Mar

2016 The Village

Voice Issue 83

Photo taken by G. Gilchrist, Domestic Assistant

In this issue

News from Lesley McNeill Page 2 News from A.C.E. Page 12 News from David McGrane Page 3 Film Afternoon Page 13 News from Clark Contracts Page 3 The Notice Board Page 14-19 News from Customer Services Page 4-5 The Bistro Mothering Sunday Menu Page 20 News from Homecare Page 6-7 The Bistro Theme Night Menu Page 21 News from Bankhouse Page 8 Independent Living Outings Page 22 News from Lower Johnshill Page 9 Interest Groups & Events Calendars Page 23 Chaplaincy Chatter Page 10 Chaplaincy Events Calendar Page 24 Communion Service Dates Page 10 Beauty & Wellbeing Page 25 Auchlochan Men’s Social Group Page 11

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News from Lesley McNeill Many of you have been attending the Bistro over the past couple of weeks for the Tea and February has certainly been a chilling month, Cake afternoons and it has been lovely to see although spring is just around the corner. I was the Bistro busy and with plenty of laugher. I do in Wales recently and noticed the lambs hope this continues. running about the fields with a spring in their step. A pleasant and heart warming sight. Congratulations! As always we welcome all new residents to the 65 Years Married village and hope you enjoy village life with us. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Mrs May Climie and Mr Crear McCartney who both passed away last month and our thoughts remain with residents who are unwell or have been in hospital over the past month.

I am pleased to advise that the Retirement Flat door entry system has now been replaced with only a little hiccup or two along the way. I am Dennis and Sybil Steele of the Link House sure you will agree the entrance areas look celebrate 65 years of marriage on the 9th much better. The Courtyard lounge has been March 2016. They were married in Duffus, reopened after its temporary closure due to a Near Elgin, when Dennis was serving in the suitable path being established. Due to the Royal Air Force at nearby R.A.F. Station, recent road closures for works being Kinloss, Sybil worked for the B.B.C. at the local undertaken by Scottish Power, may I remind all Transmission Unit in Burghead. They are now residents, staff, relatives and visitors, that the in their 14th year in Auchlochan. main entrance at North Lodge is a one way system only and should not be used to exit the On behalf of everyone at Auchlochan we send village. Mr & Mrs Steele our warmest congratulations

and best wishes as they celebrate 65 years of Thank you to all of the residents who took the marriage. opportunity to nominate individuals for the Residents Committee. I will be chairing the Regards A.G.M on Wednesday 30th March at 2pm in the Lesley Douglas Suite, where I will announce the result of the ballot for new committee members. I look forward to working with the committee over the next 12 months.

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News from David McGrane carry out some repair work to our leaking gutters (although as you will be aware from previous Hello, visits, access to some of the soft ground areas may prove very difficult, not least due to the As many will have noticed, the access doors for amount of rain we have experienced over recent all three Retirement Apartment blocks were months). replaced on schedule during the month of David McGrane February. They provide a whole new look to the Estate and Amenities Support Manager Apartments frontage, and are much more inviting for our Residents and Visitors alike. Our Electrical contractor is still working on both the side door through to the underpass and the door News from between Blocks 2 and 3 facing the lochan. When complete these doors will be operated using the same “key fobs” already provided to all Retirement Apartment Residents. If required additional Fobs can be ordered via Customer Clark Contracts started on site 11th of January Services at £10 each, (not £5 as I wrongly 2016 and will be on site until late October 2016. mentioned to some residents when distributing We are engaged in the refurbishment of the the original ones… sorry!). One minor thing existing Nethanvale Building. The building is which has already caused issue at both Block 2 being converted to create 52 new apartments and 3, is the green “Emergency Break Glass” unit and associated communal areas for residents as being pressed for exit instead of the large Silver well as some external works. “Press To Open” button provided. The result of this being that the doors remain in the fully open We aim to carry out these works with as little position until reset leaving the block insecure disruption possible, however there may be some and subject to the “icy wind”. unavoidable disruption during this time and we apologise in advance for any inconvenience this The Courtyard Lounge permanent “Emergency may cause. If you have any concerns regarding Exit” pathway was also laid during the month of these works please contact David McGrane on February. We are just awaiting the blacksmith to Tel: 01555 893592. install a handrail for final completion. The three Toilet suites in the Lounge were also replaced at The show flats which will be on the ground floor the same time. I apologise for the Lounge being overlooking the loch, have been stripped back closed for the short period while this work was and the new flat set up is being formed with carried out, however without the temporary partition systems , electrical, heating and water Emergency Exit path being available, your Health services are ongoing at this time. and Safety had to take precedence. I hope that Progress to the upper floors includes the Residents will continue to make ever growing use stripping back of the floor areas and the new flat of the Lounge as it offers a fantastic informal set up has also commenced with partition area to meet and socialise. systems and electrical wiring ongoing.

