In less than three weeks, Americans across the country will busy themselves preparing traditional holiday feasts. They will spend hours in hot kitchens preparing delicious meals with all the trimmings. Yet, when the last holiday dish is cleared hours later, exhausted cooks will wonder just where the day went.

Like their human companions, the dogs living at Greenspring keep very busy schedules. Whether strutting their stuff in the annual pet parade, exercising in the new “bark park,” or volunteering their time, these ambitious canines make the most of every day.

“People here wouldn’t believe it, but [my husband], Don, used to be a real quiet guy—reading and writing, taking it easy in retirement. Since we’ve moved to Greenspring, he’s become Mr. Personality. He greets everyone, and he’s joined several groups,” says Kathleen Henry on why moving to Greenspring was one of the “smartest decisions [they’ve] ever made.”

After more than a year of planning, preparing, and building, Ashby Ponds officially opens its doors Thursday, October 2 to a fanfare of festivities. Almost 600 community members, Erickson staff, and local politicians come together to celebrate this important milestone.

Ashy Ponds' new kitchens tempt the senses and satisfy taste buds

During my five years writing for The Erickson Tribune, I have enjoyed many wonderful opportunities to sample the variety of menu items provided at Erickson’s campuses. Whether dining in one of the on-campus restaurants or attending an informational luncheon, I am always pleased by the creative and full-flavored entrees created by Erickson’s imaginative chefs.