Gordon started driving tractors at 11 years old and it’s been a passion of his ever since. Now in his 90s, “Mr. Farmer” (as some have nicknamed him) reminisces about living on the farm cultivating corn with horses, one row at a time. Gordon enjoyed life in rural McDonough County, living in the house he grew up in until the chores started to be too much for him. The memories of riding and driving tractors are still strong, and adjusting to life away from the farm has been tough. So Robin and Megan coordinated with the local Birkey’s Farm Store to deliver a bright, shiny, orange tractor...just for Gordon! Gordon practically jogged to the brand new machinery smiling from ear to ear as if it was Christmas morning.  He hopped right up, looking as comfortable as can be. Robin and Megan were so happy to share that moment with Gordon!

A St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs rivalry makes for a very entertaining situation here at Bickford. One resident in particular, Doris, has had a passion for the Cardinals ever since she was a child. Her dad and brother were fans and she often watched the games with them. She has gone to many games and respects how the players visit the children’s hospitals in St. Louis. For the 89th MLB All-Star Game, Cardinal and Cubs resident fans came together for a special baseball themed day. Everyone looked at old baseball cards, played baseball trivia, ate stadium-themed food and sang ‘Take Me Out to The Ballgame’. Naturally, Doris was all decked out in her Cardinal outfit with a cardinal on her shirt that she had painted herself! She bragged that she let another resident borrow a team t-shirt and even designated another resident as a cheerleader. All of the fun and laughs just made Doris’ day. Doris shared that when she turns 100, she’s going to Busch Stadium and throw out the first pitch!

It's always a fun day when taking a cruise in a bright, shiny, red convertible! Mary Jane's sister, Connie, visits from Wisconsin often, but this time she drove her snazzy hot-rod! Robin and Nicole were happy to help Connie surprise Mary Jane with a cruise around Macomb. It was a gorgeous day; birds were chirping and the sun was just heating up for summer when Connie pulled into the drive. She arrived at the front door with sunglasses and scarves in tow for Mary Jane and herself because everyone knows you have to look good when you're riding in a fancy car! Mary Jane's smile was infectious and the laughter from the sisters, as they got into the car, made everyone else's hearts smile too!

Lorna loves reading the Macomb High School sports headlines to stay up-to-date on the tournaments, championships and awards of her successful all-star golfer granddaughter, Lillie. Our director, Robin, noticed Lillie was nominated for “Athlete of the Week” which is an online competitive contest with online voting. Robin made sure Lorna was able to contribute and vote online for her #1 Golfer with just a touch of a button on a cell phone. Lorna’s family loved that Lorna was able to make a contribution to Lillie’s accomplishments even with today’s technology.