An order has just been placed for the Over the next period, some low level roofs will replacement of the remaining 26 old style high be removed and all strip out works will be level lights around the Estate; I am now awaiting completed. Internally, works will be progressing a date for this work to commence. Once again, a on all floors creating the new flat layouts. Cherry picker will be required on site to reach these inaccessible areas. While this is on site I We thank you for your patience and am intending to have our roofing contractor understanding during this period. Page | 3

Swimming at Swimming Pool News from Customer Services Monday Afternoons

For anyone who would like to have a weekly Bowled Over! swim, from Monday 7th March our bus will drop It was great to see such a terrific turnout to the off at Lanark Swimming Pool at approximately first Short Mat Bowls open session which took 1.50pm, picking up again at approximately place on Friday 5th February in the Douglas 3.00pm. The cost of a pool session is £1.80. Suite. There was a good mix of ladies and Please book a seat on the bus with Customer gents, from experienced players to complete Services by the Monday morning at the latest. beginners, and after a few practice runs, teams were formed and it was game on! Great fun Tai Chi Class – Change of Venue was had by all, including a number of The weekly Tai Chi class has now changed venue spectators who enjoyed watching from the side to the Courtyard lounge, making the class more accessible to everyone. Please remember that lines. for anyone wishing to try Tai Chi, the first class is free of charge (a small fee is applicable for classes afterwards). Please enquire at Customer Services for further information.

Yoga Class Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing. The main components of yoga are postures and breathing. If anyone is interested in attending a Yoga class at Auchlochan, we have sourced a teacher who would provide weekly 90 minute classes at a cost of £6.00 per person. Please register with Customer Services and if there is enough interest we will make arrangements for classes to commence.

Games Afternoons 2pm–4pm every Friday in the Courtyard Lounge Don’t forget we hold weekly games afternoons in

the Courtyard Lounge every Friday. Enjoy a fun afternoon with a range of Jigsaws and Board Regular games will take place in the Douglas Games including Dominoes, Card Games, Suite, at 2pm on alternate Tuesdays and Scrabble, Boggle, Cluedo, Connect 4, Monopoly, Fridays (depending on availability of the Tension, Chess and Draughts. A great way to Douglas Suite). In March, bowls will take place meet new people and make friends. on: -

th th Bridge Club Tuesday 1st, Friday 11 , Tuesday 15 , Friday Bridge is a partnership game requiring four 25th, Tuesday 29th March and Friday 8th April. players. At the moment we have 5 people who have registered to play Bridge; enough players to Players will either need to wear flat shoes (not make up one team with one person on standby trainers with ridged soles) or carpet slippers. to make up numbers if required. If you would Stockinged feet is also acceptable. Everyone is like to join in please speak to Customer Services. welcome, come along and give it a go. Another 3 players would make up a second team.

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Singing Together model the clothes at the fashion show. Anyone If you would be interested in joining a singing can do it, it’s just for fun; no previous group, or if you can play the piano for the experience required! If you are interested, group, please contact Jean Love of 35 The please speak to Barbara in Customer Services th Cottages who is keen to get a group together. before Friday 18 March. (Clothing supplied by Please see Page 14 for further details. Brooks).

March Book Swap Afternoon One Day Together in Event

Our next Book Swap afternoon will take place th on Monday 7 March in the Village Centre Reception, 1pm–4pm. A good turnout is expected at our One Day Together in Scotland event, taking place on Please come along, browse the books on Monday 29th February in the Douglas Suite. display, chat with friends and join Customer Guests will include a number of tenants from Services for tea/coffee. our MHA Schemes in and Glasgow; we look forward to welcoming them Customer Services will be getting behind the to Auchlochan. Look out for photos of the Marie Curie Great Daffodil Appeal to raise event in the April Village Voice. money for Marie Curie Nurses by selling Daffodil Pins at the Book Swap. By buying a pin Auchlochan Bus Service you will be supporting people living with a Please be advised that there will be no Bus terminal illness, and their families. Why not Service or alternative transport available on show your support by wearing something Tuesday 15th March. Please avoid making yellow to the Book Swap. medical appointments for that day if you rely

on our bus for transport. We apologise for any If there are any other activities that you would inconvenience this may cause. like us to consider for inclusion in the activities programme, please contact Customer Services; Transport to Men’s Group Meetings we would be grateful for your suggestions. If any Courtyard residents would like to attend Brooks Fashion Show Men’s Group Meetings which take place on the & Clothing and Accessory Sale third Thursday of the month in the Retreat at Monday 4th April, 2pm – 4pm 10am, our bus will be available to transport Forget New York Fashion Week, Customer you to and from the Retreat. Please inform Services are bringing Spring/Summer fashion to Customer Services if you wish to attend and Auchlochan by hosting our very own fashion they will arrange the transport for you. show in association with Brooks of Lanark. With a well deserved reputation for selling only Village Centre Reception th the best quality brands, Brooks, a family Opening Hours on Monday 28 March business of 6 generations, will be showing a Please be advised that the Village Centre selection of ladies and menswear with the Reception will close half day on Easter opportunity for you to purchase the clothes Monday. One member of Customer Services and a range of shoes and accessories at great will be on duty from 9am – 1pm. prices after the show. On behalf of the Customer Services Team, Models Required! Would you like to be a model for the day? We Wendy Wilson are looking for volunteers, male and female, to Customer Services Manager Page | 5

