Orange Memories Musings: Weather? Love? The Olympics?
By Beth Robertson
February. What did we talk about? Weather? Love? The Olympics? All three were topics of conversation this month. The weather was unusually warm and, somehow, climate change and global warming have taken a back seat. We sang love songs and nostalgically recalled romantic love. We watched the Olympics and were in awe of these athletes and the effort, time and money put into sports.
All three topics, if we stop to think about it, are related. The travel and effort put into sports at all levels have an effect on global warming and, by default, the weather. If we think about love in broader terms — family, nature, our planet and our concern for future generations — we question the money, time and resources put into higher-level sports. Anybody up for a good discussion? And we were broken-hearted over Canada’s hockey losses — but, oh, so proud of the women’s and men’s teams.
Speaking of Canadian pride, the memorial service at Tumbler Ridge, in this time of tragedy, brought out the best in Canadians when differences were set aside. At the invitation of an Indigenous leader, attendees were invited to hold hands. Even watching on TV, one could feel the love, warmth and compassion. To see our prime minister and opposition leader hold hands was a moment of complete togetherness. Yes, let’s all hold hands in these difficult times — not just with friends but with those with whom we do not “see eye-to-eye.” So much can be accomplished through compassion and co-operation.
The Alphabet Owls and their teachers came to brighten our day on Feb. 10. They brought many smiles with their nursery rhymes, songs and joie de vivre. Thank you for coming, teachers and little ones. Come again soon.
Feb. 12. Just wow! The “Musical Friends,” four women from Dinsmore, wowed us with their vocal and instrumental presentation, “All Aboard.” They took us on an imaginary trip, complete with leis. Their instrumental prowess and beautiful four-part harmonies enthralled us.
From professional entertainers to the learners in less than 24 hours! The little ones from Kid Kare brought bright smiles on Feb. 13. They sang songs and showed us their hand games. Special thanks to the teachers and little ones — and for the valentines!
To be a little philosophical, I marvel at the difference between teaching in “my day” compared to now. I admit, I think present-day teachers have much of it right in allowing more freedom of expression while gently disciplining. When I stop to think about it, there was no preschool or kindergarten in rural areas years ago. We were stay-at-home moms, and that was the societal expectation.
We have had our regular in-house fun. We have played games, made love-bug decorations and had singalongs featuring love songs.
Our activity director, Cassidy Mirosovsky, is on maternity leave. Rumour has it there will be a pool to guess the baby’s arrival date and birth weight.
We welcome McKenna Haugen, who will take Cassidy’s place. We look forward to getting to know you, McKenna. Residents, fasten your seat belts!
Our Valentine party was on Feb. 13, complete with a tasty plate of treats and a beverage. Following lunch, we could be found wandering through the halls, peering at walls and into corners on a scavenger hunt. Fun!
The Senior Choral Group sang for us on Feb. 18. We enjoy the singing and the fun skits. The camaraderie that follows is testament to how much we enjoy their visits.
Residents came out to hear a fourth-year pharmacy student present an information session entitled “Sleep Well, Live Well.” Thank you to the presenter and Central Plains Co-op Pharmacy. Sleeplessness is definitely a problem as we age.
A big thank you this month to Morgan, our manager; our activity directors, Cassidy (past) and McKenna (present); and the entire staff at Orange Memories. They care for us, feed us, do our laundry, clean and answer multiple calls each day — all done with caring and smiles.