The last year has been quite out of the ordinary. Smiles have been replaced with masks, visits with Zoom calls and hugs with social distancing. The extra work required by the team to keep us safe has not gone unnoticed by either us, the residents, our families or the wonderful management team here at Timken Grange. When we clapped our hands on a Thursday night, we really meant it. 
The team here are so creative, they have provided so many fun activities to keep us entertained and to take our minds off the troubles created by this pandemic. It has been a scary time for all of us and they have carried the shoulder of responsibility, not just for our safety but also for themselves and their families. We will be eternally grateful. 
It is lovely to be part of this extended family and so lovely to see that the management value the team as much as we do. This week the manager arranged a special treat for everyone. There was much excitement when, to our surprise “The Crepe Stop” van pulled into Timken Grange. We are truly spoiled here in the sweet treats department; however it is not every day that a van rolls up and rustles up fresh pancakes in the car park.
There were so many to choose from; Biscoff Crumble & Caramel, Belgium Chocolate, Nutella, there were even savoury options too. We all settled down together to tuck in, the atmosphere in that room was joyful. The crepes were so delicious, some of us even headed back outside for seconds. Whilst eating, I overheard a couple of the team stating over and over how amazing this was, they really were quite taken aback by the surprise, and you could see how happy it had made them and what it meant to them to feel so valued. It made us smile to see them enjoying such a thoughtful treat, so well deserved. 
Rumour has it that is just one of many treats Halcyon has in store for the team. We are excited to find out what the next one will be. 
Daniel, the managing director told us “Our team have been outstanding throughout the past year, they have stepped up to every challenge thrown their way and done it all with a smile, albeit hidden behind a mask. This is our way of saying thank you and of ensuring that they know that it has not gone unnoticed. And yes, the rumours are true, we do have many more treats in store but we are not going to ruin the surprise, just watch this space…”