Activities at Juniper House Care Home

The chill of December had settled in, but the festive spirit, Brackley was burning bright-literally! As we stepped into December, we made sure we took trips around Brackley, not to reach a destination, but to soak in the dazzling lights that had transformed the town into a winter wonderland.

We had our Christmas music playing on the minibus as we set off to find some remarkable houses. It wasn't long till the first house was in view, it was full of lights. Gasps of wonder rippled through the vehicle as each turn revealed another breathtaking display. From twinkling lights, to an inflatable snowman waving cheerfully from the front lawn, the variety and volume of the decorations were truly impressive. Everyone who went out to see the lights said what a wonderful time they had looking at them. There were smiles from the time we left till much later on in the evening.

Jean said how beautiful the lights were and didn’t want to come back and wanted to go see some more.
June said that it was just amazing. She said she'd never seen anything like it.

Helen said she couldn't believe how many lights she had seen. She said people go mad now at Christmas, but it's so nice to see. Keith said they are very nice, but he thinks people are now in competition to see who can have the most. Elizabeth said thank you so much for an amazing evening. We all had a great time seeing all the lights!

On the 16th December we were very lucky and, for the first time at Juniper House, we were able to connect with the Brackley round table. 

We had a wonderful visit from Father Christmas on his float. Riding high on his festive float, with glittering lights and cheerful decorations, Father Christmas arrived, his booming “Ho Ho Ho!” echoing through the grounds. 

The instant he appeared, a wave of joy washed over the residents and staff. The float really did show how much hard work the Brackley round table committee put into this going ahead for the local people of Brackley town. The classic Christmas songs were played on the float. Residents were tapping their feet, some clapping hands and some dancing to the music when they went outside. 

It was a lovely moment when the residents went outside and waved and wished Father Christmas a merry Christmas which in return, he waved at everyone, offering words of cheer and spreading genuine Christmas spirit. What a wonderful evening we all had. We even enjoyed some mince pies when we were waiting for our visit. 

Our local country market held an event here at Juniper House this festive season. This year, it truly lived up to its reputation, offering a delightful array of goods perfect for gifting or indulging in a little self-love. 

The moment you stepped inside, the market buzzed with activity the Christmas music was playing. Tables were laid with jewellery which shimmered under the twinkling lights, each piece telling a story of a craftsmanship and care. Delicate necklaces, bold earrings and unique rings caught the eye, offering something for every style and personality. Residents could be seen carefully examining each creation, considering the perfect piece for a loved one or a special treat for themselves.

The aroma of freshly baked goodies wafted through the air, leading many to the cake stalls which had a range of Christmas cakes and biscuits and some wonderful sausage rolls. The country market wasn’t just a place to connect. It was a place to support our local country market and find some lovely gifts. As the afternoon came to a close. Everyone departed the lounge where it took place with their arms full of goodies and hearts filled with cheer. 

Everyone is already looking forward to the next time the country market comes to visit us again. The afternoon was a success, a reminder that the simple joys of community, craftsmanship, and thoughtful giving are the true essence of the holiday season. The ladies who run the country market did say how well they did the day they came.

Joyce used to work at the country market, so she was very happy to see the ladies come into the home where she now lives. June said how she really enjoyed looking at all the stalls and left with lots of different jewellery said she didn't know which bracelet to get, so she treated herself to two.
Janet brought a slice of lemon cake and said how nice it was.

After a few busy weeks of endless fun and lots of visitors over the festive season, we decided we were going to enjoy an afternoon with a pamper session. 

With facemasks, foot spas, hand massages, nail painting and some very relaxing music. 

Just what we all needed!

As the world dart competition final was on this week we thought we would hold our very own competition at Juniper House. 

We hadn't played this before at home but what a success it was, with everyone saying how they really enjoyed it and looking forward to playing again. 

But there can only be one winner and this time the winner was Reg. 

On the evening of Wednesday the 18th of December, Juniper House was very lucky to have the Brackley male voice choir.

They came along to sing carols with us all. We sang lots of traditional Christmas carols. This brought happiness to all that came and some even had a few tears, but they said these were happy tears of old memories at Christmas.

Staff also came along to sing with the residents. Joyce said she really enjoyed this evening, she said it was lovely, and thanked the choir so much for coming along.

Keith got a little emotional too, saying how Christmas brings back memories, but they were happy tears.

He also said how amazing the evening was.