She could not have imagined she would find a perfect niche for herself in that senior residence, or that over the next three years she would come to be as happy as in her childhood, before fate took a hand.
-- Narrator (Chapter 1 paragraph 1)

Importance: This quote indicates that Irina would come to find happiness at Lark House but also hints at some dark secret in her past from which she had been running.

The old folks in the home were conclusive proof that age, despite all its limitations, does not stop one from having fun and taking part in the hubbub of life.
-- Narrator (Chapter 1 paragraph 34)

Importance: Although they were old, the people at Lark House were still lively and enjoyed taking part in all that life had to offer. This quote sums up the attitude of Lark House.

Alma laughed to herself when she thought how the family would react if Seth, the heir to the Belasco...
-- Narrator (Chapter 3 paragraph 20)