By Laura Kadlec Activities director/music therapist

The story of “Silent Night” began the sing-a-long on Monday morning. Everyone enjoyed hearing the story about its origin. On Christmas Eve 1818, Joseph Mohr brought the words to Silent Night to Franz Gruber and asked him to compose a melody and guitar accompaniment for that night’s mass, after river flooding had possibly damaged the church organ. The church was eventually destroyed by repeated flooding and replaced with the Silent-Night-Chapel. It is unknown what inspired Mohr to write the lyrics, or what prompted him to create the new carol. And the rest is history for one of the most loved Christmas melodies. Popcorn filled the afternoon and soon we were throwing bean bags for Tic-Tac-Toss. We even had a good-sized audience of those not willing to look silly, but wanting in on some of the action. Winners this week were: Fourth, Carol Bauer; third, Frances White, Milda Bautch; second, Nancy Bishop, Dorothy Pfaffe; and first place champ, Shirley Klinski. A quick supper and we set up for bingo. We welcomed Joyce and Marie Berger who helped us set up and deliver candy rewards.

Father Jojo and Terry Pelzel brought mass and communion to us first thing Tuesday morning. It is a special time especially as we continue to celebrate the birth of Christ. Folks stayed out for a fun game of “Name That Holiday Tune.” This week we were challenged with many Christmas songs from other countries. Those earning places were: Fourth, Dorothy Pfaffe, Shirley Klinski; third, Carol Bauer; second, Penny Stafford; and first, Barb Grewe. The crafters completed their snowmen (people) as they chose hats, scarves, and buttons to adorn and design their creations. With those additions, the snowmen really came alive! We did a quick clean up and joined Pastor Phil Bloomdahl from the Evangelical Free Church for a time of worship and song. Our evening concluded the day with a fun game of “Climb the Mountain.”

The polka music coming from the dining room on Wednesday morning beckoned us all to come and join in on the bowling game. Mary Peterson and Weston Bocksell from Ave Maria Academy were our pin setters and score keepers. They were so efficient that we were able to get extra rounds in. Earning places were: Fourth, Nancy Bishop; third, Frances White; second, Shirley Klinski; and first place (tie with both scoring two strikes!) Ivan Mason and Milda Bautch. It was onto afternoon activities beginning with fruit bingo. It was fun to have the “littles” (grades K-2) from Ave Maria join us. Their excitement at earning a bingo was contagious! Black out winner this week was Alice Brantner. Many of our folks stayed out for our mid-week social: peppermint ice cream!

Everyone joined in on the Local News and Coffee time Wednesday morning. Coffee and donuts were the catalyst and Kathy Shingledecker brought joy as well as the news from the local newspapers. Lunch followed and mid-afternoon many of the ladies lined up for manicures. With nails drying, we enjoyed seeing Brad Richardson arrive with his totes full of cuteness: the puppies are here! Some were only four days old! There really is nothing sweeter. We enjoyed all the love they shared with us.

Another round of “The little Drummer Boy” started off our Friday morning. And our drumming session always ends with “The Christmas Polka.” We continue to be amazed that there even IS such a polka. But then again, why not? Craig Morton arrived for happy hour and played all kinds of holiday music. It was fun to hear so many different songs. Christmas cut out cookies were served and everyone’s favorite beverages. After the fun and festivities, we enjoyed the evening watching a Hallmark movie, “The Christmas Wish.” We do hope you find time to share some of your holiday spirit with us during these special days. We’ll keep the coffee pot on.

Nugget enjoyed the sledding almost more than the kids! Photo courtesy of Laura Kadlec