Best Senior Living in Woodbridge, VA

My Experience with Shikera – By Teresa Alexander I’ve been at Arbor Terrace long enough to know that a good meal isn’t just about the food—it’s about the people, the little moments of kindness, the feeling that you belong. And if there’s one person who makes sure we all feel that way, it’s Shikera. I remember one evening when I just wasn’t myself. I wasn’t hungry, and the lively chatter around me felt distant. I must have been pushing my food around my plate for a while because, before I knew it, Shikera was right there beside me. She pulled up a chair, placed a gentle hand on mine, and asked, “Ms. Teresa, what’s on your mind?” At first, I brushed it off, not wanting to be a bother. But the way she looked at me—kind, patient, like she really wanted to know—I couldn’t help but open up. I told her I was feeling a little lonely that day, missing my family more than usual. She didn’t rush me. She didn’t try to fix it with empty words. She just listened. And then, with that warm smile of hers, she said, “You are never alone here. We are your family, too.” A few minutes later, one of the servers brought me a bowl of my favorite soup and a cup of tea, just the way I like it. I hadn’t asked for it—I didn’t have to. That’s just how Shikera is. She had also rearranged the seating a little, making sure I was next to a few friends who always lift my spirits. By the time dessert came around, I was laughing again, my heart a little lighter. That’s the thing about Shikera. She doesn’t just run the dining room—she fills it with warmth. She knows every single one of us by name, remembers what we like, and notices when something isn’t quite right. She keeps the dining room running like clockwork, but more importantly, she makes it feel like home. I’ve seen her handle the busiest mealtimes without breaking a sweat, making sure everything is just so—tables set perfectly, meals served promptly, and not a single water glass left unfilled. But no matter how hectic it gets,gets; she never loses sight of what truly matters: the people sitting at those tables. She leads with kindness, teaching her staff to do the same. She sets high standards, not by demanding, but by showing them what care really looks like. And when a problem comes up, she doesn’t panic—she solves it, calmly and efficiently, making sure we never have to worry about a thing. For me, and for so many others, Shikera isn’t just a manager. She’s a light, a comfort, a steady presence in our lives. And in this placeplace, we call home, that means everything. I thank God every day for placing someone like Shikera in my life. Her kindness, patience, and unwavering dedication have made a difference not just in the dining room, but in my heart. In a world that can sometimes feel lonely, she is a reminder that love, and care still exist in the smallest moments—a warm smile, a listening ear, a simple act of kindness. Shikera, you are a blessing to all of us at Arbor Terrace. Thank you for everything you do, for the love you give so freely, and for making this place truly feel like home. I am forever grateful for you.