Zinnia and I went to the Mansion’s Memory Care Unit with a big sack of stuffed animals I’ve been collected at consignment and thrift shops. There were smiles everywhere Zinnia went and smiles for the stuffed dogs, cats, pandas, and rabbits I brought.

Except for Betsy (below), a new Memory Care resident and a passionate Elvis Presley fan, everyone wanted a stuffed animal.

Betsy wanted Zinnia and me to see her Elvis memorabilia – a shower curtain, a closet full of Elvis sweatshirts, an Elvis blanket, and an Elvis carpet. She invited Zinnia to come onto her bed to look closely. Zinnia obliged but then went to sleep.

I love my Memory Care visits. Tomorrow is a meditation class in the morning. I’ve got a bag of beautiful vintage bracelets to hand out. The residents are getting to know me, smiling at me, and talking to me. Betsy has a strong memory of Elvis.

Jane, above, is a gifted artist who paints every morning. She also loves popsicles. I am, as always, touched by the care, affection, and patients shown to the residents.

The rest of the photos speak for themselves. I love the smiles, warmth, and joy these stuffed animals bring.

Betsy and her Elvis blanket.