It’s hard to believe that I am already writing this last update of 2024. It has been quite a year with ups and downs but as we approach the Festive season let’s all focus on the ups and good things that have happened.
By the time you read this, the electrical refit in Cresswell House will have been completed and once again my thanks go to all the WI’s who gave so generously to our appeal to get this work done. Our diaries this year have been filled with wonderful WI events courtesy of our various committees. We have learnt new sewing and floristry skills, watched mouthwatering demonstrations, experienced new games (the fabulous jigsaw competition) and handled items as old as the pyramids and that’s all before we get to the Federation quiz and Literary lunch along with our Annual Council Meeting and the Celebration of Christmas this month.
Our Membership Support team have been there for us all and have had the pleasure of opening two new WIs, West Moor Rockets and Summerhill. I hope you ladies have enjoyed being part of this Federation and all that it has to offer you.
For those who attended the National Annual Meeting at The Royal Albert Hall this will no doubt be a stand out moment for you as it really was such a wonderful experience.
I have, as usual been out and about recently going to Cullercoats to help celebrate their 30th birthday and winning a prize in the reverse bingo, but if you want to know why that was funny you need to see me or any member from Cullercoats who will tell you about my giraffe prize!. Twenty Five years after the original Calendar Girls bared all, Rothbury WI have done likewise and I had the pleasure of presenting individual photographs to those taking part. Proceeds from the Rothbury WI Calendar are going to their local hospice. I have bought mine ready to put up on 1stJanuary and I know it will put a smile on my face having heard all about the ‘behind the scene stories’ (pun intended!) such as; keeping warm, standing in a river and seeing the Northern Lights. Well done ladies.
I also hope to call in to Hepscott’s Christmas Fair and the one at Pegswood with Bothal so I had better call at the cash machine as I am bound to see something that I just need to have.
We all know that this time of year can be a very lonely and difficult time for so many people so please remember to always show patience and kindness as none of us really know what is troubling even those we think we know. I overheard a lady of a similar age to me (I am guessing here) at Silverlink Shopping Centre this week say to the young lady with her, “ you need to be a little bit more thoughtful and kinder when you speak to people “. how right she was, so let’s all try to live up to that lady and don’t forget that a trouble shared really is a trouble halved.
I wish you, your families, friends and anyone else who may read this all the joy and friendship of the season and peace and health for 2025.
Marj x
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