Meet Jane: From Orchard Roots to Blooming Friendships at Bickford
If you visit our garden here at Bickford, chances are you'll find Jane with a watering can in hand and a smile on her face.
Long before she joined our community, Jane and her husband ran a beloved garden stand just a mile south of town on Highway 61. It sat on 22 beautiful acres they nurtured together—until the airport expanded and bought all but five. Not ones to be discouraged, they planted an orchard on those remaining acres, turning challenge into opportunity.
Jane fondly remembers the joy of chatting with customers at the stand—learning their stories while sharing her homegrown produce. After her husband passed, Jane could no longer manage the orchard alone, but her love for gardening never left. She kept a small garden at home and kept her green thumb busy.
Now, she's found new purpose and connection in our Bickford Gardening Club. Jane brings a wealth of knowledge, a deep love for the earth, and a heart full of generosity. She teaches our team about different kinds of produce, planting tips, and how to care for a thriving garden. She's even been known to give advice to our BFMs (Bickford Family Members) about their own home gardens!
Whether she's guiding a new gardener or simply helping us water, Jane reminds us how much joy can grow from just a little dirt and a lot of heart.
Thank you, Jane, for helping our garden—and our community—bloom.
#BickfordMoments #GardenWithHeart #ResidentSpotlight #LifeAtBickford #GreenThumbLove #BickfordOfBurlington
Dakota Blodgett
Jul 28, 2025
Meet Jane: From Orchard Roots to Blooming Friendships at Bickford If you visit our garden here at Bickford, chances are you'll find Jane with a watering can in hand and a smile on her face. Long before she joined our community, Jane and her husband ran a beloved garden stand just a mile south of town on Highway 61. It sat on 22 beautiful acres they nurtured together—until the airport expanded and bought all but five. Not ones to be discouraged, they planted an orchard on those remaining acres, turning challenge into opportunity. Jane fondly remembers the joy of chatting with customers at the stand—learning their stories while sharing her homegrown produce. After her husband passed, Jane could no longer manage the orchard alone, but her love for gardening never left. She kept a small garden at home and kept her green thumb busy. Now, she's found new purpose and connection in our Bickford Gardening Club. Jane brings a wealth of knowledge, a deep love for the earth, and a heart full of generosity. She teaches our team about different kinds of produce, planting tips, and how to care for a thriving garden. She's even been known to give advice to our BFMs (Bickford Family Members) about their own home gardens! Whether she's guiding a new gardener or simply helping us water, Jane reminds us how much joy can grow from just a little dirt and a lot of heart. Thank you, Jane, for helping our garden—and our community—bloom. #BickfordMoments #GardenWithHeart #ResidentSpotlight #LifeAtBickford #GreenThumbLove #BickfordOfBurlington
Dakota Blodgett
Jul 24, 2025
Today we took a trip down memory lane and turned back the clock to the fabulous 50s! From poodle skirts and slicked-back hair to root beer floats and rock 'n' roll, our residents had a blast reliving the good old days. The jukebox was playing, the dance floor was hopping, and the smiles were contagious. Thank you to our amazing team for making this nostalgic day so special! #BickfordOfBurlington #WhateverItTakes #SeniorLiving
Katelyn Woodward
Jul 18, 2025
Don't cancel your summer vacation- you deserve the break! Let your loved one vacation with #BickfordofBurlington while you are away! Their all-inclusive vacation will include- 24-hour care available- Daily activities- 3 daily home-cooked meals- Private bathroom with a walk-in shower- a furnished apartment- and so much more! Have your loved one retreat with us while you soak up those sunrays with a peace of mind! Call Dakota today to learn more about our retreat stays! (319)371-7572
Haley Robinson
Jul 17, 2025
What a beautiful day to get outside and soak up some sunshine! Our residents took full advantage of this gorgeous Iowa weather by heading out to the garden for some fresh air, a bit of weeding, and harvesting fresh veggies from our garden beds. Everyone pitched in to make sure the plants were happy and hydrated, and the joy on their faces as they picked vegetables was truly heartwarming. We were also treated to an extra-special surprise — a generous donation of sweet corn from our wonderful neighbors at First Church of the Nazarene, grown right behind our building! Our residents had a blast shucking the corn, and we enjoyed it together at lunch the next day. Delicious and made with love! A huge THANK YOU to the First Church of the Nazarene for their thoughtful donation — it made our day even brighter. #summertimejoy #gratefulhearts #freshveggieshomegrown #Iowadays #bickfordofburlington
Haley Robinson
Jul 16, 2025
