Residents of The Gardens in Qualicum Beach are feeling festive. There is no shortage of baubles and holly at the seniors complex, after many of the residents participated in the first annual door decorating contest.
Social co-ordinator Surjit Jhaj said residents and their families were encouraged to make some memories together and decorate the outside of their doors for Christmas.
Over 50 residents got creative. On Dec. 15, judges visited every door. They took several factors into consideration, including originality and quality of construction. Each entry chose a theme. With winter wonderlands and chocolaty Christmas door designs among the amazing entries it was hard for the judges as they scored each door. After all the marks were added up, the winners were declared. First prize went to Helen Castle for her door called The Gift of Family. Second prize was awarded to Connie Dean for Christmas Stocking while the third prize winner was Rose Hall with Waiting for Santa to Come.
The Gardens offers several lifestyle options including independent living rental suites, condominiums for ownership, assisted living, complex care, respite and palliative care.
Jhaj said all residents were asked to take part in the contest and those who had mobility and other issues had assistance from their families. He said they hope to turn the contest into an annual event.