Once all of the decorations were up, the music started and the abuelos started dancing, at least the ones who were pretty mobile. It was great to see the abuelos get excited over the music and other festivities. I went over to dance with one of my favorite abuelos, Manuel. He doesn't talk much but he has the biggest smile that just brightens up my day. I wasn't allowed to get him out of his wheelchair and so, all of our dancing was restricted to arm movements in the chair. He was just smiling and laughing the whole time, which made me smile and laugh along with him. I then realized that he was singing along to the songs that the band was playing too! I ended up dancing with him for 10 or 15 minutes, partially because he wouldn't let go of my hand, which was perfectly okay because I loved dancing with him.
After dancing with Manuel, I danced with a few of the other abuelos. Some of the older volunteers were trying to teach me and the other 2 volunteers I work with how to do some of the Tico dances. It was pretty difficult for us because we don't really dance the same way in the United States but it was still a lot of fun. We all ended up dancing for about an hour and a half. Once everyone applauded for the band, presents were given to both the abuelos who had birthdays in June and to all the fathers in Hogar de Ancianos. It was really nice to see how well the abuelos were being treated at the retirement home. I know that's a really hard decision to put parents in a home like this but it was comforting to see that they were being treated well. After the party, there was special food brought for lunch for all of the abuelos and the employees! The party was a complete success and it also gave another reason why I would want to work with this age group in the future.
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