snick-eakers

In one month we appreciated LPNs and Physical Therapy. The residents made treat bags with medical hats for the "Loving Phenomenal Nurses" and laced up Snickers for the step in the right direction rehab personnel.

Paint and Sip

One of my activities professionals is an artist. Now that he has joined our team, we can host monthly paint and sips. Residents have a beverage of choice, a small canvas, and an instructor to guide them through. They have been pleasantly surprised with the results of their art.

Birthday Bears

A local Church donated hand-sewn bears for our use. I thought they were sweet enough to give residents on their birthday. So far, the birthday boys and girls have seemed to appreciate the soft little gifts.

Friends Giving

After the feast for Thanksgiving lunch, many  residents went off to visit with family members.

For those who didn't have that option, I hosted a Friendsgiving social. Local children donated placemats they made in class. We had various cranberry juices and mini-cupcakes.

In the center of our table was the tree with notes of things people were thankful for. We read them off, added new ones, and talked about Thanksgiving Day trivia.

leaf shaped thankful notes

Be a Turkey

November was a month to celebrate our business office. So, residents donned gloves and made reese pieces filled Turkey gifts to say thanks to all those behind the scenes workers.

Pinata Therapy

As we continue to honor different employees each month, we celebrated Rehab with a fitting physical activity: a hand made leaf pinata cut and decorated by the residents. We did this on the first day of Autumn. One resident volunteer, who has limited use of her left hand, was able to pull leaves off a garland to come spilling out when the pinata was finally cracked. The rehab employees took turns and the resident spectators cheered when candy and thank you cards were finally unleashed.

The Bread and Butter of Assisted Living

I told the women sitting around the table, all of whom were at least in their 80's, that I was going to teach them about making butter. They didn't believe me.

With a few tablespoons of heavy cream, souffle cups, and 5 minutes of arm exercise, I surprised them.

While we shook, the smell of fresh baked bread kneaded the air. The residents had each added one of the ingredients for the loaf.

After the bread machine beeped we swiped creamy fresh butter on hot slices and took big bites.

Visiting children played on the floor with building blocks. The residents speculated on when the youngest would learn to walk.

It was a great day in Assisted Living.