Today’s Mansion outing was us, a trip to Bedlam Farm for those who could navigate the yard and the grass. We had five residents show up – Bob, Jean, Peggie, Barb and Winnie. They had never seen Red work before, and were stunned watching him herd the sheep, it was a side of him they had never seen.

They loved Fate, who jumped all over them and showered them with kisses, and couldn’t believe it when Gus sat up on Fanny’s back. (They were crazy about Gus.)  It was a beautiful, crisp Fall day. Then they spent an hour inside Maria’s studio making leaf drawing pennants for   a pennant she will put together for the Mansion. They are all coming back to see the Open House October 7-8, they are our honored guests.

The visit had a great feel to it, they needed some help walking up and down the slope in the back and getting in the studio. Gail, one of the activity director’s was close by to help out. During the drawing (photo coming) the talked and laughed and peppered us with questions.

They all said it was so good to get outside, to move around, to be in the fresh air, to get away from television screens and see different thing. They were all funny, joking, excited, full of stories. Outings are so important for these people, and I am excited to have $1,000 in revenues from their book “Tales Of The Mansion” to use for special occasions and outings.

We hope to have them visit us often. I’ve proposed using some of that money to pay for a catered special dinner during Thanksgiving week to celebrate Thanksgiving and the arrival of the holidays. (Decorations and favors would be welcome – The Mansion, 11 S. Union Avenue, Cambridge, N.Y.)

I hope to find a theater that could accommodate a small group, and go to Albany for the annual Christmas lights decrations.

And I hope they come to see us often, it was great fun.