To celebrate the start of the Olympic games in Paris, our residents enjoyed a week of Olympic themed activities ranging from sports competitions to creative crafts.

On Monday morning, in the garden view lounge, we embraced our artistic side by using watercolours to create a beautiful rendition of the Olympic rings. Our creativity flourished as we carefully painted each ring, paying attention to every detail and colour choice. The tranquil atmosphere of the lounge provided the perfect setting for us to immerse ourselves in the painting process, allowing our imaginations to run wild as we brought the iconic symbol to life on paper.

In the main lounge, as some of us were captivated by the broadcast of the Olympic games, immersing ourselves in the excitement and competition unfolding on the screen. Meanwhile, others took part in a creative activity, meticulously crafting Olympic torches using laminated card and delicate tissue paper. The room was filled with a mix of enthusiasm for the sporting event and artistic expression, creating a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere within the space.

During our afternoon in the garden view lounge, we transformed paper plates into representations of the Olympic rings. Upon completing this artistic endeavour, we took the opportunity to savour a refreshing beverage in the garden, fully appreciating the delightful weather that surrounded us.

We spent the afternoon enjoying a lovely garden tea party. We were grateful for the shade in the summer heat, we kept cool with some cold drinks alongside our usual cup of tea and coffee and sweet treat.

On Tuesday morning in the main lounge, a few of us engaged in therapeutic colouring activities, while others participated in a language-based whiteboard game. The atmosphere was relaxed and conducive to both creative expression and mental stimulation. The therapeutic colouring provided a calming and meditative experience allowing participants to unwind, while the whiteboard game challenged individuals to think critically and engage in friendly competition. Overall, it was a well-rounded morning activity that catered to different preferences and interests within the group.

In an effort to embrace the essence of the Olympic spirit, we engaged in a spirited competition of bowls and catch in the garden view lounge. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and enthusiasm as we engaged in the games, each of us giving our best effort while also enjoying the thrill of the challenge.

In the main lounge, many of us enjoyed our lunch outside so as to take advantage of the splendid weather.

In the afternoon we took part in some archery practice. We enjoyed the process of honing our archery skills, and the competitive atmosphere was very exciting.

Later, we were treated to a visit from Tinkerbell the therapy dog. We love stroking her and giving her treats and cuddles.

Over in garden view lounge, we spent the afternoon relaxing in the garden. Our exploration of the garden amid the summer’s heat left us feeling rejuvenated and connected to the wonders of the natural world.

In the main lounge, Cooking Club spent the morning rustling up some delicious crepes that we had with lemon and sugar. Some of us enjoyed a sprinkle of cinnamon, while others kept it simple with a traditional approach. While whisking the batter was hard work, it was more than worth it for the satisfaction of eating something we made from scratch.

Meanwhile in garden view, we spent the morning constructing a giant puzzle. We worked as a team to complete the picture, we felt a sense of triumph when it was done.

This afternoon in the main lounge, we indulged in a summer Tea Party with a choice of cakes to enjoy. The sun was hot, but the combination of shade, a light breeze, and lively conversation made for a delightful afternoon.

In garden view lounge, the afternoon was spent participating in music therapy. We sang along to memorable tunes,  played some percussion instruments to the beat of the music. It was fun to be reminded of songs from our past.

Meanwhile, some of us were treated to a boating trip down Basingstoke Canal. It was a cool 30 degrees Celsius, so the breeze generating by the motion of the boat was a welcome relief. We spotted some local wildlife, before relaxing with a lovely cup of tea or coffee.

In garden view lounge on Thursday morning, we tested our culinary skills in cooking club. Following in the footsteps of our fellow residents, we had a crack at making luxurious French crepes. Afterwards, we enjoyed the fruits of our labour with some lemon and sugar.

In the main lounge, we spent the morning doing some flower arranging with Louise. As always, we thoroughly enjoyed getting our hands dirty to create a variety of stunning decorative arrangements for the lounge.

In the afternoon, we all gathered in the main lounge to listen to this week’s entertainer, Geoff Gordan. He was great on his guitar, playing classic rock and roll hits from the late 20th Century.

Friday began with an artistic flare as several of us got involved in painting a variety of water colour creations in the main lounge. We loved the calming effects of using the paints, and spending time together as a group.

In the garden view lounge, we were busy flicking through our favourite books and testing our knowledge with a few tough quiz questions. We really stretched ourselves with these brainy exercises!

In the afternoon, we all gathered in the garden for some Olympics themed whiteboard games. We played ‘The A-Z of the Olympics’, which required us to recall words related to the Olympics for every letter of the alphabet. We also did an Olympics themed wordsearch, after which we rewarded ourselves with a glass of Pimms and lemonade. It was a delightful afternoon.

Saturday was a day of individual pleasures for those of us in the main lounge. Some of us chose to invest our time in puzzles, others got involved in some therapeutic colouring, and a couple of us made more use of the watercolour paints.

In the afternoon, the activities team brought an Olympic Podium themed treat cart around to each of us. It was overflowing with different kinds of cake and angel delight, with enough choice to please any palate. We were happy to take a break from our various endeavours to choose something from the cart.

On Sunday, some of us chose to participate in a musical church service, where we sang and danced to popular hymns. The atmosphere was rich with a sense of community as we all found our own ways to express our faith.

In the afternoon, we were all treated to a visit from Tinkerbell the therapy dog. Her easy manor really helps us feel relaxed and cared for. Meanwhile, some of us persisted with our own personal hobbies, such as puzzling, painting, and word games.