Baywood Court Lights Up the Holidays
Baywood Court senior living center went all-out for its holiday celebration last week, giving the residents a welcome change after nearly two years of COVID-19 limitations. In pre-pandemic years, the center had a tree-lighting party, but this year they pulled out all the stops.
“It’s one of a kind,” said resident Julia Kruse. “I’ve lived at Baywood almost eight years. and we didn’t ever have this before. The people here really did a great job with the decorating, especially with all the lights, and there are a lot of activities.”
Residents and their families stepped out into the night air to enjoy horse and buggy rides, a huge lighted Christmas tree, live music by the Tinseltones, a crepe food truck, a photo booth with Santa, cookies, and hot chocolate — all outdoors. The movie “Elf” played on a giant screen.
Baywood Court’s President and CEO Matt Neal was pleased with the outcome.
“It’s been a tough couple of years, and we wanted to have something where everyone could celebrate the holidays safely outside,” he said.
Baywood’s Recreation Therapy Manager Monida Som said putting the event together was worth all the hard work that went into it.
“This was something special for the residents, their families, and the staff,” she said. “With Covid and all, it was nice to do something normal.”
Watching the residents enthusiastically climb into the horse-drawn carriage did indeed make the night seem special. Riders were carefully assisted by staff members and then driven through the parking lots at the front and back of the complex.
Next to the carriage stop was a huge inflatable “ice block” in which photos with Santa were taken. The Tinseltones singers inspired quite a few folks to dance in the driveway.
Matt Neal said this year the staff made a special effort to provide a night filled with festive activities for all ages.
“We’re so proud of our community’s resilience over the last couple of years and are so happy that we’re able to deliver everyone a huge dose of holiday cheer tonight,” he said.