Jazzy November

There might be nothing that goes so well with cool, crisp November weather like live jazz music. It was cool, smooth, and had our residents enchanted Sunday afternoon. The young ensemble, Temple Avenue, turned our living room into as close to a beatnik coffee house as it was ever going to get. They played a variety of arrangements of classic pieces from jazz's finest composers, such as Miles Davis and Clifford Brown. The group, featuring saxophonist Seth Ebersole, bassist Jack Synoski, drummer Austin Wagner, and pianist Colin Mekeel filled our living room with energy, warmth, and full-bodied music that we stick with us all winter long.

Celebrate Little Things: December Events

This month is all about celebrations! Not only will we be celebrating holidays such as Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and New Year’s Eve, but we will also celebrate the little things that make life worthwhile. Little things such as the reassuring touch of a friend’s hand, a kind word from an acquaintance and a warm smile from a stranger.

In our all too busy lives we sometimes forget to honor the simple things in life that bring us peace and joy. Most experts recommend that we allow 10-20 minutes of relaxation and stress relief each day. Making time for that can even be a stressful experience! During this busy month of baking, shopping, visitors and juggling tasks take time to remember what is really important.

Here are some tips to keep holiday stress in check: Acknowledge your feelings - you are not alone as holiday stress is not uncommon. Be realistic with expectations - you can only do so much, learn to say no. Ask for help when needed - everyone wants to be needed and may feel more included by being able to contribute. Plan ahead to minimize unplanned expenses and tasks. Take a breather - take a walk at night and do some stargazing, listen to soothing music, or get a massage. Above all enjoy all the holidays have to offer by sharing time with others.

Our fabulous activity offerings this month include our Santa Claus is Coming to Town event as Santa along with Mrs. Claus and his trusty elves will be making a special appearance during our annual Family Christmas Party for a festive meal and delectable goodies as each resident may have up to 6 complimentary guests to join in the magic of the season on December 7^th from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm; or our 2nd Annual “Professional Jingle Mingle” a fun and festive spin on the traditional networking meeting in a social event will give you an opportunity to meet and have fun with members of Lancaster County’s Senior Outreach Services, local Chamber of Commerce members and other professionals all while sampling local wines, brews and specially selected pairings with fabulous door prizes offered and fun guaranteed on December 16^th from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm!

Look through our calendar and join us during the busy month of December for our annual cookie exchange and holiday celebrations. Take time to Celebrate Little Things with those you love!

Music and Baking

We were treated to a variety of musical performances this week, each different and wonderful for our residents. On Monday, we had Gospel Music with Jim and Wendy, which one resident described as "beautiful". In the afternoon on Wednesday, we held a Sing Along in our living room. Everyone gathered together to share songbooks and sing. Saturday, Steven Wonder entertained residents, guests, and associates with his gospel and classic tunes. 

Because Thanksgiving is fast approaching, we decided to go for an early taste of the holiday by baking Sweet Potato Delight. Gentleman and ladies alike took turns mixing the ingredients and preparing the dessert.

Budding Artists

Katie Martin, an artist with a degree from the Art Institute of York, PA, visited this week to help our residents realize their artistic potential. She connected one-on-one with each budding artist to provide guidance and direction, as well as good humor and company. The results were amazing, and our residents loved painting with her.

Katie enjoys working with seniors, but also teaches children and adults with disabilities. Katie employs singing, storytelling, movement, and positive encouragement to help her students create beautiful art and memories.

Visits From Friends Young and Young-at-Heart

This week we were delightfully entertained by the husband-and-wife musical duo, The Sweet Life. Matt and Carol Frigm treated our residents to patriotic tributes to our servicemen and women, as well as some beloved favorites and requests of our residents-- such as Patsy Kline's Crazy and a medley of Elvis hits.

On Sunday, children from Trinity Lutheran Church brought pumpkins they decorated for us. We were so thrilled to be hosting children again so soon after our Safe Trick-or-Treat, and the residents loved to visit with them.

Safe Halloween

We hosted our Safe Halloween at Juniper Village at Mount Joy and thirty children came to trick-or-treat at our residents' doors. Safe and warm in our well-lit hallways, the children had a blast-- as did our residents and associates! Trick-or-Treat was followed by a costume contest, and we awarded prizes to a variety of categories. Sweetest Costume went to a little snow queen, Elsa. Best Costume was awarded to a gypsy. A little lizard won Cutest Costume. Most Original was a bucking little buckaroo of a cowboy, and the Scariest Costume was awarded to a creepy glowing pumpkin head. The Nicest Costume title was bestowed upon a pretty little pink princess. Refreshments of caramel corn and apple cider were served, and everyone had a thoroughly wonderful and spooky night!

Pink Out!

We hosted a Pink Out! in our effort to unite in the fight against breast cancer. Residents and associates both brought out their pink for the occasion. On the opening night of the World Series, Juniper Village at Mount Joy hosted a Grand Slam Dash & Dine. Guests were invited to grab boxed lunches or dine in with us, and we even had a popcorn machine to help celebrate America's Favorite Past time.