NIAGARA, Wis. — My husband and I recently returned from a trip to Chicago and its “burbs” so we could attend my niece’s wedding. It was a mixed bag — as truth be told most family get togethers tend to be — but one I would not have missed for the world. After five days in this most different environment, I was so happy to get back home to my familiar surroundings. It reminded me of my need for quiet and also of a book by that same name written by Susan Cain.

My brother lives in Libertyville, a northern suburb of Chicago, and my sister lives an hour outside of Los Angeles. While neither of them lives right in the city, they are no strangers to city life. My brother has two daughters, and it was the youngest one’s wedding which we attended. Alyssa was raised in suburbia, but has lived and worked right in Chicago since she graduated from college. She has thrived there. Her husband, Akeem, was born and raised in Evanston — also a big city boy. Many of his relatives still live in Belize. So, my husband and I were really in the minority — small town folks among big city dwellers. I was very appreciative of the fact that my siblings knew their way around this environment; for me, it felt like I was in a foreign country or some planet far removed from the earth to which I was accustomed.

Thankfully, the trip down on a Wednesday saw very little traffic. We were able to drive right through Milwaukee without any trouble and experienced no difficulties on the stretch of freeway that took us through Racine and Kenosha to the Illinois border. A half hour beyond that border, we had arrived at my brother’s doorstep. That evening was spent settling in and catching up while enjoying a lovely dinner at Dover Straits; a restaurant not too far from his house specializing in wonderful seafood.

The following day, however, was a different story. My brother had rented a limo to drive us from Libertyville to the Kimpton Gray Hotel, where the wedding festivities would be taking place on Friday. The limo arrived promptly at 3 o’clock and off we … flew! Once that driver hit the expressway, I thought the vehicle had sprouted wings! I was sitting sideways and watched out the windows as the other cars – including semi-trucks – seemed as though they were standing still. Before too long, we hit the rush hour traffic of Chicago proper which added an additional 30 minutes onto the trip, and totally frazzled my nerves.

I stepped out of that limo into a world of gray concrete, a noise level that assaulted my senses, and way too much humanity in one place. A friendly bellman was on hand to help us into the hotel with our luggage. I was greeted by marble floors and stairways and a row of elevators that was simply mind boggling. For me, our two-day stay in the city was a blur and enough of a sensory-blowing experience to last the rest of my life. Everything was fast, loud and crowded. I thought the limo ride was nerve wracking until I experienced a taxi and an uber; I just closed my eyes and held my breath!

I was the only one of our group who was so rattled. My husband understood, but my siblings were very surprised and “blamed” my response onto the fact that I was desensitized by living in a rural area and seeing nothing but trees and deer. My brother could manage it, but like a true suburbanite, remained ever watchful of any perceived threat to our safety. My sister was completely energized by the entire experience. For a moment, I envied her. She was completely comfortable and enjoyed the city; at one point she even thought it would be exciting to rent a townhome along the river for a year in her retirement so she would be able to experience the city every day!

As I marveled at how different our reactions were to the same experience, I remembered a very good book I had read years ago. Titled “Quiet,” author Susan Cain explains the very real differences between introverts and extroverts. Not content to simply list the obvious differences with which most of us are already familiar, she researched the brains of each personality type to explain why we are the way we are. Then, she goes a step further and describes how the world needs both personality types. It makes for a fascinating read and provides many eye-opening revelations.

It seems that much of the introvert/extrovert personality is determined at birth; it depends upon the amygdala. Located deep within the limbic system, the amygdala is an ancient brain found even in primitive animals. This network, sometimes called the emotional brain, underlies many of the basic instincts humans share with these animals, such as appetite, sex drive and fear. The amygdala is the brain’s emotional switchboard as it receives information from the senses and then signals the rest of the brain and nervous system to respond. One of its functions is to instantly detect threatening things in the environment and send rapid signals through the body to trigger the fight-or-flight response.

It has been found that babies born with an especially excitable amygdala react strongly to outside stimuli — such as loud noises, new sights, and strange smells — making them highly sensitive to their environments. Physical changes include an increase in heart rate, dilation of the eyes, tightening of the vocal cords, an elevated cortisol (stress hormone) release, and a “jangled” feeling when faced with new situations. These high reactive babies grow up to become introverts — individuals who process more deeply the information they take in about the world around them. They are overly sensitive to their environments and need to retreat to a calmer and quieter space. Cain also compared them to orchids — flowers that wilt easily but, under the right conditions, can thrive.

