A quick glimpse at the monthly newsletter written by the Saucon Valley residents speaks volumes. In just one short month, their community calendar is chockful of social gatherings, community service endeavors, intellectual pursuits and the formation of new committees and groups.
The calendars for December and January leave little down time! “First Fridays” feature a once a month “sandwich happy hour” at the Clubhouse. In December, the First Friday will comprise a Clubhouse decorating party to kick off the holiday season. Mid-December features the residents’ annual Holiday party. This year’s theme is the “Ugly Sweater” party where there is sure to be an amusing display of tacky woolen heirlooms to make for some hilarious photo opportunities. For the competitive party-goer, a prize will be awarded for the ugliest sweater. Plus, prior to the party, the residents have planned their second annual cookie exchange!
Also planned for December is the first annual Luminaria Night, an enchanting evening when neighbors will come together to line the streets with luminaria – white bags with votive candles glowing softly inside and sing carols. For the Saucon Valley residents, the lights lining the streets are a symbol of unity and caring for those less fortunate. The proceeds from the sale of the luminaria will be donated to New Bethany Ministries, a local organization that provides shelters and permanent housing for homeless families, along with daily meals.
Just in time for the colder weather, January features the second annual Soup Cookoff, followed by the Super Bowl party in early February. And, it seems as though it’s never too early to think about spring! The new “Down to Earth Garden Club” has scheduled its first meeting for early March! The club will maintain a list of garden equipment which residents can borrow from one another, and they are planning field trips and speakers to nurture that green thumb.
If a monthly book club isn’t enough, the residents have also organized a “Write Your Memoir” writing class with the help of a writing coach and facilitator from Northampton Community College. According to the group’s organizers: “by seeing your life through the lens of story, you can make sense of mysterious parts of yourself, learn how one thing led to another, and exercise your verbal mind with the invigorating practice of story writing.” In addition, story-writing builds community and connects neighbors in new and unique ways. We are proud that Saucon Valley has undertaken such enriching, rewarding and FUN activities!
