Summer 2007

When the lavender is in bloom, forming a fragrant backdrop for a blaze of golden coreopsis, white daisies, red coral bells, and velvety lambs’ ears, it’s time to invite the residents of Mountain Meadows to afternoon tea. The day was warm outside but cool in the house, thanks to my Mid-western upbringing of closing up the cool house early in the morning. Air-conditioning was unknown then; here we have none by choice. 

Early afternoon the bus arrived, and soon our guests, assisted by the caring staff at Mountain Meadows and some volunteers, were seated. A white cloth covered one table, which was set with colorful blue and white china, accented by bouquets of gold and white flowers.  The second table was covered in gold. One guest fingered the cloth and said, “You must have known I was coming. I love this color.” Another said, “Oh, how beautiful. It’s so nice to be in a home again.”

I looked around at some of the faces, familiar from past years, and was saddened by those I did not see and would not see again: Russell Lee, Louie O’Callahan, and dear Rose. Each time I saw her, Rose would reach out and grasp my hand and look up, saying, “I love you.” How could I not love her in return? Others have gone on, also; I hope they, too, are having tea and scones, in another place.

After the tea was poured and everyone was eating, we were able to visit with various ones and listen to tales of where they had lived, and of memorable times in their lives. My eighteen-month-old great granddaughter made an appearance, which pleased the baby lovers (and me). She blew kisses and said “Bye” to all. I thought, “Wow! Nearly a century of age-difference here between Anna and some of the guests. Will she see another century come ‘round, as these people have?” I hope so.

After tea, everyone went outside to sit in the shade of the porch and take in the beauty of the afternoon. In the distance, the mountains were dark green against a clear blue sky. A  light breeze ruffled the trees and flowers; it was time to relax and talk some more. In the talk were numerous murmurs of appreciation for the afternoon, and for their being welcomed in someone’s home….”like when I had a home of my own.”

Then it was time to leave for their present home at Mountain Meadows. As we listened to their expressions of thanks, and their goodbyes, I thought, “Thank you. Thank you for coming.”  For we had learned the year we had our first tea party that we were not doing it so much for them, as for us.  How rewarding it is to give pleasure.

Have you ever thought of inviting a few residents to tea…or to coffee, or for a picnic? It doesn’t have to be a large group: one, two, four, six…whatever works for you. Give it some thought; your rewards will be priceless.

Fern Arness is Activities Director: 509-548-4076

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