May update
The Priory – May update
I hope everyone enjoyed the Coronation. It was certainly a spectacle – something that we do so well in the UK. The residents were glued to their televisions for most of the day. Other than the event itself, I will have lasting memory of Penny Mordaunt bearing the swords of state. Wonderful that she took such a leading and visible role.
Our own celebrations kicked off on Friday with a magnificent lunch in the glazed hallway. The hallway and indeed the whole house was a riot of red, white and blue. Many thanks to Rachael for all her effort with the decorations – you could not have missed that something was happening. For those residents who could not make it, we took the celebration to them, so everyone was involved. We had crowns for everyone, cardboard union jack glasses and bunting and flags by the boatload. There were even a couple of inflatable crowns for the table. And of course, the residents and staff all sported their own red, white and blue themes.
Helen prepared a lovely lunch of finger sandwiches (no crusts of course!), vol-au-vents, Coronation quiches, pate toasts etc, followed by the King’s Trifle with filled Viennese fingers. And of course, a tea-cup or two of Pimms.
Following the lunch, most residents retired for an afternoon rest in preparation for the main event. The Coronation Day weather was such shame for everyone, but Sunday made up for it – a glorious day in the garden.
We have also now been able to reschedule our pub visit to Wednesday 28th June. We were thinking of trying somewhere new, but despite the thought, we couldn’t come up with anywhere better. So rather than changing for change’s sake, we will be back at The Red Lion in Lacock for 12 midday. That way we can have a drink and have our food served before it gets too busy.
Our problem last month was the availability of transport, so as we are never sure exactly how many residents will feel like joining us on the day, could we ask that all families and friends make their own way there please? That means we will not be worried about squeezing everyone in the bus if our numbers stay high. Could you please let Lynne know who is coming along please? Lynne will then share the lunch menu with you so that the meals can be pre-ordred. This is always a popular and enjoyable event, with plenty of staff and families joining us.
Following the success of last year’s tea party, we hope that you and your wider family are able to join us at this year’s event. We will organise some musical entertainment and of course, will provide tea and cakes for everyone and some ice creams for any children who may like to come along. It will be a very informal event. so residents, families and staff can get to know each other.
Saturday 5th August – Family Tea Party – 2.30-4.30pm.
Last year we had to limit the numbers with Covid still lingering, so hopefully this year, it will not be a problem. However, could you please let us know if you are able to join, so that Helen & Judith can manage the cake production.
In September, we have had a wonderful idea suggested of Cream Teas at Bowood – we will let you know more nearer the time.
During April, all residents who wanted to, received their Spring Covid booster. A couple of residents felt a bit unwell with some after-effects, but in the main, most were fine. I am sure there will be another booster in the Autumn for the winter. It is certainly worth keeping the boosters up to date as even though the WHO have told us the pandemic is over, there is still quite a bit of infection around. By then, there may even be a joint Covid & Flu jab?
As a few residents were not feeling their best, we rescheduled the Residents’ Meeting to 12th May at 11:15 am – Friday this week. Minutes will be shared with everyone.
And finally a warm welcome to two new members of staff – Irene Sinclair and Angharad Jones. Irene will be joining our night team, while Angharad will be working on the day shifts. Welcome to you both.