01/01/2026
Happy First Day of 2026!
Everything was new today at Griggs County Care Center in Cooperstown, ND! !
New fallen snow, new activity calendar, new conversations and new goals, wishes and resolutions were spoken out loud!
Coffee shop hour was a New Years social event.
We served coffee, hot chocolate, apple cider, black cherry wine coolers, beer and honey brandy.
The dietary staff treated us with cherry Jello poke cake with Cool Whip garnish!
And after we were all done we shared aloud our resolutions. Some of them were:
"To be here next year to make another resolution."
"For my kids grandkids and great grands to be healthy and safe!"
One fella said, "To chase Jodi Rae until I catch up to her!" Then he turned and winked!
Another soul said, "I want a better relationship with God and to walk again!" Everyone clapped!
One resident wants to be free from having to use a walker.
One man wants to be not blind anymore and he wants to dance more!
One dear gal wants the doctor to sign off on her having a little wine once in awhile. Her resolution is to be successful in her ask! The crowd erupted into laughter!
One of the staff who is younger wants to not be anxious or bothered by little things. This catulpulted the discussion into an organic, loving therapy session!
The women residents assured her there should be no time wasted on being bothered and that life goes fast.
We made a toast to every resolution before shouting "Hip Hip Hurrah" 3 times to solidify them as prayers!
Then we turned the music up loud and danced to the song by ABBA called, *Dancing Queen!* They were waving their hands in the air and were smiling for miles!
We all went different directions after welcoming the New Year in together. Some played King's Corners with cards, some watched movies, others visited in the main room while a few snuck back to the serene comfort of their rooms. Earlier in the day, Baby Mikey visited! Nothing gets as much attention as a baby in the house!
During towel folding today, the crew prayed for other residents who needed a touch.
The old year was heavy when we lost people we cherished. In balance, it was light in laughter, love and person- centered care.
We believe that 2026 will be the best yet!
Thank you all for following our page this year and for engaging with us! We love you!
And to all our staff-you are exemplary partners in care and the reason these moments are so meaningful! Take care of you while caring for them!
Happy New Year, Indeed!