IN THE MIDDLE OF IT ALL.

Getting Back to School With Central

It is unfortunately not the most wonderful time of year because it is officially back-to-school season. Central wants everyone to be prepared for another great school year and squeeze out any summer fun left! While it may be hard to believe, the summer season lasts until Saturday, September 23rd. 

First and foremost, let’s get outside and enjoy the summer weather, in any way you can! Anything from walking around our beautiful Central property and taking advantage of our pool, sundeck, and 24-hour fitness center. Take your workouts outdoors or just relax while soaking up some vitamin D. 

After getting in your sunshine time, enjoy relaxing and the final lazy days of summer. Who says you can’t binge-watch your favorite tv show or movie trilogy? It’s the perfect time to rewatch The Hunger Games movies or catch up on those tv shows you’ve been meaning to watch. Whether you’re a reality tv fan and still haven’t watched The Traitors or finally catching up on the drama series Yellowjackets. 

Also, take advantage of this remaining free time by planning to return to school. Get out the old backpacks, notebooks, and school supplies. Try reusing last year’s school supplies as much as possible. Even notebooks that aren’t filled up can be reused. These last few days of summer should be about getting in all those last-minute memories and doing what you can to prepare for getting back to school.

Summer Activities for Central

Summer is sadly winding down Central residents. Now that the warm weather and the longer days are coming to an end, it’s time to squeeze in some last-minute activities to keep busy and entertained. 

With the sun constantly shining, everyone has a little extra pep in their step. We all want some extra special things to do this season. Throw on a cute outfit, get out in the sun, and have some fun in Silver Spring, MD. 

A few lively outdoor activities include having a picnic, going to a parade, making tye-dye clothes, watching a game, or taking a hike. While spending time outside this season, bring out your inner kid and have a ball! Run through sprinklers, go down a slip ‘n’ slide, ride ferris wheels and roller coasters, or have a water balloon fight. Take advantage of the great outdoors by taking your workouts outside! Go for a relaxing stroll, an intense run, or meditative yoga. 

Or maybe you prefer some relaxation. Of course, going to the beach and sunbathing, reading, or listening to music is always a good idea. If you can’t get to a beach then star-gazing, spa days, wine tasting, or even going tech-free for a day can all be incredibly relaxing! 

Decadent Summer Desserts

Who’s ready to beat the heat? Don’t get us wrong we are loving the July summer weather! However, a cool refreshing treat can be just what you need right now. Using your state-of-the-art kitchen here at Central, check out these delicious treats to make all summer long-  maybe even all year long! 

Lemon Bars are always a great dessert for summer, as lemons are in season all summer long. With bright bursts of lemon, buttery sweetness, and crispy crust, these easy lemon bars will be irresistible.

Ice Cream Sandwiches can be customized and will be a delicious dessert. Make your own cookies or get them from the store. Take two cookies, put a scoop of ice cream in the middle, and maybe even roll it in sprinkles. 

Dirt Dessert may not sound appetizing, but you will soon fall in love with it. With ingredients like Oreos, cheesecake filling, and gummy worms- there’s no way to go wrong.

Peanut Butter Icebox Cake is a no-bake dessert, meaning it is ideal for rising temperatures with no need to heat your oven. With a prep time of less than 15 fifteen, you might be making icebox cakes for the reason of the season. 

Remember, if you don’t feel like making anything from scratch, an ice cream sundae bar will be just the thing you need!

Celebrating Father’s Day at Central

After celebrating Mother’s Day in May, now is the time to pay the same respect to our paternal figures. To no surprise, Father’s Day is dedicated to honoring fatherhood and paternal bonds, respecting fathers and all father figures. 

Especially in the United States, but worldwide, Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June. The holiday was founded in the state of Washington by Sonora Smart Dodd in 1910. Dodd was inspired while listening to a sermon about Mother’s Day in 1909. She wanted to pay tribute to her father. A civil war veteran who raised six children alone after their mother passed in childbirth. Eventually, Father’s Day became a national holiday to be celebrated every third Sunday of June in 1972. 

The best way to celebrate your Father this June is to plan a day around his favorite things and activities. If he loves being outside, plan a day of hiking, games, and a family picnic. If Dad loves to learn, go to a museum, take an ancestry test, or try an online cooking class. Or if your father loves unwinding and relaxing, make him breakfast in bed, go to the movies, and play video games together. 

From your dad, grandfather, uncle, mentor, or whoever you are celebrating this June; make this Father’s Day one to remember while here at Central!

The History of Mother’s Day and How to Celebrate at Central

With over 100 countries celebrating, including here in Silver Spring, MD, Sunday, May 14th will be the celebration of Mother’s Day in 2023. A special day dedicated to celebrating mothers and maternal figures, and their influence and impact on society and family. 

Mother’s Day was first celebrated in 1908, founded by Anna Marie Jarvis in the United States. The start of Mother’s Day as we know it now was actually started by Anna Jarvis’ mother, Ann Jarvis. Ann Jarvis started a Mother’s Day Work Club to teach local women how to care for their children. 

In 1868 she organized a committee for Mother's Friendship Day: a day for mothers to gather with former Union and Confederate soldiers to promote reconciliation. Ann Jarvis wanted it to be an annual memorial for mothers however, she died in 1905 before the annual celebrations actually were established. 

By 1912 Mother’s Day would be celebrated annually in many states and towns and in 1914 President Wilson signed a measure that established Mother’s Day as an official annual celebration on the second Sunday of May. 