News from Homecare As you know, last month Lynn Allison joined us as the Team Leader in Homecare. Jane Weir Can you believe it is March already! I have has been supporting her and is currently now been working for MHA for a year and I am continuing in her role as Team Leader until we enjoying it every bit as much as I did when I have our new Team Leader in place. Lynn and I started, if not more. carried out interviews in February and we will be welcoming our new Team Leader in the Last month, I held a meeting with the residents near future so watch this space. who receive a Homecare package and will The new care plans are in circulation and your continue to hold them every 3 months. For key worker should be working with you on those I have not had the opportunity to meet completing your care plan. The care plan is a yet, I have included a picture of myself at the care workers guide on how you like your care end of this article. to be delivered so please ensure you have as much input as possible as this is your chance to Next month I will share pictures of the shape the delivery of your care. Homecare team with you, along with their names, so you get to know the staff. Homecare General Assistants and their Day The Homecare General Assistants or “the On the 4th Thursday of every month I will be carers” as most people refer to them work to a holding an open morning in the residents schedule. Each General Assistant has a lounge in the Courtyard (block 3) where any schedule which details which residents they residents from the village are welcome to are to visit, at what time and for how long. The come along and meet for a tea or coffee (I’m schedules do not leave much room for error buying!). This month it will be the 24th of and one of the areas Homecare are assessed March between 10am and 12pm. Whether you on by the Care Inspectorate and our internal just want to pop in and say hello or if you want quality team are visit times. to talk about Homecare services, help to access Social Work funding or anything else I can help The visits on a schedule run back to back; if with, it would be lovely to see you there. staff are held back at a residents due to Everyone is welcome and I am looking forward unforeseen circumstances or have answered to seeing you. an Aidcall, the care staff will run late. Can I ask all residents to please be mindful that the The 18th of February was the ACE Quiz night Aidcall system is for emergencies only. and it was the first ACE event that I have attended. I was a member of the “Simpleton’s” and all I can say is we lived up to Visit times and Durations our name! Unfortunately I had to leave just I have created the schedules using information after the second round began due to personal I gathered when I joined MHA last year. They commitments however it was a great event change on a regular basis as the service and I really enjoyed it. Thank you to Maureen changes and / or as residents needs change. and Marion for organising it. It was a great Last year, Lesley McNeill issued a letter asking success. residents if they were happy with their current

Page | 6 visit times or what their preferred visit time I hope this has provided some insight into how would be. I am planning to issue another letter the Homecare Service works and if you do have to ensure that residents are still happy with any questions then please feel free to contact their visit times or if they have a preferred visit me on my email at time. Visit times are in 15 minute intervals; for [email protected], call on the example: 1pm, 1.15pm, 1.30pm etc. numbers below or pop along to the open morning at the Courtyard lounge later in the Durations are determined by the residents month. need. This is not decided by me. If a resident receives a package that is being funded by Kind Regards South Council (SLC), Social Work will have completed an assessment and would have allocated the resident with the number of visits required (maximum of four), the duration of each visit and the number of Care Assistants required to manage the care safely. I am more than happy to discuss this on an individual basis or during the planned open mornings. Christine Reeson Housing with Care Co-ordinator Continuity of Care

The General Assistants have regular schedules that they work on. This is to provide continuity of staff for residents. We understand that residents who receive care like their care to be delivered by someone who knows them well and understands their likes and dislikes. On the whole most schedules have allocated workers who work these schedules when they Please remember that the Homecare Team are here to assist in anyway we can. are on duty. I have been working with Newcross Health Care (the Agency) to try and Please call us on 01555 893571 or 893592 ensure that the Healthcare assistants that they send to us are regular staff who also get to know the residents and the residents get to know them so should I not be able to cover the Happy Birthday Karen! regular staff member with another member of

MHA staff, residents should get an agency carer who they are familiar with. The Homecare team and I would like to Homecare Cover wish Karen McCusker The General Assistants work in shifts. In the morning we have 8 staff including 1 team (General Assistant) a leader. The morning shift begins at 7.30am, Happy 50th Birthday twilight shift begins at 5pm and the night staff on the 5th of March. commence at 8pm until 8am. This ensures that Homecare is covered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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News from Bankhouse We would also like to wish Sandra Haggerty (kitchen) all the best for her special birthday Hello friends which she kept quiet.

Another month has passed so quickly. We will Congratulations to Emma Neil on the birth of soon be seeing the snowdrops and daffodils her son on 22 February coming in at 7lb and popping up to cheer us up as we look forward 8oz, both mother and son are doing well. to spring. For information: - Bankhouse will be holding a Mother’s Day Chiropodist – next visit is on Tue 8th Mar coffee afternoon on Saturday 5th March. Pampering Service – next visit Tue 15th Mar Tickets are on sale at £3.00 each with all funds going to the resident’s amenity fund. Everyone Hairdresser – visits every Wednesday th is welcome. If anyone would like to have a Music Therapy Session – Monday 14 Mar bouquet of flowers made up please let us Walter & Ishbelle will visit the lounge on know; they will cost £5.00. Wednesday 2nd March at 2pm.

Residents are looking forward to the Kind regards entertainer Michael Patterson returning. He is Libby Henderson - Social Care Facilitator coming to perform on Wednesday 9th March at 6.30pm.

Bankhouse would like to thank Mr & Mrs Love’s daughter for supplying the entertainers “Contrast” to celebrate Isobel’s birthday, all the resident’s enjoyed them as well. Beatitudes for the elderly a poem supplied by Miss Rollins, Courtyard The residents are enjoying their weekly trip to a garden centre for a chat and a cup of tea and Blessed are they who understand my faltering steps and shaking hand scone or cake. Blessed who know my ears today must strain to catch the things they say Our thoughts and prayers go to the family and friends of Mr T Currie, Mrs N Pugh and Mrs E Blessed are they who looked away when tea was spilled on the cloth that day Anderson who sadly passed away last month. Blessed are they with a cheery smile who stop We would like to welcome Mrs R Duffy, Mrs S to chat for a little while

Weir and Mrs P Gibaut to Bankhouse. We Blessed are they who never say “You’ve told hope you settle in well to your new home. that story twice today”

Blessed are they who make it known that I am Happy Birthday to J Sheppard, A Way, N loved, respected and not alone

McLean, J Newlands, M Benyon and C Love and Blessed are they who ease the days of my who all have birthdays in March. journeying home in loving ways.

