By Laura Kadlec

Activities Director/Music Therapist

The warming weather brought smiles to many of our folks along with the singing on Monday morning. The time change, however, is so very difficult at first! Some sleepy heads joined us but motivation was missing. After some naps, folks were a bit more energetic and found their way to the dining room which was filled with the aroma of delicious, fresh popped corn. We snacked and then proceeded to play a rousing game of bowling. Shirley Klinski captured fourth place and Irene Converse was right behind her in third place. Alvin Bergmark earned second place and Frances White and Kevin Bauer shared first place honors. Supper arrived and many stayed out for bingo. Our bubbly sisters, Marie and Joyce Berger, were happy to help set up cards, chips, and deliver candy.

On Tuesday, Father Jojo and Terry Pelzel arrived for Mass and communion. We had a good time to reflect on our faith during this Lenten season. Our morning finished up with “Name That Tune”. We listened to 77 songs! Laura only gives us a few notes but we can usually guess the song title. Scores were very close. Mary Ellen Coulson had 16 answers followed by Barb Smith with 17 and Shirley Klinski with 18. Top guesser was Penny Stafford with 22 correct guesses. The crafters were in up to their elbows in paint during the afternoon, literally! But the bird houses are coming right along and are simply beautiful.

Everyone puts their own flare on their house with flowers and designs. Soon, Pastor Pau arrived from Sabylund Lutheran Church for our weekly worship service. Special thanks to Sandy Lindstrom for filling in at the piano. The high rollers played dice games after supper and Frances White was the top winner.

Wednesday’s workout crew gathered their egg shakers to shake up the dining room with some upbeat music trying to keep up. A quick game of kickball followed and soon lunch was ready. The afternoon welcomed bingo and our bingo helpers: Wanda Ebensperger and Marlene Zimmer. They were quick to set up and fast on their feet to deliver candy rewards.

Our mid-week social included a flair for the French as Stacey delivered tasty eclairs to everyone. They were a delicious treat with a hot cup of fresh coffee to perk up our afternoon.

The local news sets the tone for the morning on Thursdays.

Marlene Zimmer read to us from the Courier Wedge and the Journal before adding a few fun facts and stories for “The Old Cow Belle.” It’s always a good time of reminiscing along with the latest news around town. Manicures were offered in the afternoon and many of our ladies were in the St. Patrick’s spirit with choosing green nail polish. They really like to top it off with a coat of sparkles for a party effect! The afternoon was complete with bean bags. Winners were: Fourth place: Frances White; third place, Alvin Bergmark; second place, Kevin Bauer; first place champ, Shirley Klinski. The evening finished off a great day with a fun game of pokeno.

Drummers welcomed Friday and all who dared enter our building. I’m sure the neighbors must be able to hear our noise!

But we are having a blast playing to so many favorites. Our afternoon began with mail delivery, quickly followed by the snack makers who helped Stacey throw some cracker mix together and pop it into the oven. Soon, Rudy Rudesill arrived and our St. Patty’s party was in full swing. Even our non-Irish folks enjoyed themselves with green beer, green soda, and a salty cracker mix. Our evening concluded with our movie night. We watched an oldie but a goodie, “Big.” As the snow begins melting away, we hope you can take a drive and stop in to see us. As always, the coffee is hot and the cookies are fresh.

See you soon!

Photos courtesy of Laura Kadlec

This oversized hat made Mary Nelson giggle during our St. Patrick's Day Party!

These glasses brought out the 'silly' in Frances White!

Joe Berger was dressed for green beer!

Paul and Carol Bauer had a good time partying on St. Pat's Day!

Donna and Duane Flopp enjoyed the music at the party!