We had our first hot spell of the year yesterday and today, the Mansion was warm, the air conditioners are in the basement still, the residents still getting over the harsh winter.

Julie, the Activities Director, was reading a short story to the residents, and many of them had gathered around her, some to escape the sun still beating down on their windows, it was in the mid-80s. Courtney came into distribute some medicines to joan and others, everyone was following the stories closely.

Red came and sat down next to Jean in the background, she leaned over and stroked his back while Julie finished the story. Some of the rancor and grumpiness of the winter seemed to ease in the warmth. The residents can get out, take walks, sit on the porch, they feel less confined. I can feel the different mood. Barb, one of the residents I often spoke with, has left the Mansion.

So has Debbie, who loved to smoke a pipe. I still have a spare pipe in the car in case she runs out. I stood in the doorway, gave Red a chance to visit anyone who wanted to see him, and then left. Next week, I’m taking Madeline out to lunch. I think I’ll invite Maria two, the two are close and talk often. I think Minnie would like to come also.

Tomorrow, I’ll post a new residents list for people who l like to send messages to the residents. I think we’ll do Bingo again also. Saturday, the Albany Warriors, the refugee soccer group, is  heading to my town to visit our friend Ed Gulley and hike in our woods and have lunch at the Round House Cafe.

I’m hoping to surprise them with their new colored sweatbands. They are looking stylish these days.