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News from Lower Johnshill We welcome back staff in the month of March who are returning from Maternity Leave; it is The months continue to go past quicker that always nice when staff return as they are we would like. I drive to work and see the new missed by residents and family members. lambs in the fields which I must admit I do enjoy; spring is on the way yet the snow still As discussed at the residents meeting, Lynn continues to fall. Alison has now joined the Homecare Team; we wish Lynn well in her new venture but do I take this opportunity to congratulate 3 staff recognise that she is missed within Lower members who, between them, have now been Johnshill by Residents, Staff and families with the organisation for 45 years conclusive. members. The staff members being Margaret Dyet, Supervisor, Lesley Whitefield, Supervisor and Helen Duffy, Nurse within Lower Johnshill has Margaret Patrick, Care Assistant. I also now commenced her new role as Clinical Lead. mention the 5 years service provided by Kirsty Helen worked at Nethanvale before the Ramsay Care Assistant; congratulations to you transfer to Lower Johnshill so she is well known all. by the residents she cares for. Welcome to your new role Helen. We take this opportunity to send our condolences to the families of Mrs Jenny Kind regards Sievewright, Mrs Elsie Shroff and Mr William Margo Brunton Adamson. Home Manager

We welcome Mr William Wilson to Lower Johnshill. I am sure he will settle quickly and make new friends.

We will have several Birthdays in the coming month of March, ranging from 63 years to 94 years of age and Mrs McCulloch celebrated her th 90 Birthday just a few days ago. We wish all a Happy Birthday when the day arrives. Our kitchen staff will have a busy time ahead, baking and decorating birthday cakes which will be enjoyed and appreciated by all.

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Chaplaincy Chatter class gasped...... and from then on Philip rose to a new level of respect and became part of Dear Friends, the group. But Philip's family knew his time was short....too many problems for one small The new residents’ lounge is a useful and body. That summer he died. As the class of attractive facility and has been well received by eight and nine-year-olds faced the reality of all who have used it. The addition of a piano death, they marched up to the altar - but not makes it possible for us to hold regular services with flowers. Together with their teacher, they and residents are looking forward to gathering each placed an empty plastic egg on their together for fellowship and worship. Please friend's tiny casket. accept our apologies for the postponement of the service planned for February. The first John Chapter 11 Verses 25 & 26, "Jesus said to service will be held on Wednesday 9th March her, "I am the Resurrection and the Life. He at 2.30 p.m. and residents will be consulted as who believes in me will live, even though he to how often they are held thereafter. These dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will gatherings are open to all Auchlochan residents never die." and we look forward to seeing you there. Why is the Resurrection of Jesus so important? Now over to David Vogan, chaplain to Lower For two reasons: 1. His resurrection Johnshill… guarantees ours. 2. Most of us have lived long enough to experience the heartache of losing Every blessing, someone we love. Easter guarantees we will Cliff. meet them again - alive, immortal, and just like Jesus. The story is told of a nine year old boy called Philip who suffered with Down's Syndrome. In God bless you and yours. Sunday School some of the other kids made fun of him because he was "different". The David

Sunday before Easter, the Sunday School teacher gave each of the kids a plastic egg and asked them to look for symbols of new life, like seeds and leaves, and then place them inside the egg. The idea was to open their eggs on Communion Services Easter Sunday and discuss what they had found. When the children gathered, they had The next monthly Communion Services, which collected all sorts of things like flowers, are open to all Auchlochan residents, are being butterflies and rocks. But when the teacher held at: - opened Philip's egg it was empty. One child said, "that's not fair, he didn't do it right!" but The Retreat – Mon. 21st March at 3pm Philip tugged at the teacher's sleeve and said, th Lower Johnshill – Wed. 30 March at 2.30pm "I did do it right. It's empty because the tomb Bankhouse – Thu. 31st March at 2.15pm is empty. That's why we have new life". The

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News from

I must admit, I was more than a little concerned ….

…. to learn, only a week before the event, that our February talk on “The Great Wall of China” would NOT have the usual visual illustrations. My fear, I readily concede, was that our mixed audience (it was our first OPEN meeting of the year, so a hotel” which made NO concessions to guest greater number than usual was expected) would be comfort. The furnishings were almost primitive, presented with a litany of facts and figures, the toilets consisted of a hole in the floor, and the Chinese dynasties and exhaustive details of a food was close to inedible. Robert reckoned he lengthy, physically-trying journey. survived on a diet of bananas for most of the time but, towards the end of their “holiday”, discovered How wrong could I have been ? And I was far from a McDonald’s restaurant in a huge shopping mall in the only one ! Beijing. Saved by the burger !

