It was good to see Victor at the meeting. Though he was temporarily in a wheelchair, he looked extremely fit and well. We were reunited with Hannah too. She was a local Lady who was involved in the Christmas edition of OPHF4YO’s.
Again, for me, it was disappointing. In spite of initial indications promised a near full house, only Phoenix, Mason and Calum were able to attend, and Lillian Fred and I. Sylvia’s Daughter came with Hubby as usual and Charles Dickens, our Choir Conductor, also came.
I can understand, of course, that the children have other pressures occupying their minds. They have made many new friends at the big schools who want their time, and they will have joined many activities which often occur at weekends. The aura of meeting these very elderly and friendly people will also wear out over time. It is just disappointing that ExtraCare did not take the golden opportunity to continue the scheme and give other Residents and Children the same experiences which we enjoyed. We ended the meeting with Victor and Hannah leading us in a Carol or two.
There was one ray of sunshine for me however. Mason produced a pack of cards and within minutes the three children were absorbed until we started to break up, laughing and joking, playing various games which none of us adults could understand. Being a Bridge player, I think what a good way to help their arithmetic and memory.
There is tentative talk of renewing the meetings in January
K