Music on a Monday morning is just what we like to hear!! Jack & Maureen joined us for a beautiful sing-along session, and it was an absolute treat! Jack played the guitar, Maureen brought her magic on the flute, and they shared music sheets so everyone could sing along. The room was filled with music, laughter, and great energy – truly the perfect combination. Thank you, Jack & Maureen, for lifting our spirits and starting our day on such a high note! #musiconmondaymorning #jack&maureen #suchadelight
Haley Robinson
Jul 9, 2025
It was a perfect Wednesday afternoon to get out and about to enjoy a cold, sweet treat from Mississippi Moon Ice Cream Parlor and a creative stroll through the Burlington Art Center! Even though we got a little wet on the walk, the joy of seeing their own artwork—and that of other communities—made it all worthwhile. Everyone expresses creativity in their own way, and it was truly inspiring to see the variety and beauty in the pieces on display. A huge thank you to the Burlington Art Center for hosting us and showcasing our residents’ hard work, and to Mississippi Moon for the delicious treats on such a beautiful day! "Art is not what you see, but what you make others see." – Edgar Degas #creativityatitsfinest #artandicecream #beautifulday #greatafternoon
Haley Robinson
Jul 8, 2025
Sundaes on a Monday?! Only at Bickford of Burlington! We kicked off National Strawberry Sundae Day a little early—and let’s just say, the joke of the hour was: “How are we having a sundae on a Monday?!” Our living room was packed, laughter was loud, and spirits were high—because seriously, who in their right mind would turn down ice cream on a hot summer day? A HUGE shoutout to our amazing Kitchen Manager, Amanda, for whipping up the most delicious homemade strawberry topping and serving it all up in the cutest little sundae dishes. She truly knows how to sprinkle some extra sweetness into our days! Here’s to cool treats, warm smiles, and celebrating the little joys in life—one scoop at a time! #nationalstrawberrysundaeday #bickfordofburlington #sundaefunday #enrichinghappiness
Cassandra Miller
Jul 7, 2025
Why Choosing Assisted Living Is a Smart Move for Your Loved One When it’s time to think about the next chapter for your aging parent or loved one, assisted living offers more than just a safe place to live—it offers peace of mind, community, and support. 1. Safety & Security With 24/7 staff, emergency response systems, and thoughtful design, assisted living communities provide a safe environment that helps prevent accidents and ensures help is always nearby. 2. Independence with Support Residents enjoy their own space and freedom while receiving just the right amount of help with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, or medication management. 3. Social Connection Loneliness can be harmful to health. Assisted living offers a vibrant community, social activities, and shared meals that keep spirits high and friendships strong. 4. Healthy Living From nutritious meals to wellness programs, assisted living communities promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being—tailored to each resident’s needs. 5. Peace of Mind for Families No more worrying if mom took her meds or if dad had a good meal. You’ll know your loved one is cared for, so you can enjoy more quality time together. Making the move to assisted living isn’t giving up independence—it’s gaining freedom with support. It’s about choosing quality of life. Ready to learn more or take a tour? Contact Dakota today—we’re here to help every step of the way (319) 754-7500. #AssistedLiving #SeniorCare #PeaceOfMind #HealthyAging #FamilyFirst #BickfordSeniorLiving
Dakota Blodgett
Jul 4, 2025
A Night to Remember! Last night, we brought the celebration home with a special firework display right outside our front door — and what a magical evening it was! ✨ Residents were able to enjoy the dazzling show from the comfort and safety of their own homes, surrounded by friends, laughter, and the spirit of summer. To make it even more memorable, we had a very special guest — Miss Teen Rodeo Iowa! She spent time chatting, laughing, and lighting sparklers with our residents, bringing smiles and joy to everyone she met. Thank you to all who helped make this night so special. These are the moments that remind us how powerful connection, community, and a little sparkle can be. #BickfordSeniorLiving #IndependenceDay
Haley Robinson
Jul 3, 2025
Creative sparks were flying this morning! Our residents rolled up their sleeves and got glittery, creating their very own 4th of July fireworks using glue, glitter, and black construction paper—and WOW, did they shine! It was more than just a craft—it was a celebration of creativity, imagination, and patriotic pride. From swirling bursts to dazzling spark trails, each masterpiece was uniquely their own. We’re so proud of the incredible artwork they made—proof that creativity has no age limit and always finds a way to sparkle. #4thofjulycrafts #creativeminds #fireworkglitterfun #patrioticpride #celebratingindependenceday