In today’s column, I have only scratched the surface of the wealth of information contained within Cain’s book. The central message of this book, and the reason for Cain having written it, is to explain the value of introverts in a world that prefers, and gravitates toward, the extroverted personality. If this has piqued your curiosity, I strongly recommend reading the entire book.

It took many years for me to become comfortable in my own skin as an introvert. After reading this book, not only am I comfortable but I now better understand how to thrive. I am one of the many introverted “orchids” who love the stillness of our northern forests, a long leisurely drive on a rural road completely devoid of traffic, the bracing smell of a cold December morning, and miles of open land interrupted only by an occasional tree. None of these moments are possible in an urban environment… I am so glad to be home!

——

NURSING HOMES/SENIOR LIVING FACILITIES

Freeman Nursing and Rehabilitation Community

Kingsford

906-774-1530

Freeman’s has resumed small group activities. Visitation is currently being allowed twice weekly with screening and COVID-19 testing required before entering the building. All precautions are still being taken to protect residents. Everyone has adjusted to this new normal; however, they are all looking forward to a great get-together when it is safe to do so.

Iron County Medical Care Facility

906-874-1501

No information currently available.

ProMedica (formerly ManorCare)

Kingsford

906-774-4805

Limited visitation has resumed for family and friends. Appointments must be made in advance by calling the center.

Maryhill Manor

Niagara, Wis.

715-251-3172

Church services are held five days each week. Note that scheduled visits are held in the front living room or outdoors and are by appointment only. Daily scheduled activities continue to be for residents only.

Sunday: Rosary, 8:30 a.m.; Catholic Mass, 9 a.m.; coffee and “Jeopardy,” 10:15 a.m.; tail gate party, Packers vs. Vikings, 2 p.m.; Protestant service, 2:30 p.m.

Monday: Rosary/communion, 8:30 a.m.; Scattegories, 10:15 a.m.; pamper and polish, 2 p.m.

Tuesday: Rosary/communion, 8:30 a.m.; coffee and book club, 10:15 a.m.; deer hunting – wear your orange, 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Rosary/communion, 8:30; kick ball, 10:15; monthly birthday social, 2 p.m.

Thursday: Rosary/communion, 8:30 a.m.; balloon darts, 10:15 a.m.; movie and popcorn, 2 p.m.

Friday: Bowling, 10:15 a.m.; happy hour – entertainment with Jim D., 2 p.m.

Saturday: Spelling bee, 10:15 a.m.; Netflix movie and popcorn, 2 p.m.

Golden Living Center

Florence, Wis.

715-528-4833

Visitation is allowed in designated areas only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Each visit is limited to 30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. All visitors will be subject to health screening before entering the facility. Residents have resumed some small group activities.

Victorian Pines

Iron Mountain

906-774-5158

Sunday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; Packers vs. Vikings, noon; Bible study, 1:30 p.m.

Monday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Tuesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; Pictionary, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Wednesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Thursday: Happy Thanksgiving.

Friday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; refreshments, 3 p.m.

Saturday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; movie and popcorn, 2 p.m.

Pinecrest Medical Care Facility

Powers

906-497-5244

Sunday: Mass (channel 66.1), 11 a.m.; life stories, 2 p.m.

Monday: Resident Council, 10:30 a.m.; crafts, 2 p.m.; karaoke, 3:30 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 6 p.m.

Tuesday: Bingo, 10:30 a.m. and 1:45 p.m.; cards, 3:30 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 6 p.m.

Wednesday: Baking group, 10:30 a.m.; crafts, 2 p.m.; sorry, 3:30 p.m.

Thursday: Bingo, 10 a.m. and 1:45 p.m.; cards, 3:30 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 6 p.m.

Friday: Shopping, 10:30 a.m.; rosary (channel 66.1), 2:30 p.m.; games, 3:30 p.m.

Saturday: Bingo, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.; room visits, 3:30 p.m.

SENIOR CENTERS

Alpha-Mastodon Center

906-875-3315

Amasa Center

906-822-7284

Now open for dine-in eating — serving at 11:30 a.m. Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Spaghetti, green beans, garlic bread and lettuce salad.

Wednesday: Poor man’s lobster, oven browned potatoes, peas and coleslaw.

Thursday: Closed — Happy Thanksgiving.

Note: All meals include milk, bread and butter, fruit and dessert.

Breen Center

Kingsford

906-774-5110

Now open for dine-in eating — serving at noon. Carry-out meals also are available. Menu for the week —

Monday: Sausage and sauerkraut, parslied potatoes and carrots.

Tuesday: Cheeseburger pie, fried potatoes and green beans.

