Bonnie, a Mansion staffer, tore up the dance floor and won a prize from the dee jay on duty. Peggie, who tires easily, joined in with her, dancing until she turned pale and everyone said enough was enough. She wanted to go much further. The faces of the residents really got to me, there was so much joy in them.

Their lives at the Mansion are by no means miserable, but they are often disconnected from the outside world, and I see how healthy and important it is for them to get out and explore the world around them. The next trip I’m plotting is a ride to the top of Mount Equinox, with some stops for cider and autumn leaf loving near Manchester, Vt.

Everyone seemed to like the idea. The boat ride has really got me excited about planning more trips, assuming the staff approves.