Lately, the Iowa weather has been doing what it does best—keeping us guessing! Even when the skies are gray and the temperatures are chilly, we’re keeping things warm and sunny here at Bickford by staying busy, sharing laughs, and enjoying time together. We’re also getting excited for St. Patrick’s Day and already starting to get into the festive spirit! Look at our own special Blarney Stone’s we made since Ireland is a bit of a jaunt. Hopefully, with our make shift stones we still receive the gift of gab!

Some highlights lately include a wonderful pet therapy visit when our BFM Max brought in his sweet cats for the residents to love on, making our own DIY tallow soap (which was such a blast!), and spending meaningful time together at Bible study. We’ve also kept moving with exercise, enjoyed music, and had fun getting crafty. We celebrated Johnny Appleseed Day by making delicious caramel apples, and of course we had a very special celebration for Mary’s 95th birthday today!

New Health and Wellness Director staff engagement caffeine hydration station. so great to reward our staff with something that they all enjoy while also allowing for them to get to know the new director. It is also a great time to grab a pick me up snack for some added energy.

Life at Bickford has been busy in the best way. It’s a great reminder to slow down, enjoy the present, and appreciate time together. We’re soaking it all in and looking forward to a fun and relaxing weekend ahead!

At Bickford Senior Living of Ames, homemade isn’t just a word — it’s how we care. Our made-from-scratch meals are thoughtfully prepared to meet the nutritional needs of seniors, with quality protein, fresh ingredients, and balanced flavors that support strength and wellness. From warm rolls to comforting classics (and yes, dessert too!), every bite is served with nourishment, comfort, and community in mind.

Life at Bickford Senior Living has been so busy and so much fun… we almost forgot to post about it! From celebrating Valentine’s Day and crowning our very own Queen Bernie J and King Dick DeMoss, to getting down and dirty for Fat Tuesday aka Mardi Gras, it’s been one celebration after another! In between the parties, we’ve been filling our days with meaningful moments — Bible study, birthday celebrations, fresh manicures, arts & crafts, and so many sweet laughs shared together. Around here, it’s all about making special memories, celebrating the little things, and living happy every single day. We wouldn’t have it any other way!

We’ve been having such a fun week so far! We enjoyed celebrating the Super Bowl together with good food and lots of laughs. We also had music with a special guest that got everyone smiling and tapping their toes! Billy the puppy stopped by with one of our favorite performers Paul Davis! We had some friendly competition during bingo, and even enjoyed some adorable bunnies. So many little moments that make our days extra special. Stay tuned for our Valentine’s Day celebration and King/Queen Coronation! Our BFM Katelynn is pictured making sure the crown is fit enough for our soon to be announced royalty!

We had such a great week here at Bickford Senior Living! From Dogs and Donuts to music, Bible study, dirty soda bars, and getting creative with clay art vases — our community was filled with smiles, laughter, and good times. Later today we are going to enjoy the Super Bowl together. Watching the big game and soaking up all the fun energy that comes with one of the most exciting days in sports! We will be refreshed and ready for Monday and a brand-new week ahead — full of fun, connection, and more memories to make!

Happy Monday from all of us at Bickford Senior Living! Today was a day filled with smiles, good conversation, and a little extra celebration as we gathered to honor a special birthday! We’re grateful for these moments that bring our residents together and make our community feel like home. Wishing everyone a peaceful, joy-filled week :)

Babies, Bunnies, Bingo and more! Our residents here at Bickford of Ames never have a dull moment. It’s the little things that make our days so lovely.