Our guest speaker, Robert Nimmo, from the outset The Wall itself was no less physically demanding obviously a humorous raconteur, first outlined his than expected, involving very long treks over often own pre-retiral background in his Wishaw-based rough surfaces (and even through sometimes family business of “Joiners & Shoplifters” (that was frozen rivers: a nun in the party fell into one and an actual printer’s error in one of the company’s her rescue was difficult). We, however, were saved advertisements) and admitted to being a supporter my originally-feared facts and figures, etc. of Motherwell Football Club. Seems they really need a good sense of humour. Nor am I going to bore you with details about the Great Wall which are readily available from the But he is also a strong supporter of St. Andrew’s internet and other sources. Suffice it to say that Hospice in Airdrie, and it was in that role that the what I suspected might have been a lacklustre talk opportunity arose around 10 years ago to join a was actually presented with such humour that we mixed group trip to the Great Wall. were often laughing aloud. Without exception, I

Having reserved his place, advance preparation believe everyone present enjoyed another itself was daunting. First, completion of a lengthy thoroughly entertaining morning. medical form was demanded (Robert claimed his However, our planned speaker for March has had details were the only ones rejected), followed by a to call off but, fortunately, our intrepid Secretary series of increasingly-demanding walks over has been able to bring forward a talk arranged for several weekends to ensure each participant was later in the year. So we will now be welcoming fit enough for the rigours of the trip. In fact, one David Pirrett, a former referee with the Scottish did fail to meet the standard and had to withdraw. Amateur Football Association. I have not been Of course, the essential visa had to be arranged to given a title for his talk, but “Whistling in the Wind” enter China (involving application in person to the might be a good one to “kick about” for now Chinese Consulate in Edinburgh), and the necessary (groan) - and he has a “high score” as a speaker. clothing and equipment sourced. A “small” first So join us on 17th March at 10 a.m. in the Retreat aid kit was also specified, but the list of contents Atrium. would have filled a fair-sized case ! The journey to China seems to have been pretty uneventful, on In the meantime, my regards to everyone as the whole, but a traumatic experience awaited always. their arrival. Jim Neilson

They had been booked into a Chinese Government- run (a Communist country, remember) “4-star Page | 11

News From

Thursday the 18th of February saw a record number of quizzers gathered together in the Douglas Suite corridor. Whether it was because Marion and I had not done the questions or because everyone had heard that The Maintenance Team hoping for a ‘lightbulb moment’ Michael Thomas was Quiz Master for the evening – who knows? Marion and I would like to thank Michael Thomas for the skills and competence he displayed as Quiz Master and the time and effort taken in compiling the questions.

Thursday the 17th March we are holding a birdwatching day in Marion and John’s conservatory at 26 The Cottages. All are welcome between 10 – 12 noon, and 2 – 4pm. This is a fundraising event to raise money for our “Street Party” for the Queen’s official

birthday in June. We will be serving Tea, Eleven teams took part and the eventual Coffee and home baking. Anyone willing to winners were The Improbables, comprising of contribute home baking please let Marion Pat and Robert Fraser, Archie and Sandra know on 896926. All donations gratefully McDonald of The Retreat and Edward and Ann received. Please let us know if you require Aspinall of the Retirement flats. The three transport and we will endeavour to arrange couples met for the first time that night and that for you. found it a great way to make new friends.

ACE Contact details: - Maureen 890815, Marion 896926.

The Winning Team - The Improbables

Joe and Maureen Fagan provided a wonderful supper once again which everybody thoroughly enjoyed.

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Film Afternoon Crabbit Old Lady Poem supplied by M. Douglas The film shown on 22nd February was “Ruth & Alex” What do you see nurses?...What do you see? What are you thinking…when you're looking at me? starring Morgan Freeman & A crabby old lady…not very wise, Diane Keaton as a couple in Uncertain of habit…with faraway eyes? their senior years considering Who dribbles her food…and makes no reply. downsizing to a more suitable When you say in a loud voice…'I do wish you'd try!' Who seems not to notice…the things that you do. apartment for their future years. But after a And forever is losing…A sock or shoe? hectic weekend getting involved in Real Estate Who, resisting or not…lets you do as you will, they decide to stay where they are. With bathing and feeding…a long day to fill? Is that what you're thinking?...Is that what you see? The film was amusing and reminded many of us Then open your eyes, nurse…you're not looking at me. of similar situations which we had experienced in our downsizing. I'll tell you who I am…As I sit here so still, As I do at your bidding,…as I eat at your will. On the 28th March – Easter Monday – we shall be I'm a small girl of Ten… with a father and mother, showing “Letters to Juliet”; the caption is “this Brothers and sisters…who love one another classic love story is impossible to resist”. Set in A young girl of Sixteen…with wings on her feet. Verona, while her fiancé is working, a young lady Dreaming that soon now…a lover she'll meet. explores the city. She comes across a wall of A bride soon at Twenty…my heart gives a leap. letters and decides to reply to one unanswered Remembering, the vows…that I promised to keep. letter. To her surprise the author, Claire Vanessa At Twenty-Five, now…I have young of my own. Redgrave, and her grandson arrive and sweep Who need me to guide…a secure happy home. her along on a romantic adventure she could A woman of Thirty…My young now grown fast, never have imagined. Bound to each other…With ties that should last.

If you do have any requests or suggestions for At Forty, my young sons…have grown and are gone, But my man is beside me…to see I don't mourn. films that you would like to see please let us At Fifty, once more,…babies play 'round my knee, know and we shall do our best to find them. Again, we know children…My husband and me.

