A Day in the Country: Bus Trips to See Cows & Baby Cows with Bickford Senior Living
At Bickford Senior Living, we believe that joy is found in life’s simple pleasures — and few things are as heartwarming as spending a day surrounded by gentle cows and their adorable calves. Recently, our residents hopped aboard the Bickford bus for a countryside adventure that brought smiles, laughter, and a touch of farm-fresh magic.
The Journey Begins
The morning air was crisp, and the bus was filled with chatter as we set off toward a local dairy farm. Windows down just enough to let in the scent of fresh hay, our residents reminisced about their own farm memories.
Meeting the Herd
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the soft, curious eyes of the farm’s gentle giants. The adult cows stood calmly in their pens, chewing cud and flicking their tails, while the baby calves stole the show. With their wobbly legs, velvety noses, and playful nuzzles, they had everyone reaching for their cameras (and their hearts).
The Ride Home
As the bus rolled back toward Bickford, the conversation was filled with laughter and stories. Some residents shared how the trip reminded them of their childhood farms, while others simply enjoyed the peacefulness of the day.
Why We Love These Trips
Outings like this aren’t just about seeing animals — they’re about connection. Connection to nature, to each other, and to cherished memories. At Bickford Senior Living, we know that these moments of wonder and companionship are what make life truly rich.
Until Next Time…
We can’t wait for our next countryside adventure. Whether it’s cows, baby goats, or fields of sunflowers, we’ll be there — together, making memories one bus trip at a time.
#Bickfordseniorliving #CARD #Memorycare #Montessori
Tonya Girsch
Mar 31, 2026
Together Through Every Season: The Gift of Shared Life at Bickford Senior Living Marriage is a journey of shared laughter, challenges, and countless little moments that weave two lives into one. For many couples, the thought of being separated in later years—especially when health needs change—can be one of the most difficult fears to face. At Bickford Senior Living, that fear is replaced with comfort, dignity, and the reassurance that love can remain side-by-side, even when care needs differ. A Place Where Love Stays Close One of the most beautiful aspects of Bickford Senior Living is its commitment to keeping spouses together. Whether one partner needs memory care while the other is more independent, or both require different levels of support, Bickford works to ensure couples can remain in the same community—and often in the same apartment—so they can continue sharing daily life. Care That Honors Your Story Every marriage has its own rhythm, traditions, and inside jokes. Bickford’s personalized care approach respects that history. The staff takes time to learn each couple’s story—how they met, what they enjoy, and what makes them feel at home—so that care feels less like a service and more like an extension of family. Moments That Matter From enjoying morning coffee together in a cozy apartment to holding hands during an afternoon stroll, Bickford creates an environment where couples can focus on what truly matters: each other. Even when health challenges arise, the emphasis remains on connection, comfort, and shared joy. A Home for the Heart For couples who have spent decades building a life together, Bickford Senior Living offers more than just a place to live—it offers a place to keep living together. It’s a promise that love, companionship, and shared memories will continue to flourish, no matter what the future holds. #Bickfordseniorliving #CARD #Memorycare #Montessori
Stephanie Erickson
Mar 31, 2026
Finding a “Higher Path” together at Bickford Senior Living For a married couple like Wayne and Linda moving into assisted living isn’t about slowing down it’s about strengthening their bond. As Wayne’s number one fan, Linda can stop being the full-time caregiver and go back to being the supportive wife that she’s always been. At Bickford, their higher path model shifts to the focus of reactive sick care to proactive wellness. It’s designed to help residents live happier, healthier, and longer lives through expert therapy, proactive care, and quality time. At Bickford, we don’t just care for our residents, we support the love stories that live here.
