Things got underway at the Meeting House at about 6:30 p.m., with members of the Village staff serving hot cocoa and the Village bakery’s cookies to the residents, family members and guests. For anyone who’s ever sampled the bakery’s cookies, you know good those are! There were some fantastic pecan sandies, some traditional gingerbread men, and my personal favorites, the white chocolate-raspberry drenched sugar cookies.
Everyone congregated in the beautifully decorated Cortland Room, the large dining area that was dedicated just over a year ago, to sing traditional songs. The director of the Village’s enrichment programs, Paula Schaeffer, was our very-able pianist and everyone was in fine voice. One of the newest members of the community, Nick C., served as our guest conductor. There were smiles all-around, and of course we laughed when we stumbled through the second and third verses of carols (or more-comical yet, started making up lyrics on the fly).
We then gathered around the tall spruce tree in the residential square of the Village. CEO Paul Landers welcomed everyone, and explained that this year’s tree was a “gratitude tree” and as we see it in our daily activities, we should reflect on how each of us has been blessed. The tree was lit as we all sang “Silent Night,” and each person hung a personalized gratitude ornament on the boughs, making this year’s tree one to cherish for years to come.
I may follow the Village’s example when I put up the tree at my house this year. I’ll put up some gratitude ornaments for my family, my friends and co-workers, and for the chance to work with the residents of Pathfinder Village. In a few days, I’ll be completing my 13th year as an employee – in that time, I’ve learned so much about the gifts and talents of people who have Down syndrome, and have met some truly outstanding individuals who have made my life richer.
Happy Holidays to All!
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