The Colchester Saxophone Quartet visited early October. It was so uplifting to hear a live orchestra playing everything from Beethoven’s Fleur De Lis to Danny Boy and When the Saints go Marching in.
To coincide with The Great British Bake Off Final, we hosted our own Abberton Bake Off! The lovely Christina from FANS (Friend and Neighbours Network) came to be our judge alongside our residents. Boy was it a difficult one - so many tasty and beautifully made cakes. Sylvia was the winner of The Abberton Bake Off spoon and trophy ( a very sought after prize!) Congratulations and thank you to everyone who took the time to bake. Then for those who were not able to come downstairs , Tracey and Christina took the cake trolley round to everyone to enjoy cake in their rooms.
We also transformed our lounge into The Abberton Arms. Residents chose their favourite tipples from the bar, with bar snacks and pub games including Shut the Box, Pub Skittles, draughts and cards. Nobody wanted to leave when last orders was called! Tracey and Sarah also too Alex to the Hare and Hounds where he enjoyed a pub lunch and a couple of drinks !
The wonderful Alex Southgate entertained our residents with some great tunes. Tracey, our Lifestyle and Wellbeing lead, also had a sing along with residents, encouraging them to suggest songs and getting everyone involved. Gunni from Kiddleydivey visited for seated chair exercise and brought pom poms and bubbles. We have enjoyed film club with Oklahoma, popcorn and sweet.
We have continued our Access to Fresh Air Initiative into the Autumn in spite of the mixed bag of weather. Lovely to have a stroll around the grounds and collect autumn leaves for crafting projects.
Residents wrote a poem together about their lives at Abberton. It is so beautiful, we hope you agree.
The children from Langenhoe school came in for bonfire hot chocolates and treats. Residents have been making poppies for Remembrance. We had a fabulous talk from the British Airborne Forces and a special Remembrance Church service with Rev. Terry Walker.
Coming up all our festive plans
In November, we have entertainment from Alison Jennings Music and Alex Southgate and musical moments with Libby. Plus a visit form the Colchester Brass Band.
The children from Langenhoe school are visiting and crafts. We are having an afternoon tea for friends and family, a jam and chutney taster session and The Abberton Arms will be open once again. In-between times, we will be preparing the decorations for Christmas to create a spectacular Christmassy feel at Abberton Manor.
In December, we will be decorating Abberton Manor ready for the festive celebrations and we have many activities booked including
* Christmas Crafts; making Christmas cards and paper chains and art therapy with Liana making nostalgic Christmas decorations - peg dolly angels.
* Christmas baking of gingerbread men and Chocolate Fountain treats.
* School Children visiting.
* our Advent Service.
* Alex Southgate, make with some festive songs
* Kiddleydivey with Gunni.
* Christmas Film Afternoons.
* Christmas Carol Singalong and Mince Pies,.
* Festive celebrations at the Abberton Arms.
* Christmas Day Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and present opening.
* A Singalong with Tracey on Boxing Day
* and a New Years Eve Party to end the year.