Although I won’t be sharing Thanksgiving dinner with my parents, I am grateful that they will enjoy a nice holiday meal at Evergreen Court Independent Senior Living.

In recent years, residing more than 400 miles from my aging parents has weighed heavily on my heart. After living in Coos Bay since 1973, my folks sold their home this past spring and moved a mile up the road to the adult community in North Bend.

At the onset of the pandemic, my folks hunkered down in their home — both octogenarians and my pops with a weakened immune system. They discussed moving to the Hermiston area to be closer to me.

However, suitable housing wasn’t readily available. Also, after living in the temperate climate on the Oregon coast since the early ’70s, they weren’t entirely keen on the idea of living in Eastern Oregon, especially with the extreme temperatures of the summer and winter months.

Although they talked about moving into a retirement community, they remained hesitant. And then in mid-February, they signed a contract at Evergreen Court.

After receiving the keys to a two-bedroom apartment, they began moving in at their leisure (as if there’s anything leisurely about moving an entire household after nesting for nearly 50 years). They were invited to enjoy meals at the facility before their official move-in date. Although there were stressors associated with moving and selling their house, I could hear the sense of relief in their voices when we talked on the phone.

John and I decided to delay visiting until after they got settled. I’m extremely grateful for my mom’s friend, “Sherri Girl,” whose entire family pitched in to help. In addition to sorting through their garage room, they coordinated multiple trips to haul stuff to the landfill and thrift stores, as well as helping them move and decorate their place at Evergreen Court.

We decided to time our visit during my mom’s 85th birthday. While I told my folks we would head to the coast on Nov. 6, we drove down the day before.

Knowing my folks wouldn’t expect us until the evening, I got up early to surprise my mom. She meets with a group of ladies at 7:30 a.m. for breakfast. As I entered the dining room, my mom’s back was to the door. I walked beside her and kissed her on the cheek — her reaction was priceless.

Everyone, residents and staff alike, was extremely friendly. The facility has been recognized four years in a row by A Place for Mom.

My pops said it’s been a positive move because they don’t have to worry about grocery shopping, meal preparation, vacuuming and doing a bunch of dishes. He’s also happy that my mom has made many new friends.

In addition to three meals a day, which can be delivered or eaten in the dining room, Evergreen Court offers a variety of amenities and activities. The Friday social time, featuring hors d’oeuvres, cake and music by the South Coast Trio, happened on my mom’s 85th birthday. My folks even shared a special moment on the dance floor.

I’m definitely grateful for a place for mom and pops!