(Editor’s Note: The following article was submitted by Jodie Fontenot, assistant resident activity director at Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Ville Platte. This column runs every Sunday in The Gazette.)

Spring is here, but with the weather being so unpredictable, it doesn't look like winter wants to end.

The days have been so pleasant (when it is not raining) that the residents have been sitting outside enjoying the sunshine. Resident Alcide Ortego, who will turn 101 next month, still works in his garden. The other day, I went to look at it and his plants are beautiful. He has tomatoes on his tomato plants, flowers on his pepper plants and radishes that look like they are ready to be picked. He also has cucumber and cantaloupe plants. I really do admire Mr. Alcide. He is very active for his age and he is very proud of his garden.

Being in the sunshine not only feels nice, but it is the most natural form of Vitamin C a person can get, so it is good for you too. However, don't get too much sun because you could get a sun burn, which is not healthy.

At this time of the year, my family usually starts fishing. We've done our best catching in April and May. Now, I've not had a chance to go yet (on my days off lately it has done nothing but rain) so I can't wait until I get to go.

My three children all like to fish as well. My two daughters love to fish as much as my son, so that is one thing we all agreed upon.

I hope every family can agree on an outdoor activity they can do together. It helps to bring sharing and closeness to a family.

So, to all of the readers from the residents and staff of Heritage Manor, we hope you have a happy spring and we hope you get a chance to enjoy the sunshine.

Monique Jack was the volunteer this week.

Bingo sponsors were Blake's Family Hair and Gifts, LaVille Funeral Home and Blake's Southside Pharmacy.