At The Cottages of New Lenox, gratitude is more than seasonal—it’s part of daily life. From the moment you step onto the beautifully landscaped grounds and into one of the five intimate cottages, a sense of warmth, connection, and purpose is felt. Each cottage houses just 16 residents, creating a personal, community-centered environment that feels like home rather than a large senior living facility.
“Everyone here is family—from our care team to residents and their loved ones,” shares Laykyn Blackburn, Director of Sales and Marketing. The Cottages honors each resident’s life story and legacy, fostering connection through courtyard gatherings, family events, and programs that encourage purposeful engagement.
Whether it’s a veteran celebrated in Hero Hall, a resident leading the Council, or someone helping after meals, each person has a meaningful role. Personalized care plans reflect individual histories, needs, and desires, ensuring dignity and respect.
Gratitude extends to families, who are active partners in caregiving. Monthly dementia support groups, frequent celebrations, and ongoing communication reflect the team’s commitment to holistic care for residents and their loved ones.
“We are so thankful to be trusted with the care of such special individuals,” Laykyn says. “Our mission is to enhance the human spirit, and we live that every day.”
In this spirit, I sat down with three residents to hear, in their own words, what gratitude means to them and how The Cottages has helped them find joy, connection, and purpose in this stage of life.
Caryl Schaer is grateful for a life surrounded by family, friends, and neighbors. “I thought I’d miss my house, but I don’t. I’m very happy here,” she shares, enjoying the porches, games, and companionship. She’s thankful to her nephew for finding a home that feels right. Reflecting on her 50+ year marriage, she offers simple advice: “Give things a chance. It can turn out nice.”
James “Rabbit” Hayes, from Arkansas, served three years in the Army, including two in Alaska. A proud father and grandfather, he treasures raising a good family. Known by his childhood nickname, he still chuckles that coworkers never knew his real name. Grateful for loved ones and daily routines, he shares simple advice for younger generations: “Do what my wife did—live clean. It made my health better.”
For Norma Blount, gratitude begins with family and faith. Raised in West Virginia, she fondly recalls working at her dad’s restaurant, where chili dogs with coleslaw were a favorite. After moving to Illinois with her husband, she built a life rooted in love and support. At The Cottages, she’s grateful for her son’s visits and eagerly joins activities. Her advice: “Live for the Lord. That’s always been my life.”