| Newsletter Autumn 2007 Hello how are you all? The summer that we waited so patiently for has been and gone, but it was one that was worth waiting for wasn't During the lovely weather we were able to get the gardens re-planted with native plants – 530 of them to be precise!!!! It has certainly been worth the effort, they are now starting to grow and looking really good with all the different coloured foliage and different textures and leaf shapes. I was not impressed with Spike though, he decided to help with the gardening by digging a 'few holes'. Unfortunately it was where I had already planted some desert grasses, it was very hard telling him off because he looked so pleased with himself! We celebrated Easter with our Easter Bonnet parade, most of the residents and staff got involved, there were some really amazing creations. This was followed by Mothers Day celebrations, with many bouquets of flowers being delivered. Mikes been busy with the craft group once again, producing lovely paintings, doing knitting, crochet, needle work. The residents who participate look forward to this activity. The gardening group has got the raised gardens well stocked with a multitude of flowers/plants, the courtyard is looking 'blooming' lovely. There is becoming intense rivalry with indoor bowls between Irwell and visiting teams from the Chelsea and Marsden Day Care Groups. Mike and the 'supporters' from the other team really get into the competitive spirit while these games are on. The games finish, the winning team gets congratulated, everyone becomes friends again and finish the afternoon off with a splendid afternoon tea of the homemade cakes from Eva and Susan (our Cooks). We have several of our care staff who began their National Certificate in Care of the Older Person late last year. They are getting on well with their studies, we hope to have another group started in the next month. This is a NZAQ course, recognised throughout New Zealand. The staff who are currently going through the course are finding the knowledge they are getting is very beneficial to them. Its lovely seeing the residents family members and it good being able to spend time having a chat, we appreciate all the feedback you give, a special thanks to those of you who assisted the Certification Auditors recently. Please remember to book your Respite Care as soon as you can to ensure a place for your relative. Take care now and remember to add that extra blanket to your bed !! Kindest regards Residents, Staff, Heather and John Caring for the Elderly in a Family Environment |