Happy New Year!
Sparkle was in the air and in our hearts as we gathered in Lanagan Hall to ring in the New Year. Plenty of delicious food was available as we served a full meal this year instead of finger foods. A bit of eggnog, wine or a cocktail were offered for the Residents enjoyment. Glistening party hats, streamers and noise makers were picked up by the dozens as Residents enjoyed the full experience of “bringing in the New Year”!
Jeannine Hong and her talented band played upbeat music all night long. Everyone at the party was smiling and chatting. Some Residents were dancing with each other or with staff, family, friends and volunteers as our Christmas tree twinkled in the center of the room. The feeling of family and joy could not be missed!
Residents have lived rich and meaningful lives and all had meaningful experiences to share. Lots of memories and stories from past New Year’s celebrations could be heard as one moved about the room. The story sharing was building connections between the young and the old, new friends and old friends. Cross cultural information, cross generational traditions, recollections from the seniors and narratives of new adventures from the young were planting seeds of love in the hearts of all as we appreciated our similarities and honored our different familial inheritances.
We had a sparkling beverage to begin the countdown to the New Year. “Three, two, one….” and down fell the balloons from the ceiling followed by the fun of popping the all those balloons!
Many of our Residents, families and friends said this was the “best New Year’s celebration EVER!”
Looking back at 2018, we are full of gratitude. Looking forward to 2019, we are full of hope!
Happy New Year!