The film shows are on the 4th Monday of each Dark days are upon me…my husband's now dead. month, starting at 2pm in the Atrium of the I look at the future…and shudder with dread. Retreat. For my young are all rearing…young of their own. And I think of the years…and the love that I've

known. Newcomers are always made welcome. We I'm now an old woman…and nature is cruel. finish with a cup of tea/coffee which gives us the 'Tis jest to make old age…look like a fool. opportunity for a chat and to meet up with old The body, it crumbles…grace and vigor depart. friends and hopefully to make new ones. There is now a stone…where I once had a heart.

But inside this old carcass…a young girl still dwells, As already mentioned the next film show will be And now and again…my battered heart swells. on Easter Monday and even if you don’t fancy I remember the joys…I remember the pain. seeing the film you might be interested in some And I'm loving and living…life over again. Easter cake and fancies which will be served with I think of the years, all too few…gone too fast. the tea/coffee after the film show. And accept the stark fact…that nothing can last. So open your eyes, people…open and see. Audrey Groom Not a crabby old woman…look closer…see ME!! 2 The Retreat

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The Notice Board

Book Swap

th Monday 7 March

2pm – 4pm

in the Village Centre Reception

Please come along, browse through the books on display and join Customer

Services for a cup of tea or coffee and a chat in reception.

Wear something yellow in support of the Marie

Curie Great Daffodil Appeal (optional).

SINGING TOGETHER

for singers and non-singers

Pianist Required

Hello everyone

I would very much like to lead a singing group for everyone to enjoy, but to do this I will need someone to play the piano for us. If you can read music

and play the piano, please get in touch so we can have a chat. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t touched the piano keys for years, we can warm up our

fingers, brains and voices together.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Jean Love

Phone 01555 895872 Email: [email protected] 35 The Cottages

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The Notice Board

St Johns Lunch Club

Memory Café

1pm – 3pm For those of you who attend the Tuesday 8th March Lunch Club at St Johns in in the Douglas Suite Blackwood, the next lunch will take place on Are you worried about your memory? Thursday 31st March. Do you have dementia? Do you care for someone with dementia? An opportunity to come together to chat/share over Come along to this free drop in café where you some lunch.

can meet people and access information and Transport is provided. Please support. The café will be on the 2nd Tuesday of contact Customer Services for every month in the Douglas Suite. details.

Lanarkshire Festival of Male Voice Choirs

The Town House, Hamilton

st Friday 1 April

Tickets £12

Transport (if required) £6

Please telephone Marion on 896926 by 26th February if you would like to go.

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The Notice Board

Christmas Card Competition

‘Happy Landing’ by Robert Bray (a winner in 2013)

Calling all photographers!

Please wrap up warmly and get out with your cameras this winter, as we will be watching out for the best digital winter images of Auchlochan for our charity Christmas cards, which will go on sale in autumn 2016.

The competition is open to all residents and the rules are available from main reception, so pick up your copy and get snapping!

FILM AFTERNOON

Friday 22nd April 2pm in the Douglas Suite The next forthcoming attraction will be: -

A volunteer from the Woodland Trust; the

UK's leading woodland conservation charity, “LETTERS TO JULIET ” will be coming to Auchlochan to give a See page 13 for further details.

talk, focusing on the work of the Woodland Trust in Scotland. The Trust inspire people to Monday 28th March (Easter Monday) visit woods, plant trees, treasure wildlife, and at 2pm in the Retreat Atrium. enjoy the overwhelming benefits that woods A film will be shown on the fourth Monday of each and trees offer to our landscape and lives. month. Everyone welcome.

Join Customer Services to hear all about the vital work of the Trust. Refreshments served.

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The Notice Board

Auchlochan Residents Committee

A meeting of the above committee will take place on

WED 16TH March at

2:45pm in the Craft Suite

Agenda

 Matters arising from previous meeting  Dates for next year’s Meetings

If you have anything you wish the committee to discuss, please get in touch with the undersigned or your area representative by the Friday before the meeting.

Roy Calder, Secretary Tel: 01555 729215 Email: [email protected]

Auchlochan Residents Committee

The Annual General Meeting will take place in The Douglas Suite On Wed 30TH March

At 2-00pm

Agenda  Annual Report of the Committee  Matters arising from Residents  Result of Ballot for Committee members

This is an open meeting; all residents of Independent Living are entitled to attend. If you wish to raise any matters, please inform the secretary in writing at least 10 days before the meeting.

Roy Calder, Secretary Tel: 01555 729215 Email: [email protected]

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The Notice Board

Fashion Show in association with Brooks of Lanark Monday 4th April, 2pm – 4pm in The Douglas Suite

With a well deserved reputation for selling only the best quality brands, Brooks will be showing a selection of ladies and men’s Spring/Summer fashions with the opportunity for you to purchase the clothes and a range of shoes and accessories at great prices after the show.

Models Required Would you like to be a model for the day? We are looking for volunteers, male and female, to model the clothes at the fashion show. If you are interested, please speak to Barbara in Customer Services before Friday 18th March. (Clothing supplied by Brooks).

OFFERED

THREE WHEELER

WALKER

OFFERED FREE.

Please enquire at Reception.

