While the calendar said spring, no one had informed the daffodils or crocuses. No matter, Decatur House residents have been busy getting ready for warmer days: starting seeds for the flower boxes, discussing an herb garden, and sharing memories.
March is a month of contrasts, most notably the weather, but also the festivities. For the start of Lent, ever faithful Bro Mike from Corpus Christi performed the distribution of the Holy Ashes. In what has become somewhat of a tradition at Decatur House, owner Colleen Dow, brought a troupe of students from the Kanaley School of Irish Dance to entertain (see photo above). Residents were delighted and energized.
Green beer and cupcakes were served to celebrate St. Paddy’s at the social hour (see photo of Anita above). Thumbs down on the beer, but the Name That Tune sing-along was a unanimous hit. Lunch out at Seafood Sams was another tried and true favorite. Fried lobster, onion rings, and shrimp scampi were popular choices and had everyone agreeing they would need to come back soon.
Leonie Little-Lex returned to lead her popular painting event and Mary Shea (the artist responsible for the activity room mural) agreed to lead a highly requested watercolor class. One Decatur House artist (Clare L.) enjoyed the classes so much, she set up a miniature “studio” in her apartment! Jewelry lovers created beautiful necklaces and bracelets with our generous volunteer, Joyce Frye (see photo of Francine beading above). And fitness lovers exercised their chai with volunteer Tai Chi instructor, Donna Klucevsek of Feisty Lion Martial Arts. Thank you, Joyce and Donna. You are both part of what makes Decatur House so special.
Some highlights last month are: Foodie Fun with Cynthia; the empanada making was fun and delicious. Susan Nolan brought healing energies with Reiki. Of course, music brings its own kind of healing; Matt York brought it “Johnny Cash style.” And birthdays are always a highlight; this month, we celebrated Tom G., Lourana T., and Jeff C. Additionally, Wii Bowling made a challenging, new, and surprisingly fun introduction.
Whether gardening, painting, or even playing video games, at Decatur House living, means learning, growing, and having fun.