Tonya Girsch
Mar 30, 2026
Finding Comfort in Every Forecast: Relaxing at Bickford Senior Living There’s something magical about the way weather shapes our days. Whether the sun is streaming through the windows or a gentle rain is tapping on the roof, each moment offers its own kind of beauty. At Bickford Senior Living, we believe you can enjoy that beauty in two equally wonderful ways — from the cozy embrace of your favorite recliner or while sharing the day with friends outdoors. The Joy of Indoor Comfort Sometimes, the perfect way to enjoy the weather is from the warmth of your own space. Picture yourself nestled into a soft recliner, a warm blanket over your lap, and a cup of tea in hand. Sunlight spills across the room, or perhaps you’re watching a wonderful movie. Indoors, you can savor the weather without braving the elements — a peaceful retreat that feels like a gentle hug. #Bickfordseniorliving #CARD #Memorycare #Montessori
Tonya Girsch
Mar 30, 2026
A Day in the Country: Bus Trips to See Cows & Baby Cows with Bickford Senior Living At Bickford Senior Living, we believe that joy is found in life’s simple pleasures — and few things are as heartwarming as spending a day surrounded by gentle cows and their adorable calves. Recently, our residents hopped aboard the Bickford bus for a countryside adventure that brought smiles, laughter, and a touch of farm-fresh magic. The Journey Begins The morning air was crisp, and the bus was filled with chatter as we set off toward a local dairy farm. Windows down just enough to let in the scent of fresh hay, our residents reminisced about their own farm memories. Meeting the Herd Upon arrival, we were greeted by the soft, curious eyes of the farm’s gentle giants. The adult cows stood calmly in their pens, chewing cud and flicking their tails, while the baby calves stole the show. With their wobbly legs, velvety noses, and playful nuzzles, they had everyone reaching for their cameras (and their hearts). The Ride Home As the bus rolled back toward Bickford, the conversation was filled with laughter and stories. Some residents shared how the trip reminded them of their childhood farms, while others simply enjoyed the peacefulness of the day. Why We Love These Trips Outings like this aren’t just about seeing animals — they’re about connection. Connection to nature, to each other, and to cherished memories. At Bickford Senior Living, we know that these moments of wonder and companionship are what make life truly rich. Until Next Time… We can’t wait for our next countryside adventure. Whether it’s cows, baby goats, or fields of sunflowers, we’ll be there — together, making memories one bus trip at a time. #Bickfordseniorliving #CARD #Memorycare #Montessori
Tonya Girsch
Mar 27, 2026
The Simple Joy of Reading in the Comfort of Your Apartment at Bickford Senior Living There’s something timeless and deeply comforting about curling up with a good book. At Bickford Senior Living, where life is designed to be both engaging and peaceful, reading can become more than just a pastime—it can be a cherished daily ritual. A Cozy Corner, A World of Stories In your own apartment, you have the perfect setting to create a personal reading nook. Maybe it’s your favorite armchair by the window, where the afternoon sun spills in, or a soft blanket draped over the couch. Add a warm cup of tea or coffee, and suddenly, you’re not just in your apartment—you’re in another world entirely, guided by the pages in your hands. The Gentle Rhythm of Relaxation Reading offers a kind of relaxation that’s both calming and enriching. As you turn each page, your mind drifts away from daily worries and into the lives of characters, the beauty of far-off places, or the intrigue of a mystery. It’s a quiet escape that doesn’t require leaving the comfort of home. #Bickfordseniorliving #CARD #Memorycare #Montessori
Bianca Bennett
Mar 27, 2026
Our Spring Shopper’s Showcase is quickly approaching! Join us Saturday, April 11th!
Stephanie Erickson
Mar 26, 2026
One of the things we hear most from families is: “We wish we had started looking sooner. “ The truth is, assisted living decisions are often made during a stressful moment-after a fall, illness, or hospital stay. But planning ahead can make all the difference. We all start with the same promise: I will take care of her myself. But health issues have a way of changing the rules. What started as simple plan of action , turns into a 24 seven vigilance. You’re no longer just a daughter or son; you’ve become a nurse, a security guard, chauffeur and a chef. . If you feel frustrated, exhausted, or even angry, you aren’t failing- you’re simply at the end of what one person can humanly do. At Bickford Senior Living of Marshalltown, joining our waitlist, doesn’t mean you have to move right away. It simply gives your family options and peace of mind if the need of arises. Sometimes the best gift we can give our loved ones is a plan. If assisted living has crossed your mind for someone you love, we’d love to meet you! Schedule a tour and ask about our waitlist today. 641-354-5996
Bianca Bennett
Mar 26, 2026
There’s never a bad day to be pampered! Shirley is enjoying a manicure with a fresh coat of polish from BFM Cecilia this morning.
Bianca Bennett
Mar 25, 2026
Tic-tac-toe fun this afternoon! Betty barely nudged out Linda did the win, with Joanie cheering everyone on from the sidelines. Our branch was full of camaraderie, laughter and great friendship all around!
Stephanie Erickson
Mar 24, 2026
At Bickford Assisted Living of Marshalltown our residents aren’t just living - they’re thriving. Through our Higher Path Senior health model, we focus on proactive care, meaningful engagement, and personalized support designed to help seniors live happier, healthier - longer. Peace of mind for families. Better health outcomes for residents. A higher standard of care. To our caregivers: thank you for choosing the higher path! You don’t just work in a building, you create a home! You are the heartbeat of everything we do! If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to explore assisted living, let’s have a conversation. Call us today to learn how your loved one can get on the Higher Path. #higherpath #bickfordseniorliving #marshalltown