Spreading holiday cheer

Lois Folkner has tales of her travels for days, so every time visitors stop by the Bee Hive Homes, she sees it as an opportunity for her to share.

Folkner was thrilled to see some fresh faces to converse with but even more excited that they came to sing.

The 94-year-old and the other nine residents at the assisted living facility enjoyed Christmas carols and gifts Sunday, when volunteers with the Adopt a Grandparent program held a party for them.

Christina Calloway: Portales News-Tribune

Ashton Radloff, 4, of Portales sings "Joy to the World" to Bee Hive Homes resident Lois Folkner.

"I'm a people person, I love people," said Folkner in a soft, sweet voice.

Volunteers sang Christmas classics including "Deck the Halls," "Silent Night" and "Jingle Bells."

A few residents chimed in, adding rich baritone and airy soprano sounds. Others smiled and clapped along, happy that a few community members came to brighten their day.

Valerie Pacini, director of activities and community relations at the Bee Hive, says visits such as these give residents a happy break in their routine.

"It helps them to know people love them and still treat them with dignity even thought they can't live at home," Pacini said.

She added that the community acts as an extended family, because many of the residents do not have family here locally.

Pacini says she tries to schedule at least one fun activity daily.

"Social things are good," she said. "Even folks with conditions such as dementia can enjoy it."

After singing songs, volunteers helped residents open up their gifts, which contained lotions, hot chocolate and a mug. They also gave residents hand massages with the lotion they gifted to them.

Folkner was happy with her gift but she was more excited about visiting with volunteers.

"I love to talk to them and they say they love to talk to me," Folkner said. "I lived a lot and I like to share my experiences."

Later on that day, volunteers made their way to Heartland Continuing Care Center and did a little singing and gift giving for the residents there.

Christina Calloway: Portales News-Tribune

Volunteers with the Adopt a Grandparent program sang Christmas carols Sunday at Heartland Continuing Care Center.

Organizer Rebecca Allen said the purpose of Adopt a Grandparent was to give gifts to residents and spread the holiday cheer.

"My favorite part is talking to them and watching their facial expressions when we sing and give them presents," Allen said. "I love their stories."

Allen said she's happy to give attention to a somewhat forgotten group and hopes she can do this next year.

"I think it definitely makes them feel more loved," Allen said.