Day 1306

Oh, what fun!!!! Norbella Senior Living had a Christmas Party for the residents and their families this evening. It would be hard to tell who stole the show…Santa, The Grinch or Max the Dog! They all played their roles to perfection!

Santa (played by our dear friend Steve) welcomed children of all ages with kindness and a magical sense of knowing just what to say. Each encounter made the person believe.

The Grinch (played by son Jimmy) was outrageous, hysterical and believable. He had everyone laughing! All of the residents wanted an interaction with the green guy!

Max (played by Gus) was wonderful. He had a mixture of humility, shyness and a desire to please. Everyone simply wanted to touch his soft fur.

The really incredible part was, that along with these three “boys”, a host of loving staff and volunteers took great pains to make this evening beyond anyone’s expectations. Led by the indomitable Bethany, everyone combined their energy and talent to make the evening a success. By that, I mean they had one goal…to bring joy and magic to the seniors in Memory Care and Assisted Living. Their hearts led the way without any need of accolades or acknowledgment for their part in the party. All eyes were on the seniors to make sure they were happy and fulfilled. They certainly were and their smiles will be part of everyone’s best memories of the event.

When it was time to leave, we headed towards the door when The Grinch ran up and asked if we could do one more visit. Of course…so Santa, The Grinch, Max and their small entourage headed down to a beloved resident who is in Hospice. With soft words, gentle hands and a true spirit of Christmas, they visited with this sweet lady. It was a beautiful sight.

This Southern Belle is very near to my heart. I remembered our last visit when we spoke of polar bears. She told me she absolutely loves them. In amongst the stuffed animals that Santa handed out, there was one big, white teddy bear remaining. I ran back to get it and returned to place it in her arms. I told her it was her very own polar bear from Santa. The look on her face was beautiful. “I love him. He will not leave my side.”

Feeling humbled to see so many people spend their Friday night making these seniors smile was a beautiful thing. I will carry that “happy” in my heart for a long time.