Later in life, Anna Jarvis did not appreciate the commercialization of Mother’s Day. This year, celebrate Mother’s Day the old-fashioned way at Central. You don’t need flowers and fancy dinners to show appreciation for your Mom this year. Create homemade cards, make her breakfast in bed, or do some extra chores around the house, for example. Figure out the best ways to celebrate your Mother at no cost this year. 

Ready for Spring at Central

Spring has sprung! That’s right Central residents, between spring cleaning, Earth Day, and the warmer weather there is a ton to do this April at Central. 

Whether you’re excited or dreading spring cleaning, the time is finally here. Not only will a clean and organized space look great, but it will also improve moods, decrease stress levels, and increase creativity. It is the ideal time to put away winter essentials and prepare your space for the warm weather. 

“Invest in our planet.” That is the theme for Earth Day 2023. This year, there are six main focuses for 2023 Earth Month, which you can discover here. We encourage all of our residents to participate in Earth Day in as many ways as possible. Also, Central urges our community to continue their Earth Day activities all year long. 

With the arrival of Spring, it is also the perfect time to start taking your workouts outside. Spending time in nature and getting some fresh air and sunshine, can be a great way to boost your mood and get some exercise. At Central, we encourage our residents to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings and enjoy a variety of outdoor workouts. 

Get into a great mood this April and enjoy the brand-new spring season! 

Get Outside and Enjoy Silver Spring, MD

With the arrival of Spring, it's the perfect time to start taking your workouts outside. Spending time in nature and getting some fresh air and sunshine, can be a great way to boost your mood and get some exercise. At Central, we encourage our residents to take advantage of the beautiful surroundings and enjoy a variety of outdoor workouts. Here are a few outdoor activities you might want to try:

Walking, jogging, or running - Whether you prefer a gentle stroll or a more intense run, getting outside for a walk or jog is a great way to get your heart rate up and enjoy the fresh air.

Hiking - Take advantage of the beautiful trails and parks near our community. Hiking is a great way to explore the outdoors and get some exercise.

Biking - Hop on a bike and hit the road or bike paths for a fun and challenging workout. If you need to get your own bike, look into bike-sharing programs in the area.

Outdoor yoga - Take your yoga mat outside and enjoy a peaceful practice surrounded by nature.

Outdoor strength training - Use your own body weight or bring some equipment outside for a challenging strength training session.

Of course, if the weather doesn't cooperate, you can always head to our incredible fitness center at Central for a warm-up, cool-down stretch, or an indoor workout. Whatever your preference, we encourage our residents to stay active and make the most of the beautiful Spring weather.

Central Residents Craft Cute Valentine’s Day Presents

It’s the most romantic day of the year, Central residents! But, seriously, no pressure. 

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be the end-all-be-all of romance. It can be simply a great day to enjoy with those you love. Simply spending quality time and having fun with a loved one in our cozy community room will have you feeling the love. There are plenty of ways to show your love this Valentine’s Day.

While gifts are a traditional part of the holiday, they don’t have to be budget-breaking. Sure, places like Target overflow with adorably-themed pillows, candles, wreaths, and the works. But what could be better than creating something with your own two hands?

Make a DIY Etched Wine Glass: Surprise your sweetheart with a home-cooked meal and a personalized etched wine glass, which is actually much easier to make than it seems!

Heart-Shaped Elbow Patch: Wear your heart on your sleeve, literally. Make it yourself or for your Valentine, using an old sweater or two and scrap fabric (or even paper)!

Lipstick Art: All you need is a piece of white card stock and shades of lipstick for this fun-themed wall art.

Valentine’s Day is all about love. Spend the day in Silver Spring, MD, or cuddle inside, as long as you are surrounded by love then there’s no way to go wrong.

Lively January Events for Central Residents

Everyone here at Central is overjoyed to be stepping into a new year along with our fantastic community members. Central is proud and lucky to be so close to the fantastic Washington DC community, where there is always something to do. Yes, even in the cold of the winter, there are plenty of fun events and things to do- there’s no need to stay inside all month long! 

Every Friday at the Cafe Saint-Ex is the Friday Funnies Showcase. Every Friday at 8 pm, check out the excellent line-up from the top comedians in the DMV area. Enjoy an hour of gliding on the ice with tickets for Ice Skating at Cameron Run!

On the 21st- Drink the District, a wine bonanza with a wide array of wines to sample. 

The next day you can participate in a Goat Yoga Pajama Party. The following weekend is just as fun-filled! Saturday, the 28th hosts a Lunar New Year Celebration at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. 

Finally, Sunday the 29th, an event for the kiddos- a Grand Princess Show and Character Experience. Twirl on stage, watch the performance and meet your favorite characters. 

There never has to be a dull day left in January!

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Winter Holidays

The chilly winter month of December is filled with celebrations, parties, and holidays all around the world. Some are filled with solemn traditions while others focus on fun and frolic. 

Hanukkah: While the exact dates change every year, this is an eight-day Jewish holiday. Those who celebrate light a special candle holder called a menorah. They do this to remember an ancient miracle in which one day’s worth of oil burned for eight. 

Winter Solstice: This year the winter solstice takes place on December 21st, which will be the shortest day of 2022. People all over the world celebrate with festivals and celebrations. 

Christmas: This Christian holiday is celebrated annually on December 25th. In the US the holiday centers around spending time with family and exchanging gifts. Festivities in Ireland tend to be more religious, and celebrations last until the 6th of January. 

Kwanzaa: A holiday based on ancient African harvest festivals which celebrate the ideals of family life and unity. Celebrated from December 26th through January 1st. 

No matter what holiday, or holidays, you celebrate, we wish you a very happy, healthy, safe, relaxing, and fun holiday season! Happy holidays!