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The Notice Board

CHIPPY THE NIGHT BISTRO

FRIDAY 4TH MARCH (FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH) OPEN FROM 5.30PM TO 7.30PM. SIT IN OR TAKEAWAY

SINGLE SUPPER A BIT ON THE SIDE FRESH FISH £3.00 £5.00 CHIPS – REGULAR £2.00 SPECIAL FISH £3.00 £5.00 CHIPS – LARGE £2.90 SAUSAGE £3.00 £4.00 FRITTERS – EACH £0.45 CHICKEN LEG £2.50 £4.50 FRITTERS – FOR 5 £2.00 CHICKEN BREAST £2.90 £4.90 PICKLED EGG £0.40 PIZZA £3.00 £5.00 PICKLED ONIONS £0.30 PIZZA HALF £1.50 £3.50 MUSHY PEAS £0.50 MINCE PIE £2.10 £4.10 CAMPBELL’S HAGGIS £2.30 £4.30 CAMPBELLS BLACK £2.30 £4.30 PUDDING

The Bistro The Bistro Auchlochan Garden Village Easter Sunday Carvery

th 27 March

Special Offer from £8.95 Every day throughout call the Bistro on Tel: 01555 668209 March & April to make a reservation

Cake & a Coffee for £1.50

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Mothering Sunday

The Bistro Sunday 6th March 2016 Served from 12.30pm – 3.00pm

Smoked Salmon & Prawns served on a bed of Rocket Or Fruit Juice

Roast Loin of Pork with Apple & Cider Sauce Or Cod Loin with a Herb Crust Or Quorn & Mushroom Filo Tart

Served with Seasonal Vegetables & Roast Potatoes

Brandy Basket filled with Fresh Fruit topped with Clotted Cream Or Apple & Rhubarb Crumble with Custard

£8.50 per Head

Please call the Bistro on Tel: 01555 668209 to make a reservation

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St Patricks Day Menu The Bistro Thursday 17th March 2016 - 7.00pm

Starters Mussels with Garlic and Chive Cream Potato and Leek Soup with Cheddar Crouton Pan Fried Bacon and Cabbage Potato Cakes

Main Courses

Slow Cooked Irish Stew

Guinness and Honey Glazed Pork with Champ Potatoes

Poached Salmon with Colcannon Potatoes

Desserts Fruity Irish Soda Bread Pudding with Fresh Cream

Bailey’s Cheesecake Irish Coffee Cake with Chocolate Sauce and Ice cream

2 courses £10.95 or 3 courses £12.95

Please call the Bistro on Tel: 01555 668209 to make a reservation

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Independent Living Outings – March/early April

The bus will commence pick-ups at 10.30am for leaving the Village at 10.45am unless otherwise stated.

Date of Bookings Cost of Trip - taken Ticket/Entry Saturday from Details if Applicable 5th Mar 29th Feb The National Museum of Rural Life (East Kilbride) - A unique partnership between Free with the National Trust for Scotland and National Museums Scotland. Discover 300 years National Trust of farming and rural home life in the museum galleries. The museum combines an Card (provided exhibition building (with shop and cafe) and the historic working farm of Wester by MHA) Kittochside. Discover how 300 years of farming and rural home life have shaped and altered Scotland’s countryside. The farm itself is still worked using techniques and equipment from the 1950s. There's a historic farmhouse which was occupied by the Reid family since the 1500s. The farm is managed to represent the 1950s, when the horse was giving way to the tractor.

12th Mar 7th Mar Silverbirch Garden Centre, Clyde Valley – Situated in Scotland’s picturesque n/a Clyde Valley, Silverbirch is renowned for offering high quality plants and homeware at excellent prices. As Scotland’s most design led garden centre, Silverbirch takes pride in interior design and attention to detail. Enjoy great coffee and freshly prepared food in the Coffee Shop.

19th Mar 14th Mar Watt Brothers & Sainsbury’s, Hamilton Retail Park – other stores include Home n/a Bargains and the newly opened TK Max.

26th Mar 21st Mar Scotland Street School Museum – Scotland Street School was designed by Admission Charles Rennie Mackintosh between 1903-1906 for the School Board of Free Glasgow. Now as a museum, it tells the story of 100 years of education in Scotland, from the late 19th century to the late 20th century. The building is a must see for Mackintosh fans, as a fantastic example of his architectural style. With many features built into the stonework and staircases, there is something to admire around every corner! In telling the story of education during this time, Scotland Street School Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Find out what school days were like in the reign of Queen Victoria, during World War II, and in the 1950s and 60s, in the three reconstructed classrooms. You can even dress up as a pupil from the past! All floors and exhibits are fully accessible by wheelchair. Please note that the museum does not have a café, vending machines only.

2nd Apr 28th Mar Moffat – Moffat is an attractive former coaching town with modern amenities. n/a Moffat offers specialist shops, cafes, hotels, beautiful parks and great walks.

Please contact Customer Services on 01555 893592 to book a seat. Please note that due to high demand, only a single trip can be booked at any one time and bookings for each outing may only be made in the week prior to that trip. If you have a suggestion for future outings, please contact Customer Services. ⋄ ⋄ ⋄

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Auchlochan interest Groups & Events Calendars

