If you have a loved one living in a nursing or personal care home, you may find it difficult to decide what type of gift would be most meaningful, useful and appreciated. Below are some ideas to make your holiday shopping a little easier:

• Artwork made with love by grandchildren or great-grandchildren
• Books - in large print, on tape or on CD
• Clothing or pillow cases personalized with pictures of loved ones
• Crossword puzzles in large print
• Digital picture frame - filled with both old and recent pictures of family members and friends
• Favorite food items (check with the staff to make sure the resident is not on a restricted diet). Or, better yet - take your loved one out to eat!
• Games - playing cards, checkers or other favorites
• Gift certificate to get hair/nails done or for a massage
• Greeting cards of all types, along with stamps and writing utensils
• Magnifying glass
• Music - from their genre, or live in person if you can play an instrument or sing
• Pajamas - soft and easy to put on/take off
• Portable CD player with ear phones or an MP3 player (you may need to provide instructions on how to use it)
• Slippers or non-skid socks
• Subscription to a newspaper or magazine (preferably in large print)
• Sweat suits or sweaters
• Videos on topics of special interest
• Warm, comfortable blanket or lap robe
• Wheelchair/walker bag

Put yourself in your loved one's shoes. What would you want more than anything? Likely the answer is love! Nothing can replace a meaningful visit, precious time spent together, either individually, with grandchildren, a pet, neighbor or old friend. Call the home and see if you can reserve a room for a special gathering. Most importantly, just visit and enjoy time together!

Despite the difficult economic times worldwide and the tightening of many wallets, at the 115th Grand Session "All Things Bright and Beautiful," Order of the Eastern Star members presented the largest donation they have ever given to the Masonic Villages: $150,908.98.

Bro. William C. Davis, Jr., COO-Health Care Services, who received the generous contribution on behalf of the Masonic Villages, thanked Past Worthy Grand Matron Mary Ann Naugle and Past Worthy Grand Patron Clarence Echternacht and members of the Order of the Eastern Star for their many hours spent fund-raising. The funds will be distributed to four of the Masonic Village locations as directed by Eastern Star and will be used to purchase the following items as well as additional future needs for each of the Masonic Villages:

It is through the generosity of all our donors that Masonic Villages is able to carry out its Mission of Love. Thank you again, Order of the Eastern Star!

Fresh Local Produce Masonic Village Farm Market A Great gift! Shipped anywhere in the U.S.