunday altar flower arrangements for St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church for years.
Allison lights up when she recalls a volunteer project involving flowers in Honolulu. “After my husband, Chico (Charles), and I married, he was stationed in Hawaii as a Major in the Air Force,” she says by way of background. “It was paradise! So, we stayed. We spent 60 years there and raised our family.”
While there, she says that she and other members of the Garden Club of Honolulu (part of the Garden Club of America – GCA) visited the women’s prison, the Women’s Community Correctional Center, to view the large and beautiful trees there. She heard of GED educational classes offered to the inmates and asked if they might be interested in a flower arranging class.
“Establishing such a thing with the prison officials was considered to be almost impossible, but I took it as a dare!” said Allison. “Eventually, every month three members of the GCA were given about 12 women to instruct, and they brought enough flowers from which the women could make arrangements. These were then given to various charity organizations.” This was in the 1990s, and the program is still going on today! The program eventually won their chapter a national GCA award – and all because of Allison’s original idea and tenacity to see it through.
We sit in their apartment at The Tradition-Lovers Lane, and I view the beautiful flowers growing on their porch, their “lanai.” I see the vibrant colors and patterns in their décor, and the art on the wall – much of which she has painted – and I understand there is a lot more to Allison than her love of flowers.
“I ran my own interior design company, Creative Designs, for 54 years and was a long-time member of ASID, the American Society of Interior Designers,” she said. I happen to know that this organization normally requires one to have a design degree, and her degree was in Sociology from SMU!
The work of this self-taught designer has been published in nine hardcover design publications and numerous magazines. She has worked in England and France as well as the U.S. Allison still runs her own stationery business, “Notable Florals,” displaying flowers she has painted on note cards—with 300 designs from which to choose.
Her awards, board memberships and additional volunteer work are too numerous to recount here and do justice. She has also written and published three hardcover books: Through Aspen’s Eyes (about their kitty), Dinner Plates (on entertaining and cooking), and Rainbows and Shadows (her life story).
Suffice it to say that this energetic, vibrant woman has lived a life in which she has utilized her multiple, God-given talents to inspire and give to others – and she continues to do so.
Linda Faulkner Johnston – The Tradition
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Aging brings changes to both body and mind, making brain health an essential part of overall well-being. While some cognitive decline is a natural part of aging, research suggests that lifestyle choices can help support mental sharpness and long-term wellness. More seniors and their families are prioritizing holistic approaches to brain health, seeking ways to promote cognitive function and maintain an active, fulfilling life.
The Role of Lifestyle in Brain Health
Maintaining cognitive function isn’t about a single solution—it’s about adopting a lifestyle that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. From nutrition to movement, sleep, and social engagement, several key factors play a role in promoting brain health and overall longevity.
A Diet That Fuels the Mind
Nutrition plays a powerful role in supporting brain function. Diets rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients may contribute to cognitive resilience. The Mediterranean and MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diets emphasize:
- Leafy greens, berries, and colorful vegetables
- Whole grains, nuts, and legumes
- Healthy fats like olive oil and omega-3-rich fish
Incorporating these foods into daily meals can provide essential nutrients that contribute to overall well-being.
Keeping the Mind Active
Lifelong learning and mental stimulation are key to cognitive health. Engaging in activities that challenge the brain—such as reading, solving puzzles, learning a new skill, or exploring creative hobbies—can help keep the mind sharp. Structured programs like educational workshops, guest lectures, and discussion groups encourage ongoing learning and cognitive engagement.
The Connection Between Movement and Memory
Physical activity is often linked to better cognitive function. Exercise may improve blood flow to the brain, encourage neuroplasticity, and support overall health. Simple yet effective activities include:
- Walking, yoga, and low-impact strength training to support mobility and coordination
- Group fitness classes that provide both physical and social benefits
Staying active doesn’t just strengthen the body—it can also promote brain health and overall vitality.
The Power of Restful Sleep
Sleep is essential for memory retention and cognitive repair. Good sleep hygiene can help support mental clarity and emotional well-being. Establishing healthy sleep habits may include:
- Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine
- Reducing screen time and blue light exposure before bed
- Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing
Prioritizing restful sleep can enhance overall cognitive resilience and daily functioning.
Social Engagement and Emotional Well-being
Strong social connections are vital for mental and emotional health. Engaging in meaningful conversations, participating in group activities, and maintaining close relationships can help seniors feel connected and purposeful. Whether through family gatherings, community events, or interest-based clubs, staying socially engaged can provide a sense of belonging and cognitive stimulation.
Managing Stress for Mental Clarity
Chronic stress can have an impact on brain health. Incorporating mindfulness practices—such as meditation, deep breathing, or engaging in relaxing activities like gardening or music—can help reduce stress and promote emotional balance.
Creating a Supportive Environment for Brain Health
As seniors and their families explore living options, many are looking for communities that prioritize a holistic approach to wellness. A setting that fosters healthy dining, engaging activities, and social connection can contribute to cognitive and emotional well-being.
At The Tradition, we recognize that overall wellness extends beyond just physical health. Our communities provide opportunities for residents to stay active, connected, and engaged—encouraging a lifestyle that supports both body and mind. If you or a loved one are beginning the search for senior living, we invite you to explore how The Tradition fosters a fulfilling and enriching way of life.
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© 2008 - 2019 Tradition Senior Living. All rights Reserved.
© 2008 - 2019 Tradition Senior Living. All rights Reserved.