We had a lovely sunny day planting some flowers for the outside of the home. Our residents enjoyed the planting and the lovely cool drinks. 

Congratulations to Michael Craig who celebrated 25 years as chef at Birch Heath Lodge. With a massive thank you from the Birch Heath team and MMCG for 25 years fantastic service, we look forward to the next 25. Mike is an excellent chef who prepares fabulous meals with a cheery smile which makes him popular with everyone. 

Today's entertainment was a new singer called Rachel, we had a really enjoyable day celebrating St George's Day. Residents really enjoyed the afternoon, and finished it off with a glass of wine. 

Dear Danielle and the team at Carmel Lodge, I wanted to thank you for all the wonderful care you gave to my dad during the almost 12 months he spent with you. Dad always told me he was well looked after and that I was not to worry about home. It was a huge weight off my mind to know you were looking out for him. Everyone has been so kind and I always felt that you all knew him. I don't want to single people out but I am particularly grateful to activities for their patience in communicating with dad. All the team always helped and understood my concerns.

We bought some bubble blowing machines for our residents as part of our ongoing sensory programme. We use them in residents rooms, in lounge areas, outside, as well as parties. Christopher has his own machine for his room and one of his favourite things is to catch the bubbles. This is Christopher enjoying the sunshine catching bubbles. He giggles so much and that makes us so happy. 

Today was St. George's Day , the day we celebrate George slaying a dragon for England! And there's no better way to celebrate than with a party! We listened to music from Vera Lynn, Tommy Steele and The Beatles. Played games like the Cockney Rhyming Slam Game and St. George themed Bingo. And ended it all with some fish and chips. 

We held a games afternoon here at Belmont, wine, sherry and hot beverages were served. Residents said how much they enjoyed the variety of games to choose from. 

The Westbourne residents and staff celebrated HRH Prince Philip's life with a royal afternoon tea, and watched the service of the funeral. The lounge was decorated with bunting, pictures of Prince Philip and the Royal family. As residents listed to the bands playing, they waved flags and sang along, also wearing crowns to mark the occasion. Everyone enjoyed cucumber sandwiches, homemade Victorian sponge cake and scones made by our chef Dan, they were delicious! To finish our celebration, we enjoyed a glass of prosecco whilst listening to commemorative music.

Yesterday afternoon we held a tribute to the Queen concert. The concert was well attended, cheesecake and coconut slices accompanied the hot beverages, Sherry and wine. Union flags were held aloft and waved throughout the royal tribute. 

Having an active lifestyle with physical activity and a creative outlet to keep the mind sharp is important as we grow older. Pebble art/painting rocks is an exciting, new activity that sharpens and broadens one’s mind and most importantly delivers numerous health benefits.