A caroling we go sharing the joy of the season
Catherine Simpson
For eight years Robson men and women have visited homes whose Christmas may not be as merry as others this season. Illness, loss of a loved one, surgeries and other reasons made those who opened their door to us quickly have tears in their eyes remembering Christmases past. Joy to the World, Hark the Herald Angels Sing and Jingle Bells were just a few songs sung with lots of ringing bells and much gusto. Even the “non-singers” found they made a merry sound as they saw how much joy this music and our coming brought to our hurting neighbors. It was a delight to have Santa Claus (Vicki Baker) join us again this year, and this year she brought her special elf (Susan Hebert).
It made our hearts sing to see the nonverbal join us in song as the carols stirred memories that had been forgotten. We saw caregivers beaming as they witnessed the smiles on their loved ones’ faces almost glow. We shared tears and lots of hugs as we visited those who are nearing the end of their time on earth, and we knew we had given a gift of love that they can take with them on their journey home.
Every year on the third Monday of December a group has sung their way through Robson Ranch. Anyone is welcome, both men and women, to join our group, which is sponsored by the Games for Dames Club. The homes we visit were shared by friends and neighbors who wanted these dear people to have a Christmas blessing. This year we started and ended at Dick and Lynda Anderson’s home. Next year we hope you can join our merry group as we spread the joy and love of the Christmas season. Singing is not a requirement; we always need bell ringers. All you need is a desire to give and a smile to share.
This year we dedicated this evening to our dear Alice Uyeda who rarely missed our night of song. We like to imagine she was singing with us along with the angels as we went to 22 homes this year.
Please pass on to any caregivers you know that there is a group to support them at Robson Ranch called Robson Angels. This is a group of volunteers who want to serve caregivers any way they can. More information is on the Robson website in the classified area under the Housekeeping/In-Home Assistance section. All you do is call the names on the list and see who is available to help get groceries, sit with your loved one, take them to the doctor or just to chat, whatever your need may be. Please don’t hesitate to call these wonderful neighbors. Many have been caregivers and just want to give back. If you have any questions please call Catherine at 817-707-7707.
Mark your calendar for 2017, third Monday in December, and you too will be blessed with hugs.