Our Colerain residents were delighted to receive an energetic Christmas visit from the toddlers and preschoolers at Waverly's Hope Day Care. Everyone devoured delicious brown bag lunches and spent the day singing familiar Christmas carols and enjoying arts and crafts together. The little ones presented residents with their own Christmas ornament creations and residents delighted in bestowing the children with gifts as well. This was such a wonderful opportunity for participating residents to recall the joys of grandparenthood, so we plan to arrange similar visits with the day care on special occasions through the upcoming year.

We ended our November with a new entertainer, saxophone player Jim McBride. The residents really enjoyed him. The room was full of smiles, and he played music that the residents could really relate too. Jim also sang some good old blues songs. Most importantly, he takes pride in what he does while getting very personal with the residents. The residents loved him so much, we booked him for 2018!

Not only do we work hard to offer residents and family members excellent service, but employee satisfaction is a priority as well. Our recent Staff Appreciation Luncheon was a great way for all of us to feel appreciated, valued and motivated. Everyone enjoyed themselves and the candy corn raffle was a hit. The actual count turned out to be 819. First place winner was Pam, our beautician. Second place was Tara, our activities director, and third place was Janet, the night shift LPN. Each received Kroger gift cards. Congrats ladies!

We recognized and saluted our wonderful veterans this month. Listening to stories they shared was not only fascinating, but also a special privilege. We'd like to thank all the volunteers involved in making our tribute a success. Crossroads Hospice as usual was an amazing help, and provided music for us. Even Channel 9 News came to cover a portion of our event. Thank you for your service veterans!

Our Halloween Affair on Oct. 31st got even better when we received a cheerful visit from the little ones at Under the Blue Sea Child Care. All decked out in their costumes, our pint-sized guests sang for us and paraded through the facility while residents enjoyed passing out candy. Everyone enjoyed the music, cupcakes and ice cream.

On Oct. 31st our facility got into full swing for Halloween. Even the therapy department got creative for the day and got everyone in good spirits.

We started off our Halloween activities this year with an enjoyable visit from Crossroads Hospice. They shared the art of pumpkin painting with us. It was a great opportunity for everyone to show their creativity. Some pumpkin art was spooky and some were all smiles, but nevertheless, it was a great reason to have some fun and get a little messy.

It's hard to believe that it's almost Halloween all ready, so the little ones at Waverly Day Care decided to stop by. They're so excited to come dressed in their costumes and our residents truly get a kick out of visiting with them. It doesn't get much cuter than this!

Each time Lucy comes for a pet therapy visit she's a hit with our residents and the benefits are two-sided. Residents enjoy the unconditional love and comfort she brings and Lucy thrives on all the attention and petting she receives. Her tail-wagging visits create lots of happiness and broad smiles. Thank you so much Lucy and Maria!

Now that the leaves are starting to slightly turn and the weather is getting a bit crisper, we're ready to usher in Fall. There's no better way to celebrate than with our most loved entertainer, Rich Monroe. Residents and guests enjoyed seasonal treats and some of their favorite tunes for our 2017 Fall Bash.