During the month Mahi, Activities co-ordinator had our residents making Christmas decorations and thank you cards for our Volunteers ‘thank you’ morning tea. Each volunteer received a gift and even Michael’s dog, Sam received a gift! Three of the residents read out appreciation poems and verses to the volunteers. We had a van trip to see the Christmas lights one evening and on the 4th December, 40 children from Te Kowhai School came to entertain us with Christmas music and carols. The place was abuzz and afterwards they were treated with delicious goodies and cupcakes, made and decorated by our residents. On another occasion residents were taken out for coffee and Christmas shopping to Te Awa The Base in Te Rapa. George, one of our entertainers came in to sing and play Christmas music on his guitar for the residents on the 22nd. Charlie another one of our entertainers came in on 28th to entertain us. Families are always welcome to join us on these occasions.
Residents had a wonderful Christmas lunch, joined by some family members with Christmas gifts given out to all. During the month of December, family members brought in thank you gifts of chocolates and biscuits for staff to share and enjoy in appreciation for caring for their loved ones. This was a wonderful gesture.
We had two resident birthdays and two staff birthdays in December which we celebrated. Our Nurse Manager, Shameema arranged a BBQ for staff on the 20th and staff were treated again on the 21st to a dinner in town by the owners.
Once a month we have a cooked breakfast for our residents, they also love our fish and chips Friday lunch which is followed by an ice cream cone. Garden walks are a popular choice especially on the wonderful warm days we have had.