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Creativity and generosity abound at Real Living

Louise is one of the most talented residents at Epsom Village. Her grandmother taught her to knit when she was about five years old: "I remember my first effort was a pale lemon jersey for my teddy bear, complete with some “extra” holes!"

With a lifetime of practice now behind her, Louise has chosen to use her skill for a charitable purpose. She's been knitting baby outfits since 2016 and she donates them to Middlemore Hospital.

Louise's nephew is a surgeon at Middlemore Hospital and told her about the need for baby outfits that were made of good quality fabric and easy to wash.

Louise is one of the many residents at Epsom Village who has been sending much needed items to hospitals and charities. The Knitting group at the village has more than ten regular knitters and crochet ladies who send their items to several organisations, from The Red Cross to Auckland's City Mission. Les is one of her most gifted members and she has been creating homemade toys and Christmas decorations for 20 years.

Les' tree decorations are one of the highlights of Epsom Village's Market Day. Always a popular occasion, this year Market Day has been even more successful with all the residents keen to shop and socialise after so many months of lockdown.

Elaine's homemade cards are very popular. She creates Christmas cards but also birthday, "Get well soon" and even cards for the men in your life.
Christine's knitted cards were among the most gorgeous unique presents that the residents could buy to surprise family and friends.

Pakuranga Park's Market Day is also one of the most celebrated events at the village. From candles to leather goods, homemade jams and chutneys, unique masks and jewellery, there's nothing you cannot find at the village's shopping day.

Margaret's Christmas cakes are a legend at Pakuranga Park, with homemade elves and Santa Clauses that are as much a delight to see as they are to taste.

Pakuranga Park residents also donated all these beautiful Christmas Hampers and gifts to the Women's Refuge for them to give out this Christmas.

Real Living Villagers certainly haven't forgotten the true essence of Christmas: a time for giving.

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