St. Luke Living Center correspondent
The week of Christmas every living center creature was stirring — literally — a great deal of the time. Our bakers made cinnamon rolls, pumpkin bread (from leftover baked pumpkin used to make pumpkin soup!), sugar cookies, chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, Kris Kringle cranberry cookies, and almond bark-dipped pretzels.
The afternoon of Christmas Eve, the doubled tables of our front dining room were heavy with plates of the homemade goodies. Platters of fruit, relishes, cheeses, and meats were added and our dietary department brought a silver urn of hot cider and smaller pots of hot coffee.
Residents, families, and staff members were invited to gather around our large lighted tree as we sang carols which were lead by May, Nancy, and Ashton, with our very own Lydia Batt playing the piano.
Eager living center elves began delivering the many packages found under and beside the tree. And just as eagerly we picked up a festive plat and circles the refreshment tables, perhaps more than once in order to try everything.
Christmas Day was a bit more serene. Many were with their families for meals or church services. Part of the afternoon was spent with cups of coffee, baked goods, and holiday music, reading Kansans’ favorite Christmas memories and sharing some of our own.
Fast forward to New Year’s Eve. Resident council met in the morning and invited Mary Raleigh, a member of the “Better Dining Experience” task force to share some ideas with us. After discussion, questions, and answers, Mary asked permission to try a few of the suggested changes on a trial basis. Residents then offered some ideas of their own.
Because of the early dateline, we read this week’s Marion County Record in the afternoon, learning what was on Norma’s reading agenda, who won a cash drawing 50 years ago, and those who received service awarded 25 years ago at the St. Luke Hospital annual Christmas party.
New Year’s Eve also was full of “stirrings” following morning prayer group. This time it was kolaches with Amelia’s direction and Martin’s help. While dough balls were raising the big, red machine was put into action that afternoon and sacks of freshly-popped corn were served and devoured.
The afternoon of New Year’s Day, we played our version of 20 Questions, trying to guess if the “it” was a woodpile, stocking hat, or perhaps a Salvation Army kettle — all things of winter or December. From “Ideals,” we read some poems of faith and resolution as we opened the door of a new year while also enjoying Christmas cookies and drinks.
We always reap the benefits of a thoughtful, generous community. But the Christmas season causes us to be even more aware of the goodness that permeates the hearts of individuals and spreads throughout families, organizations, businesses, schools, and churches. A sincere “thank you” for all of the acts of love and kindness we’ve experienced.