Christmas in July a way to beat the heat

Twinkling strings of lights hung in the activities room at Sanctuary of the Ohio Valley as residents sat patiently awaiting a special visitor.

A half-sized Christmas tree atop one of the tables seemed a strange sight for this time of year, carols playing in the background.

But it was all just a fun way to beat the rising summer temperatures, said Debbie Osborne, activities director.

“It’s been so hot,” Osborne said. “We’ve been going out on the porch to drink lemonade.”

Osborne said that’s when she came up with the idea to celebrate Christmas in July.

“The residents said, ‘That activities director, she’s crazy,’” Osborne said. “But they have really enjoyed it. … The families have been really involved in this too.”

For an entire week, the Sanctuary’s residents sang Christmas carols, played holiday games, decorated and opened gifts.

And Thursday, the residents got a visit from the jolly man himself.

“Santa has been in Hawaii and he’s coming to visit,” Osborne said.

But rather than a fur-trimmed red suit, Santa was decked out in a white short-sleeved shirt, cargo shorts and red sneakers. Of course, the curly white beard was as long as ever and a red hat topped the man’s head.

Santa also sported a summertime physique, not quite the bowl fully of jelly the man is known for.

His explaination?

“I don’t eat as many cookies during the summer,” he said.

Santa handed out colorful Hawaiian leis to each resident and as he prepared to depart, promised to visit again during the holidays.

“I have to finish up my vacation and start making all the toys. I’ll be back to see everyone in December.”