Volunteer teaches bracelet making

It was an hour of fun and talking for those who attended one of the Mission at Castle Rock Convalescent Center's craft programs.

On Friday morning, about six residents were painting their nails, having someone paint them or making their own beaded bracelets. Some did both.

Kathy Elliott, a volunteer who runs a craft program about every Friday, has been volunteering to host a craft time.

"I got so attached to people when my mom was here that I just couldn't stay away," Elliott said.

Elliott always has something different for the residents to try. Friday was no different and they were making safety-pin bracelets. 

First, the residents picked out what color of beads they wanted. Elliott has a huge collection of beads she has picked up from various craft stores over the years. Once the resident has a color selected, they start putting the beads on a safety pin. It was taking about 25 to 35 safety pins full of beads to complete the task.

As soon as enough safety pins were completed, Elliott helped them string the beads with elastic cord. This allows the bracelet to be put on and taken off with ease.

When picking out crafts or baking projects for the residents to participate in, Elliott takes to craft books or the Internet.

Sometimes she finds the best projects out of desperation. Elliott said there has been times were it is the night before and she hasn't figured out what they are going to do. No matter when she comes up with a project, the residents seem to enjoy it.

"I try to find things that they can make themselves with minimal assistance," she said.

In the past, the residents have made beaded necklaces with elastic ties. Elliott said they just make them long enough so they can slip them over their heads.

If a resident is unable to string the bead necklaces themselves, that is not a problem. Elliott will have them pick out what beads and order they want the beads in. They can lay the beads out on a bead tray. She will put the stings through and tie it for them.

"It's entertainment and something different," she said.

Those who were not working on a bead project painted their nails and visited. Kathleen Mallorie was one of these. She painted her nails and when done she watched the others make their bead necklaces. When she found out the staff was going to sort through the nail polish, she volunteered to do it for them. She spent her time shaking the polish, and looking at it to see it is was dried out or not. Mallorie then sorted the nail polish into various color pallets.

"I'm just playing and I enjoy playing," Mallorie said. "I really don't do nothing but play."