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Thank you to Susquehanna Valley Baptist Church for bringing their Junior Church Class to perform their Christmas scripture and song program for our residents. The children enjoyed popcorn treats after the program.

Our crafty residents enjoyed making yarn trees for the Holidays.

As we begin a fresh year, I encourage us all to rejoice in the fact that God is continuously working newness into our lives.  Don’t let recent disappointments and failures define you or dampen your expectations.  This is the time to make a fresh start.  Today is a precious gift that was carefully prepared for each of us with tender attention to every unique and special detail.  As it is written, “…search for signs of My loving Presence as you journey along the path of Life.  Look for the little pleasures I have strewn alongside your pathway – sometimes in surprising places – and thank Me for each one…” Jim

Many of us seek out the opportunity to step in and take control of a particular situation or event.  Whether it is leading a sports team to the World Series, running a fast-food restaurant, or even caring for an elder family member, when things are going smoothly, it’s easy to feel as if you’re in charge.  The more you perceive yourself as your own master, and the more comfortable you become in this role, the harder you will fall as it is said that storms will come, and uncertainties will loom on the horizon.  If you cling to control and feel entitled to having things go your way, you are likely to sink when difficulties surface.  I believe that we are encouraged to enjoy times of smooth sailing and to be thankful for them, but we need to be equally warned not to become addicted to this sense of mastery over your life as we are being trained to always trust in Him – for He is your Refuge.  He uses adversity to set you free from the illusion of being in control.  When your circumstances and your future are full of uncertainties, look to Him.  Therefore, we are encouraged to find your security in knowing Him, the Master who is sovereign over the storms of your life – over everything. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season. May your holidays be filled with joy and laughter through the New Year. Jim

We would like to thank Ken Swartz, a New Orleans musician, for entertaining us by playing some old-time finger picking roots music guitar blues! Ken’s dad, Bob, is a resident at the cottage and he enjoyed watching his son perform for his new friends. www.kenswartzandthepalaceofsin.com

There was a “GRAND” celebration on Grandparents Day with family photos, musical entertainment, and tasty desserts. “Surely, two of the most satisfying experiences in life must be those of being a grandchild or a grandparent.” — Donald A. Norber

“Life is too short to wear white”! We had fun tie dying some bandannas to add fun colors to our wardrobe.

We held our Open House on Tuesday, September 13 th and enjoyed a wonderful night celebrating our Linglestown Campus. The event consisted of a self-guided tour of our two model rooms, delicious food, and elegant harp music. It was wonderful to meet and converse with many different people who helped in the establishment of our new community.

Weather affects most of us in one way or another. Perhaps we feel energetic when it’s sunny and sluggish on overcast days. And no one likes being stuck in a hot car or a freezing movie theater. Alzheimer’s and dementia can affect the brain’s control centers, resulting in increased sensitivity to heat and cold. A 2018 research study followed 3,300 people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in the United States, France, and Canada. The results demonstrated that cognitive (thinking) ability changed depending on the season. It appeared to be higher in the fall and summer, when days are longer and sunnier. People experienced more episodes of sundowning (an escalation in anger, irritation, and confusion occurring late afternoon or evening) during winter and early spring. They also had more sleep-pattern disturbances and depression during shorter, darker days. Watch the Weather Heat exposure can lead to hyperthermia (elevated body temperature), headaches, nausea, dizziness, fainting, fatigue, and behavioral changes such as increased anxiety and agitation. Cold exposure can lead to hypothermia (below-average body temperature) and symptoms such as shivering, increased confusion, pallor, and lethargy. Cold and rainy weather can cause people to stay indoors, reducing opportunities for social interaction. Be on the alert for signs of isolation and depression. Take Precautions Ensure dress is appropriate for the weather. Keep indoor temperatures consistently warm or cool enough for comfort. Encourage regular activity and opportunities for social interaction. Provide opportunities for regular and adequate eating and drinking. Hydration is essential. People who tend to wander are at increased risk in the heat or cold. Additional monitoring may be indicated. Resources https://www.rusthalllodgekent.co.uk/news/seasonal-effects-of-dementia/ https://www.parcprovence.com/summer-heat-and-dementia/ https://www.liftedcare.com/too-hot-or-too-cold-managing-changing-temperatures-with-dementia/

Our residents keep busy with fun activities like cookie decorating and Bingo!

October 13 th is the Navy’s birthday, so we celebrated with our “Drunken Sailor Tattoo Parlour.” What will we do with a drunken sailor? What will we do with a drunken sailor? What will we do with a drunken sailor? Early in the morning!

Thank you for your service to our country. Your bravery, sacrifice, and strength do not go unnoticed, and we will always be indebted to you and your family for all that you have given to our country.