Greetings from "The Home" front...

Wowsie – that was a weird little surprise Mother Nature had for us last week – 9.5” of snow - but we managed to carry on and actually enjoy the beautiful sunny days that followed. The snow looked beautiful (as long as you didn’t have to be out in it!) Again, thank you to the staff that worked extra shifts to help when others couldn’t make it in.

We have been busy here at LMH with special activities to keep our residents entertained. A BIG shout out THANK YOU goes to resident Chris Larson who conducted our church service on Friday. He did a fabulous job of reading scripture and singing. I know the residents enjoyed a chance to get out to hear a gospel message.

We did crafts on Wednesday and the residents made a springtime greeting card – just in time to mail Easter greetings to friends and family. Nancy lead a group sing with choir and name that tune while Elaine went room to room to play Easter trivia and sing that famous song “Easter Parade”. It was surprising how many residents knew all the words. We have been providing hand massages and pretty nails to residents in their rooms. Our bingo games have also been a popular activity. We practice social distancing in all of these events. The residents have been able to come into the activity room to read the paper, get activity sheets such as word search, crosswords and coloring pages. The activity staff has also been delivering these items plus magazines to our residents who prefer to stay in their rooms.

We also received two huge shopping bags full of jigsaw puzzles from a RN who saw how much the residents enjoyed them and she provided for us. I know the residents will have a great time putting them together. Thanks again.

Coming very soon to LMH will be an “in house” television hookup where residents can see and hear various activities and announcements on the TVs in their rooms. This will be especially helpful so that everyone can see and hear readings, musical activities and even watch craft demonstrations. Having TV access allows more residents to participate in activities while remaining in their rooms. We are currently waiting for a particular part which has been delayed but we hope it will be here any day and then we will be up and running. Watch for more news on this soon.

All of our residents enjoy receiving emails and cards so we encourage you to send one. It would certainly brighten their day. We have been taking pictures of the residents and then emailing them to family members as a way to keep in touch. Some of the residents have also been able to face time with friends and family. This quarantine has been a challenge but we are using creative ways to make life better for everyone.

There are no resident or Sun Center birthdays next week but we do have two staff members celebrating – Kiana Meyer on April 15 and Shelby Moore on April 16th. Happy Birthday to both of you and enjoy your special day.

Until next time … a thought for the week from A.A. Milne … you’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem and smarter than you think … Wash your hands, practice social distance and stay home if possible!