"All nine of us children have done something with our lives," said Fahnestock, who visits the home regularly to chat with the residents, particularly on holidays. "I dress up as a leprechaun on St. Patrick's Day."
"I started six years ago when I had a friend who was put out here, and she died four years ago," Fahnestock said.
Fahnestock continued to come back, becoming a regular at the home's Tuesday Coffee Club, talking with residents about recipes, grandchildren and life.
"I just like people and I like to talk," said Fahnestock, who wore shoes that lighted up as she walked.
Fahnestock remembered conversations with a woman in her 90s, a retired nurse who enjoyed talking about all the babies she had helped deliver.
"She's got the personality and the get up and go," Gardner said. "She's a gem and she's very giving."
On this day, Fahnestock was giving resident Julie Morrill a small lighted Christmas tree for her room. She also brought with her a snowman, cards, calendars, night lights and other small gifts to pass out to residents.
The gifts help personalize the residents' rooms, said Sabrina Wiley, the center's activities director.
On a more practical note, Fahnestock said she earlier had purchased dozens of pairs of socks on sale, knowing the people living in the center could use them.
"You get such a good feeling when you're out there with the people," Fahnestock said. "It makes you thankful for what you have, not what you don't have."
Sunday: Lisa Startzman of Hagerstown.
