Livia’s Parent Corner highlights the kids of Arete Living employees and residents. This section is named after Livia Thompson, Senior Life Enrichment Director with Avamere at Bethany, who initiated this idea.
February’s Livia’s Parent Corner is Minerva Picard, Caregiver with Avamere at Bethany in Portland, Oregon.
When did you become a parent?
I became a mother at age 17. I feel like I had the opportunity to grow up alongside my children. I will always be young at heart.
Tell me your kids’ names and ages.
Wilson, my oldest passed away at 46. He was a proud veteran, and we miss him very much.
Ramona, my second oldest is 43.
Mary is 40 years of age.
Mikey is 38 years young.
Keith, my baby, is 32 years old.
What is one of your favorite memories as a family?
Spending time with my children and grandchildren is always the highlight of my day. We love being outdoors, especially camping and looking after our chickens, goats, and puppy dogs.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to yourself as a new mom?
I would have set aside more time with my kids while they were growing. Work is not always the most important thing. Take time to enjoy the journey with them.
What activities do your kids enjoy?
As they are grown, it is time with their children. I am the proud grandmother of nine beautiful grandkids and three great-grandkids. We are a sports-centric family. We love fishing, basketball, baseball, and hiking.
What are you most proud of about your kids?
Who they have become as adults and the parents that they are. They are kind, hardworking, and passionate about family.
Anything else to share?
My family has enjoyed multi-generational activities at Bethany. My grandkids have grown up during the last six years we have been a part of the Avamere/Arete Living family.
Editor’s note: Minerva’s kids and grandkids have been part of Avamere at Bethany through the years, as they’ve enjoyed the annual Easter egg hunts and trick-or-treat.
Feature your family in the next Livia's Parent Corner! Submit your story here (and include photos too).
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