On January 19, I visited and asked Connie if she needed anything. Her request was simple—a pencil sharpener and a #6 pencil because she loves to sketch. I was happy to get those for her, along with a sketch pad and a small pencil box. During my visit, I also learned that Daniel needed t-shirts, and Martha and Karl each wanted a hand cross.

When it was time to deliver the gifts, I wasn’t feeling well, so my dear friend and coworker, Barbara H., kindly stepped in to make the deliveries for me. Here’s what Barbara shared about her visit:

• Connie had moved to a new room, and she was overjoyed to receive a card—she said no one had ever given her one before. Her excitement was priceless.
• Daniel was at lunch when Barbara arrived, but he was so happy to see her and thrilled about his new shirts. A nurse helped put them away for him.
• Martha and Karl both loved their hand crosses. Karl especially appreciated that Joe made his for him, making it even more special. Karl had the fingernails of one hand-painted blue and the other pink! When asked how that happened, he laughed and said, “Eight ladies held me down and did it!” He’s quite the character!
• Bandit, Barbara’s dog, was a hit! Everyone was happy to see him, bringing smiles to their faces.
• Jim was struggling, feeling down after losing his wife, and hadn’t eaten breakfast. Barbara spent time talking with him, and by the time she left, he was eating again.
• Abigail was beyond excited to have her nails painted. She chose bright red and shared all kinds of stories while Barbara did her nails.

Moments like these remind us that even small gestures—pencils, t-shirts, a cross, a card, a conversation—can bring so much joy and comfort.

Thank you, Barbara, for delivering these gifts and sharing these beautiful moments with us!