Tue 20th sept Day 24

 After a relaxed morning we dropped into the Slotted Spoon Cafe for lunch, which included giant iced coffee and a turmeric Latte. 

Then a visit to Grandma and Grandpa.

At the nursing home there was a Covid test and temperature check for all, and masks for the public areas. Through the foyer, there is a central area for dining and activities, flanked by the two main wings. Entrances to resident’s rooms open to the internal courtyard from both sides, a strip of garden beds separates the building. The open plan and close proximity means there’s a community feel, rather than separated layouts at some aged care facilities.

We collect Grandpa, he’s surprised to have visitors but reflexively prepared to launch his walker for the short journey to Grandma’s. Grandpa offers Sasha a ride on the seat part of his walking frame, however, a passing staff member gently chides him, warning us off trying with a look. 

Grandma's room has a similar view of a garden, though with the addition of a magpie statue among the shrubs outside. Inside there is a kitchenette and small lounge area. Some family photos and a bookshelf help make it feel homely.

 

Sasha was much like many kids in a nursing home - it's a strange environment, and he acted warily, but was also very curious about the place. Nastya was happy to be out and about and meeting new people. We will be back again before we leave Atherton. 

When the afternoon tea bell rang we walked with them to get a selfie, and they both entered the lunch room through separate doors. 

 

We prepared  Yotam Ottolenghi’s Whole Roasted Cauliflower with pomegranate and crunchy things salad for dinner with Kai and Maerey, one of our favourite vegetarian feasts of recent times.