Wednesday: Baked chicken, mashed potatoes and California blend vegetables.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

Friday: Closed.

Note: All meals served with a choice of skim milk or juice and fruit.

Crystal Falls Center

Head cook: Lucy Korhonen

906-875-6709

The center is now open and is once again serving meals for dine in or take out – call the center by 1 p.m. to make reservations or to place your order. All food is purchased from local vendors. All dinners include salad bar, homemade desserts, coffee, tea, or milk. Salad bar begins at 4:30 p.m. and dinner is served at 5 p.m. Pick up for takeout meals is 4 p.m., call ahead and leave a message with your phone number. A volunteer will deliver meals to homebound citizens only. Menu for the week –

Tuesday: Cook’s surprise, vegetables, salad bar and homemade dessert.

Wednesday: Baked chicken legs with rice, vegetables, salad bar and homemade dessert.

Crystal Lake Center

Iron Mountain

906-774-2256, ext. 230 or 235.

Home-delivered meals only — call to make arrangements. Menu for the week —

Monday: Lemon pepper fish, asparagus, egg noodles and fresh fruit.

Tuesday: Stuffed green peppers, carrots, spiced applesauce and dinner roll.

Wednesday: Brats with bun, potato wedges, cream corn, ketchup and mustard.

Thursday: Turkey and gravy, stuffing, cranberries and pumpkin bars.

Friday: Ham and cheese sandwich, coleslaw, carrots and ranch dressing and chips.

Note: All meals include a choice of skim milk, juice, or no beverage.

For more information, call Christine McMahon at 906-774-2256

Felch Center

906-246-3559

Now open for dine-in eating — call for serving times. Carryout meals also are available. Menu for the week —

Monday: Italian pork bake, breadsticks and carrots.

Tuesday: Chicken stuffing wrap, salad and potato chips.

Wednesday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy and mixed vegetables.

Note: All meals served with skim milk or juice.

Aging and Disability Resource Center of Florence County, Wis.

715-528-4890

Director: Tiffany White

Restrictions have lifted at some centers. Menu for the week —

Monday: Chef’s salad, whole wheat rolls, cottage cheese and fruit.

Tuesday: Ham and potato soup, corn bread, cucumbers in sour cream and fruit.

Wednesday: Cheeseburger, sweet potato fries, broccoli salad and fruit.

Thursday: Centers closed – Happy Thanksgiving.

Friday: Centers closed.

Note: All meals served with whole grain bread, butter and milk.

Fence Center/Town Hall

715-336-2980 –RSVP for meal at 855-528-2372

Same as ADRC menu, served at noon on Wednesday only.

Florence Community Center/Town Hall

RSVP for meal at 715-528-4261

Same as ADRC menu. Now open — serving at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday.

Tipler Town Hall

715-674-2320 — RSVP for meals.

Same as ADRC menu, served at noon on second Thursday only.

Hillcrest Senior Dining Center, Aurora

715-589-4491 — RSVP for meals

Same as ADRC menu. Now open — serving at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday.

Hermansville Center

Coordinator: Pam Haluska

906-498-7735

Iron River Center

906-265-6134

Now open for dine-in eating — serving at 11 a.m. Carryout meals also available. Menu for the week —

Monday: Sloppy Joes, potato wedges, green beans, fruit and milk.

Tuesday: Pork stir fry, rice, egg roll / dumpling, fruit and milk.

Wednesday: Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce, pie and milk.

Thursday: Thanksgiving – Closed in house – Ham and cheese on bun, chips, apples and milk.

Norway Center

Director: Michelle DeSimone

906-563-8716

Now open for dine-in eating served restaurant style beginning at 11:15 a.m. Salad bar available from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Take out meals will remain available for pick-up from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Menu for the week —

Monday: Baked chicken breast, squash and tater tots.

Tuesday: Thanksgiving Dinner – Turkey, green beans casserole, sweet potato, dressing and pumpkin pie.

Wednesday: Fish patty on a bun, fries, peas and carrots.

Thursday: Center closed – Happy Thanksgiving.

All meals include milk, juice, fruit, bread and dessert.

Sagola Center

906-542-3273

Now open for dine-in eating — call for serving times. Carry-out meals also available. Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Chicken noodle soup, grilled cheese sandwiches and applesauce.

Wednesday: Turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, dinner roll, green bean casserole and mixed fruit.

Thursday: Center closed – home meal delivery only – sweet and sour pork, rice, stir fry vegetables and pineapple.

All meals served with an option of milk, juice or no beverage.