‘Twas the night before New Year’s Day

Ardenwoods residents came together to welcome 2025 in many special ways. Whether dancing the night away or attending the resident-only ball drop watch party, they made the most of the evening.

The local band Tuxedo Junction fueled dance moves ahead of a buffet-style dinner.

During the performance, resident Jim Ward presented a community toast and read aloud the historical version of Auld Lang Syne, a Scottish tune that bids the previous year farewell.

Afterward, residents proceeded to a showing of The Maltese Falcon. Guests were welcomed by large movie posters and a sign that read “Spade and Archer,” the detective agency featured in the movie. Also, for display, two residents carved and painted a replica falcon featured in the movie—talk about talent!

Event planner and resident Larry Grein dressed up as an usher and brought the experience to life, using his flashlight to guide residents to their seats. Many attendees dressed up for the occasion and were treated to popcorn, candy, and non-alcoholic martinis.

Meanwhile, Jan Rowland, ball drop watch party coordinator, was resting in preparation for her longer-than-usual night. A few weeks before the party, Jan and others slipped party invitations under the doors of residents. The dress code listed pajamas and slippers—what fun!

Starting around 11 p.m. that night, residents made their way to the Bird’s Nest, a communal room in the Evergreen building, with their potluck-style midnight snacks in hand. There was an array of meat, cheese, crackers, cookies, fruit, and dips.

“I put out a red cloth to spruce up the food table and also party horns to toot as the clock struck midnight,” said Jan. “It was quite fun.”

Jan and her planning committee originally planned the party for residents of the Evergreen building, but they welcomed one special guest from the Magnolia building.

“With a total of nine people, it was small but sweet,” said Jan. “We were cozied up by the fireplace, in our pajamas and all! “It was quite lovely, socializing, eating, and talking together.”

And just like that, along came 2025! This group of nine watched the New York City ball drop, and because the clock on the wall was behind a minute or two, they celebrated midnight twice! Attendees took extra food to the Ardenwoods employee area in hopes that they would also enjoy the yummy treats.

“Even now, a few weeks later, people are still wishing each other a happy new year; it’s really cute,” said Jan.

Jan moved to Ardenwoods five months ago from Ohio and is loving her Ardenwoods experience.

“It is quite lovely here,” said Jan. “It is such a pleasure meeting and spending time with everyone. We go to the theatre, coffee shops, restaurants, and much more.”

One of Jan’s 2025 resolutions is to travel to New England with her children. She is very fond of traveling but has had little time for trip recently amongst her big move to Ardenwoods.

Jan and all residents made New Year’s Eve quite the celebration. How special to ring in the new year with their Ardenwoods family!