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There wasn’t so much in our diaries for this month, but nevertheless we were all still busy.
Our book club met on the first Wednesday to discuss their second book choice – Magpie by Elizabeth Day. Whilst not many of us enjoyed the book, we did discuss in depth the various topics involved; mental health, infertility, rape and how “mothers-in-law” are often stereotypically depicted in fiction. This certainly provoked a reaction! Experiences of having one, and being one, were shared amongst the group, however, what happens at Book Club stays with Book Club.
Our walking group was sadly down to three – many members had family commitments in the lead-up to Christmas as well as some being poorly. The weather forecast wasn’t optimistic either. However, the three walkers were rewarded with a respite in the weather, as they managed to do just under three miles around Anna Valley & Upper Clatford without getting wet. As they returned to Kingsmead, for a welcome cup of coffee, there in the sky was a glorious rainbow. We did feel virtuous.
Next on our calendars was our Christmas Party. Members were invited to come along wearing something festive, bringing a plate of food to share for a buffet supper. As usual no-one disappointed. There was plenty to eat and drink as always. We arrived to the sound of music as Phil Farlow (husband of member Edwina) had kindly brought along his wind-up gramophone and a selection of vinyl records from the 1940s and 50s. The committee had also booked the Land Girls to entertain us first. Helen Golding and Pippa Thurgood came along as Betty & Joan to entertain the troops with a selection of war time songs (way before our time of course) as well as some festive favourites. Despite being too young to remember it was funny how many of us were able to join in and sing along. Two of our members, sisters Julie & Lynda, were particularly word perfect. Committee; make a note for next year! It was indeed a fun evening.
As always, these evenings don’t just happen, our committee members work hard behind the scenes and turn-up early to set things up.
A collection in lieu of sending Christmas Cards raised £75.85 which was donated to Finding Freedom from Abuse (formerly Andover Crisis Centre). When it was delivered the following day, it was accepted with much appreciation.
Our post-Christmas lunch will now be on 20th January and will be at The Abbotts Mitre in Chilbolton. If you wish to attend, please make sure you have made your menu selection and paid our treasurer. For further information please contact Lynne or Aileen.
Our first meeting of 2024 will be on 25th January and our guest speaker is Sandra Simmonds whose topic is Life under the Veil. Non-members welcome. Meetings start at 7.30 p.m. in the Village Hall. If you would like to meet us, but feel daunted to attend a meeting on your own, then perhaps you would like to come along and meet us at one of our coffee mornings. You will be warmly welcomed. See below for the date.
DIARY DATES:
03 January – Book Club – Dobbies Garden Centre 10.30 a.m.
11 January – Coffee Morning – Sports Pavilion at 10.30 a.m. (£2 to include refreshments) Non-members welcome
13 January – Walking Group
20 January – Post-Christmas Lunch -The Abbotts Mitre, Chilbolton
25 January – Monthly Meeting – Village Hall 7.30 p.m.