Regular Interest Groups, Activities and Classes Day/ Frequency Time Venue Event / Activity Details & Contact Monday 10am – 12 noon The Craft Suite Craft & Chatter A group learning specific crafts (Easter eggs, Christmas Weekly (Village Centre) Group decorations, Cards etc). Contact: Grethe Dillon on Tel: 894677. Monday 2pm – 4pm The Craft Suite Art Club This is a group of amateurs who bring their own materials and help Weekly (Village Centre) each other. Tea and biscuits are provided. Contact Mrs Gorrie on Tel: 895076. Monday Approx. Lanark Swimming Swimming *NEW Swimming session at Lanark Swimming Pool. £1.80 per Weekly 2pm – 3pm Pool session. Monday 2pm – 4pm The Village Centre Book Swap Book Swap afternoons will take place quarterly on the fist Monday Quarterly Reception Afternoon of March, June, September & December Monday 2pm The Retreat Film Afternoon A film will be shown on the 4th Monday of each month. Everyone Monthly Atrium welcome. Tuesday 2pm – 4pm The Retreat Art Group All welcome from amateurs needing advice to true masters of their Weekly Atrium craft. Contact Tim Lucey Tel: 895405 Tuesday 1pm – 3pm The Douglas Suite Memory Cafe Are you worried about your memory? Do you have dementia? Do you Monthly 2nd Tue of month care for someone with dementia? Come along to this free drop in café where you can meet people and access information and support. Tuesday 2pm – 4pm The Douglas Suite Short Mat Bowls Complete beginners or experienced players; everyone welcome. (can vary) Please see News from Customer Services for dates for coming month. Wednesday 10.30am The Courtyard Tai Chi Class Please book a place via Customer Services. Weekly Lounge Wednesday 2pm Croquet Lawn Croquet 2pm weekly as required. Contact Lesley Van Vilet or Anne Prees Weekly (Seasonal) for information. Tel: 892254 Friday 2pm – 4pm The Retreat Knitting Group Contact Ann Bernard on Tel: 892234 for further information. Weekly Atrium Friday 2pm – 4pm The Courtyard Games Afternoon Join friends or come along and make new one at our weekly games Weekly Lounge afternoon. A wide selection of popular games available including Scrabble, Dominoes, Boggle, Cluedo, Connect 4, Monopoly, Card Games, Jigsaws and more. Fortnightly Various Various Bridge Club Meet fortnightly to enjoy a game of Bridge. If you are interested in joining the group, please speak to Customer Services. Friday 7pm The Retreat Games Group If you enjoy playing cards and/or board games come and join a Weekly Atrium mixed group of people every Friday evening. Contact Audrey Groom on Tel: 445414 for further information. Thursday 10am The Retreat Auchlochan Men’s For further information on the Men’s Social Group, please contact Monthly Atrium Social Group the group chairman, Mr Jim Neilson on Tel: 01555 445402. (3rd Thu)

Additional events which are taking place around Auchlochan throughout March Date Time Venue Event / Activity Details Thu 17th March 10-12 noon 26 The Cottages Bird Watching Day Fundraising event. Please see news from Auchlochan 2-4pm Community Enterprise on page 12 for further details.

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Chaplaincy Events Calendar – March 2016 Date Time Venue Details Tue 1st 7.30pm Douglas Suite Gibson Gilmour ()

th Sun 6 3.00pm Douglas Suite Rev. Andrew Baker (Methodist Superintendent for Clydesdale)

Wed 9th 7.30pm Douglas Suite Gideons International (Hamilton Branch)

Sun 13th 3.00pm Douglas Suite Ian Leitch (Herald’s Trust)

Mon 14th 7.30pm Douglas Suite Gordon Blackwood (organ & piano) MUSIC

Wed 16th 7.30pm Douglas Suite Laspic Stewart

Sun 20th 3.00pm Douglas Suite PALM SUNDAY – Rev. David Young (Retired C. of S. minister)

Wed 23rd 7.30pm Douglas Suite Rev. Cliff Jackson (Chaplain)

Sun 27th 3.00pm Douglas Suite EASTER DAY – Rev. Cameron Macpherson (Retired C. of S. minister)

⋄ ⋄ ⋄ We hope that you have enjoyed reading the Village Voice this month. As always if you have any items of news or suggestions for the newsletter please contact a member of the Customer Services team on the number below.

Auchlochan Garden Village Customer Services Team - Wendy Wilson, Terrie Pate, Barbara Dalzell & Amanda O’Donnell Tel: 01555 893592 Email: [email protected] Reception is open daily: 9am - 5pm Mon to Fri and 9am - 12.45pm Sat & Sun

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Beauty & Wellbeing

Our fully equipped Hair Dressing salon, Beauty Salon and Therapy Suite are located just off the Village Centre reception. A full hairdressing service is provided and an extensive range of beauty and pampering treatments. Some treatments are available in the comfort of your own home if preferred.

Price List Hair at Studio Wellbeing

Cut & Blow Dry ………… £12.00 Opening Hours Blow Dry ………………… £ 6.50

9am – 4pm: Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday Shampoo & Set ………… £ 6.50

Call Trish on: 01555 668217 Dry Cut ...... £ 6.00

Perms ……………………… £25.00 Wellbeing Salon, MHA Auchlochan, Colour ……………………… £25.00 New Trows Road, ML11 0JS

IN YOUR OWN HOME Extensive range of beauty treatments carried out in your N own home or within our Village Centre Beauty Salon. T Please contact Hilary for further information on the E extensive range of treatments provided which include: - R N Skincare Treatments A Waxing T Electrolysis I Eye Treatments (eyelash tint, eyebrow shape/tint) O MARY REID INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF BEAUTY Threading (face, lip, chin, shape) N ITEC Body Treatments (exfoliation, massage, aromatherapy) A CIDESCO C.I.E.L. Hand & Foot Beauty (manicure, pedicure, artificial nails) L I.A. Gel Polish Professional Make-up B E Red Vein Removal A U T Hilary Corbet ITEC, CIDESCO, C.I.E.L., I.A. Y Telephone: (01555) 892136 Mobile: 07850 167 402

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