Wednesday, April 21, 2010

My Little Olds

I've been hanging out at a senior center for the past four months. At first it was a school assignment...four of us taught an exercise class. But we ended up hanging out more than we taught. Today was our last day and the seniors decorated the center with thank you balloons and made us cards. We even managed to squeeze in one last game of balloon volleyball.We ended up growing quite fond of our little olds and they were not at all thrilled at the prospect of us leaving. Two of the girls in our group are from Ireland so they're pretty much leaving for good. I think I'll visit a bit though. On our last day they gave us all hugs and kisses and were a bit weepy. It was harder to leave them than I thought it would be.
I was surprised to find how attached we grew to this group after only four months. Last night, one of our elderly ladies passed away. They all knew she had terminal cancer but nobody told us. She gave us little ceramics to paint with her. She was adorable. It kind of put a damper on things but also helped put life in perspective.
I'm gonna miss these guys. This was such an awesome experience. I recommend volunteering with seniors in your area. They really need people to talk to and are rather hilarious.

4 comments:

Unknown said...

Haha! I just got a closer look at the last picture and realized I'm pastier than most of the seniors. I need to get outside!

*Aliese* said...

How super cute! I love that they threw you guys a little party. Don't worry about your pastiness...I would easily have you beat. PROMISE.

Hailey Jones said...

dearest jen.
so sad about the oldie. i love the oldies i volunteered with in wisconsin. really. when my nana died i went to visit them.
but i am mostly going to miss YOU more than these oldies. kay family vaca to texas. please.

Amy and Mike said...

I worked in activities at an Assisted Living Center for a year and it was the most fun job. What a great experience. You really do get attached. What wonderful people you have had an opportunity to meet.