Hi everyone! Hope you all had a wonderful week and were safe during all the snowy days and freezing nights.
Last week, Kym Barnett of Kym’s Plants and a SC Healthcare Auxiliary Halfmoon Bay member, very generously donated 14 small live potted Christmas trees to the second floor South residents at the Sechelt Hospital. This ward is designated to patients with Alzheimer’s. Kym also included decorations and lights for the trees. Kym shared, “I was told by my fellow co-chair, Mary Jackson, that patients’ memories are often stirred by touching, seeing, smelling items. I hoped that the trees, lights and ornaments would give them some joy at this time of year.” SCHA volunteers had a fabulous time helping the patients decorate these lovely little potted trees, which will be placed in their personal space beside their beds. Also, this past Tuesday, SCHA volunteers and members made and filled Christmas stockings for the patients of the Alzheimer’s ward. Another amazing act of kindness and incredible caring for those who need a little extra love this time of year. Thank-you Kym and to all the volunteers who helped bring smiles to many faces and warmed some hearts along the way.
The 2022 Halfmoon Bay Sail Pass on Saturday, Dec. 17 was a success! The weather cooperated with flat calm seas, no rain and even an amazing sunset! Prior to the event, the Secret Cove Marina provided hot chocolate and some folks brought cookies to share. From my vantage point on shore at Welcome Beach, eight beautifully decorated boats passed by with music playing, people singing and lots of joyful shouts both from shore and on the boats. The RCM-SAR12 (Halfmoon Bay) vessel was last in line with their brightly lit Rudolph nose. Spectator David said, “Thanks for going out in the cold and putting on the parade! A great evening view from Redrooffs!” and Garth shared, “Thanks to all of you who braved the seas tonight in the name of community Christmas spirit. Honestly, much appreciated! It made for an extra special night.” Organizer Lynn said, “We are going to have a ‘best decorated boat’ prize incentive for next year so hopefully there will be more participants.” Thank-you to all who participated! This truly is a wonderful Christmas community effort and brings so much pleasure to all on shore and on the boats.
Glen Smith, the Halfmoon Bay Elementary Community School principal shared, “On behalf of all of us at the school, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to our various donors who support our ‘Neighbours Helping Neighbours’ program. Your generous financial and material support allows us to provide additional food, clothing, toiletries and other supplies to various students and their families throughout the year.” This fundraiser organized by the Halfmoon Bay Community Association has raised close to $12,000 dollars this year! The board of directors would like to thank all those who donated so generously. What an awesome community!
This is my last Halfmoon Happenings column submission for 2022. As we close this year with unseasonable chilly and snowy weather, I wish you all a safe, peaceful and comfortable holiday season. I am very grateful to family, friends, neighbours and the community who provide support and encouragement throughout the year and in my life. Sending out well wishes and hope for the coming year, especially to two close family members who are struggling at this time. Be well everyone and I look forward to connecting with you in 2023. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Warm hugs...Cindy
