Leigh-on-Mendip WI

 

February brings us the hope of Spring.  Lighter afternoons and seeing many snowdrops and a few early daffodils.  Certainly raises the spirits.  On the 14^th many people celebrate Valentine's Day with loved ones and friends.  At our meeting on the 13^th we encouraged members to wear something red as we were supporting the British Heart foundation.  Everyone was given a cardboard red heart on which they could write a message.  It was lovely that so many ladies from other WIs were able to join us.

Our Speaker was Keith Lodwick.  He started with a brief outline of his career before taking up the role of a Curator at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.  A 'behind the scenes' view was really interesting and learning about how long it takes to make the contacts and acquire permissions to borrow the items they wish to display.  He focussed on the Hollywood Exhibition, which had a record ¼ million visitors over 14 weeks when the museum was open 24 hours.  It was also an opportunity for us to see pictures of some of the clothes worn by unforgettable characters such as Dorothy Gale in the Wizard of Oz, Indiana Hones, Scarlett O'Hara and Darth Vader.  He has also contributed to the forthcoming Diva to coincide with the V&A exhibition in June.

Members were reminded that we have a Bursary available for Educational courses.  One of our members is going next month to learn about bag making and will come back to share with others who are interested what she has learned.  The County Easter Craft Taster Day at Draycott on 4 March will now be for just 2 choices of activities but they can be booked in advance. Several members were interested.  Booked on a first come first served basis.

We were reminded that Annual Subs are due at the beginning of April.  Members were asked to bring £40 (or arrange to make payment).  This is a reduction of £6 (for this year only) as the funds we hold have allowed for this decision to be made and voted on by all those who were present.

Lunch at The Bell was supported by some of our members on Wednesday 15^th.  Why not give it a try – we meet on the third Wednesday of every month.

And a date for your diaries (not just WI members!!).  Village Litter Pick on Saturday 11 March, 2-4pm.  Meet at the Village Hall.  Refreshments provided afterwards. Last year it was lovely to see whole families involved in tidying our lovely village and making it a nicer place to live.

We were reminded of the Community Survey that will take place in February.  This is your chance to have your say about what it is to live here and how you might like to see what the future can bring.

If you would like to find out more about our WI please come along to the Village Hall on the second Monday of the month at 7.30pm or contact Caroline Harris on 01373 812889.