Jing, Kelly & Chao, at the CottageHappy Winter Solstice! Merry Christmas & Healthy New Year! Chao Xie and his elder sister, Jing Xie, from Quincy, MA, along with Kelly Beer, from Salem, MA, joined me and Karl for holiday magic, fellowship and fun at the Cottage and in the Garden on Saturday, December 18, 4pm – 7pm. Jing expressed the greatness of offering such an event for individuals, couples, and families living with chronic illness or disability. She said the only reason she joined her younger brother on this trip (Chao leads hiking trips for AMC* Boston Chapter 20’s and 30’s committee) is because he mentioned the garden was wheelchair-accessible, and she wanted to see how it was built! She is studying master’s level architecture at UMASS Amherst, and will return to China to design skyscrapers when her study is complete.
Kelly Beer is a nurse working with Adult Foster Care of the North Shore. She could think of many people the gardens and programs could benefit. She said she’d spread the word, and arrange for me to speak to her professional team.
The guests enjoyed the seasonal eggnog, apple cider, and trail mix. A holiday music playlist played in the Garden and at the Cottage. We talked for nearly 3 hours about many aspects of outdoor access for a majority of people needing universal design, easy engagement, and joyful experiences.
Chao, Mary & Jing, at the CottageBright Tree, at the CottagePellet Stove, at the CottageCandlelights, at the Welcome AreaWood Fire, at the Welcome AreaRefreshments, at the Welcome Area
