 |
| Tracey from Campbell's Flowers demonstrates |
Even though we’re hurtling towards Christmas, it’s the start
of the new year for Seven Hills WI! We’ve entered our fifth year (I know, I can
scarcely believe it either) and that means that the third Thursday in November
saw us hold our Annual Meeting. It also saw members queuing in droves to renew
their membership. We began the meeting by naming those members interested in
taking up committee roles – and much to the relief of our willing volunteers, there were no objections!
Exciting news about our all our upcoming events, including
the fabulous-sounding Christmas party followed. We also heard that our charity calendars are selling like hot cakes which was fitting since Robin Jeeps, trustee of our
chosen charity, came along. Robin was kind enough to share with us why PACT is so important to him and to other parents whose children have battled with
cancer, as members listened attentively. Then our photographer, Laura
Bainbridge, snapped away as he accepted a cheque for the money we’ve raised so
far this year.
 |
| Kim, Vicky and Jen give Robin from PACT our cheque |
In our looking back at the past twelve months, we remembered our meetings, outings and first sighting of the helter skelter at Electric Works! Then, all the women in the room stood and joined in for that great WI tradition – a rousing rendition of Jerusalem.
Next, Tracey from Campbell’s Flowers was introduced and explained that she’d be showing us how to complete a
hand-tied bouquet, before giving us all the opportunity to make our own wrist
corsage. The room hushed to complete silence. Believe me, this
could-have-heard-a-pin-drop atmosphere is a rare occurrence at SHWI and a blatant
sign that we were utterly engrossed as we watched Tracey work. The result was a
natural-looking, vintage-inspired bouquet of seasonal flowers – and a round of
applause for Tracey. The lucky winner of our raffle got to take the bouquet
home, but none of us went empty handed. We had a demo on how to make a simple-looking
wrist corsage, followed by Tracey and her daughter dishing out flowers and
ribbons so that each of us could have a go. Some women were undoubtedly
naturals, whilst others (me included) could probably do with a tincy bit more
practice.
 |
| Our members make some lovely wrist corsages |
As we all prepared to head out, adorned with our corsages,
we were reminded that next month, people on the waiting list can also sign up
for membership next year. It’s a meeting not to be missed - and not just
because of Secret Santa or President Lindsay’s infamous annual quiz. WI member
and force to be reckoned with, Liz Mellors, joins us to talk about the
award-winning women’s development programme, Springboard.
Right, I’m off to write my Christmas card list….
Jennifer (Vice President)
