Marion Manor: Alpacas popular
By AUTUMN HANSON
Marion Manor reporter
The week started out uneventfully, but as time passed, it really picked up. We had the usual favorites — fun and games, baking, etc.
We had guest Bingo callers on Wednesday. I was out of the facility taking a resident to an appointment so I found someone to call Bingo — my son Riley and his stepbrother Jake. Residents seemed to enjoy the young men.
During the week, we also had a young lady volunteer. Danielle, who was visiting her grandparents, came by to volunteer her time. Residents really enjoy the young volunteers, and I enjoy having the help. Anyone who would like to volunteer can contact me at the Manor by calling 382-2191.
We celebrated the birthday of Donald Duck on Monday. This plucky senior duck was 69 this year. We had cupcakes and punch in the dining room and talked about our favorite cartoon characters.
Thursday found several of us in the dining room for popcorn and a movie. We watched the classic "Little Women." Most had forgotten how good a movie it was.
The best of the week was an unexpected visit from Christi and her Alpacas. They were going for a check up at the vet's and Christi decided it would be fun to bring them to visit the residents. Mother and baby strolled in the front door and won the hearts of all who saw them. They have large brown eyes, long lashes, and the softest fur. Christi explained that Alpacas are much more "polite" than Lamas — they don't spit!
We had a special Friday the 13th game in the dining room, filling in the blanks with Friday the 13th lucky phrases. We talked about favorite good luck charms. Most had rabbits' feet for luck (that wasn't luck for the rabbits), some had pennies, and one had a special ring that was worn for luck. Those who are superstitious can relax, as this is the only Friday the 13th this year.
We went to the library on Friday as well. Residents enjoyed looking at the books and the beautiful library. The center of attention however was a baby visiting at the library. Her mother told us it was the birthday of the beautiful little girl, Trinity. We all enjoy children very much.
This week we are celebrating National Nursing Assistant's Week. The celebration began on the 12th and runs until the 19th. Having such a great home would not be possible without the wonderful CNAs and Med Aids. It takes a special sort of person to work here. It is like we have one big family. Many of the staff are considered by residents to be like a second family. Our thanks to all of them even though they are only recognized once a year by a special week, we know that residents appreciate them all year 'round.
