Once a month, residents have the opportunity to select a carry-in meal. This month Kentucky Fried Chicken was the popular vote. Of course, nobody does chicken like KFC, so it was a real treat. Carry-ins are a fun opportunity to satisfy our food cravings and a great time to socialize, make new friends and share stories.

The Christmas season offered ample opportunities for a wide variety fun activities that got many of the residents involved. One of the most lively favorites was our twist on the usual gift exchange by holding a White Elephant Party. The activities staff supplied festively wrapped gifts of assorted personal items and each participant drew a number that corresponded to a gift. A rowdy bout of present-stealing fun began when participants could choose to steal another player’s gift and the game continued until each guest was satisfied with their prize. It was a zany party that we’re looking forward to playing again soon.

Each year the president of Liberty Nursing Center of Colerain, Linda Black-Kurek, hosts a wonderful Christmas party for the staff and this year was certainly no exception. Food was catered by a Cincinnati favorite, Eli’s BBQ, and we were showered with marvelous gift bags and raffles. Thanks so much for your generosity Linda!

For Veterans Day, our community partnered with Viaquest. They put on a wonderful presentation that included a historical slideshow as well as a recognition ceremony. We saluted more than 20 senior veteran residents, which also included spouses who have lost a veteran mate. It was a wonderful day to reminisce, share, and be thankful.

We strive for variety in our outings, and this week we decided to hit the Dollar Tree. It's relaxing to browse the isles and it's the perfect place to pick up odds and ends to finish personal projects. Topping the trip off was a wonderful lunch at Perkins.

Golden Leaf Baptist Church recently conducted a service for our residents. The program was engaging with lots of singing, and we’re looking forward to quarterly visits with them.

Several times a year the folks at Greater Hope Church stop by bearing gifts, treats and organizing plenty of fun. Residents look forward to these worship visits and often family members join us. Greater New Hope is a riveting group that manage to get everyone involved on their visits. We sang familiar songs such as “If You’re Happy and You Know It” and “He’s Got the Whole World In His Hands”. We’re certainly looking forward to seeing them again very soon!

We’re taking advantage of the beautiful weather and gorgeous fall colors, so Hamilton County’s Parky's Farm is top on our outing list. This educational farm, located within Winton Woods, makes the perfect setting for autumn activities. We spent our afternoon listening to an informative nature lecture, and enjoying the orchard and animals. From horses to chickens and even lamas, it’s a busy farm. The highlight of our adventure, was a great hayride into their pumpkin patch to collect pumpkins.

The talented voices from Bart's Bards ensemble nourished our spirits with their recent visit. They are a theatrical ministry that seeks to promote Christian fellowship through the performing arts. Their skits and songs were truly a delight and had residents clapping and toe tapping. They'll be visiting us at least twice a year, so keep an eye on our calendar and join us!

These days, the sports jersey has become the flag of the sports world. Fans love to broadcast and connect with their favorite team or player by wearing them. So Liberty Nursing Center of Colerain has decided to deem Fridays as Liberty Sports Day. For a modest donation to the residents' fund, staff may wear a sports jersey of their choice to work that day. We love that it's created some fun team rivalry among staff members and also benefits our residents. Funds assist residents with outings, personal needs and food carry-ins, to name a few.