Cornwall Manor Resident’s Love for Coloring Brings Joy Across Generations

Cornwall Manor Resident’s Love for Coloring Brings Joy Across Generations

Rhoda Kilmer, at the remarkable age of 97, has lived a life deeply rooted in family, farming and home. Born on a farm, she married a farmer and dedicated her life to working the land and raising her family. Rhoda and her husband John managed their family farm in Manheim for 70 years, where they engaged in dairy farming, grew crops to feed their livestock, maintained a full garden and even cultivated tobacco.

Rhoda and John were blessed with four children. Their daughter Mary Ann, along with her husband Tom, resides in Hummelstown. Mary Ann embarked on a missionary journey to Kenya right after high school. Their daughter Joyce, who has since passed away, married David, a minister. Their son Donald, along with his wife Karen, served as missionaries in South Africa for 30 years and now reside there. Their son Nelson, married to Melissa, lives in Manheim. Rhoda’s family has grown to include seven grandchildren and nineteen great-grandchildren.

In October 2015, John and Rhoda moved to Cornwall Manor, settling into a two-bedroom apartment in the Carriage House. They continued to lead active lives at Cornwall Manor taking advantage of meeting new neighbors and becoming immersed in the activities until John transitioned to the Health Center, where he eventually passed. A short time later, Rhoda, noticing changes in her own health, chose to move to the Health Center as well, wanting to remain strong for her children.

Rhoda embraced the activities at the Health Center, feeling a strong sense of participation and community. She was introduced to artistry by Sara, the Activities Assistant, who invited residents to a “coloring day.” The completed pictures were displayed for residents, staff, family members and visitors to enjoy and vote on, with prizes awarded for the best entries. The coloring contest, which began in spring 2024, used a template of an ear of corn, an image familiar to Rhoda from her farming days. She found joy in bringing the image to life with vibrant colors, reflecting God’s creation and beauty.

Rhoda’s decision to move to the Health Center has been a blessing in her life. Reflecting on her journey, she shares, “I am well and content,” expressing her deep gratitude to God for guiding her to a place where she feels truly cared for and supported. The Health Center has provided her with everything she needs, from medical care to activities, ensuring her well-being in every aspect.

Having spent the majority of her life immersed in the demanding and active world of farming, Rhoda acknowledges that her move to the Health Center marked a significant transition. The relentless pace of farm life, with its early mornings and physically intensive tasks, had defined her daily routine for decades. However, this new chapter has gently encouraged her to slow down, offering her the opportunity to savor the smaller joys of life.

At the Health Center, Rhoda has found a renewed sense of peace and contentment. The slower pace has allowed her to appreciate the beauty in everyday moments, from the simple pleasure of a morning cup of tea, to walking to the dining room for meals, to the joy of engaging in creative activities like coloring. She has discovered a new rhythm, one that balances rest with meaningful engagement and has embraced the chance to connect more deeply with her surroundings and the people around her.

Rhoda’s gratitude extends beyond the physical comforts of the Health Center. She is thankful for the emotional and spiritual support she receives, which has been instrumental in her adjustment to this new phase of life. The dedicated staff and the sense of community have made her feel valued and cherished, reinforcing her belief that she is exactly where she is meant to be. This environment has not only catered to her needs but has also enriched her life, allowing her to continue growing and finding joy in unexpected places.

Her love for coloring has continued to grow, catching the attention of many. She has won additional coloring books from contests and her room is now filled with an array of coloring books, colored pencils and her laptop, which she uses to keep in touch with her family. Before Christmas, Rhoda colored 45 pages for her family’s gathering, spreading her masterpieces on the tables for everyone to choose a keepsake. Her artwork, cherished by her family in Lancaster and Lebanon counties, also reaches across the globe to her son Donald and daughter-in-law Karen in Africa.

Rhoda’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of creativity and the enduring bonds of family. Through her coloring, she has found a way to bridge distances and share her love with those who matter most. Her colorful creations have brought joy to many, making her newly discovered hobby a source of happiness for all.