BONNERS FERRY — Residents at the Boundary County Restorium were showered with cards, treats and music this Valentine’s Day, thanks to a community-wide effort sparked by one local woman’s wish to create moments of joy for the residents. 

Carolyn Birrell, who began visiting the Restorium in 2015 when her mother lived there, said the idea grew out of those afternoons spent finding ways to connect. 

“My afternoons with her became a challenge to find things to entertain her and naturally the whole common room joined in,” Birrell said. “We did nails, I played poor ukulele and we talked about their early lives. So many lost sweethearts and missing their families. And Valentine’s Day is for lovers, right?” 

Remembering the excitement of opening Valentine envelopes in school, Birrell said she wanted to recreate that experience for residents, the anticipation, the surprise and the simple feeling of being remembered. 

“They may not remember it next week, but they did that day,” she said. 

The effort quickly grew beyond a single idea as the community pitched in to support the local Restorium residents.  

Kelly Hinthorn’s sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade leadership class assembled Valentine packets that were filled with donated cards, treats and small gifts contributed by community members.  

Restorium activities coordinator Crystal Nelson said the day left residents feeling deeply appreciated. 

“We had a great Valentine’s Day at the Restorium,” Nelson said. “We felt very spoiled and loved.” 

In addition to cards and gift packets, residents received flowers, cookies, candy, and stuffed animals. The Bonners Ferry High School pep band also visited and performed, bringing live music and energy to the celebration. 

Nelson extended appreciation to the many individuals and groups who participated. 

“Thank you to all the community members that brought us stuff to make us feel so special,” she said. 

    Valentine's Day gifts made and donated by the community for residents of the Boundary County Community Restorium.

    Valentine's Day at the Boundary County Community Restorium.
  

    Valentine's Day at the Boundary County Community Restorium.
  

    Valentine's Day gifts made and donated by the community for residents of the Boundary County Community Restorium.