Writing Challenge 2017 - In Celebration of Ten Years Together
We would like to thank all the members who submitted the following contributions:
"That time of the month”, long ago those words would fill my heart with gloom,
Now those words fill me with joy when I walk in the room,
There is Wendy at the door to greet us all by name
Young or old, short or tall, she treats us all the same
Wendy is our president, she really is the best,
WI, her job, her family, when does she ever rest!
There is the committee where lots of work is done
To make sure that we ladies all have lots of fun.
Book club, cinema or go out on your bike
If that doesn't seem your thing, how about a hike,
Or you can join a trip away, we travel far and wide,
I’m sure you will enjoy it with new friend s at your side.
Sometimes it's a demonstration and then we all join in,
Some of us are clever But some go I the bin!
Mostly it's a speaker we all sit quiet as mice
But when the speakers finished the tea and cakes are nice.
We always have a raffle to help to swell the coffers
If you win you can be sure nice prizes are on offer,
The things that I have spoken of are things that you can see,
But the friendship and the company mean the most to me
When you leave our meeting of one thing I am sure
You'll be feeling happier, than when you came through the door.
Barbara Death
Since joining the WI
Since joining the WI my underwear’s turned light blue after a speaker came to advise us on revamping our wardrobes, and the monthly meeting refreshments rota has prompted the much overdue purchase of a cake mixer!
My much loved, but dormant dressmaking and craft skills have been revived with new enthusiasm. I joined the MORS bags machinists, revisited cross-stitch, created a woven heart basket, produced plarn pom-poms and can talk for hours about the intricacies of bunting.
I‘ve got rather damp whilst kayaking on Macclesfield Canal, thoroughly enjoyed rambling around Cheshire’s countryside and cycled locally with the alternative ‘Tour de Wilmslow’. Alas, calories burned are rapidly replaced as black forest gateau crumbs confirm that yet again I’ve obligingly ‘paid tribute’ to another local teashop! There’s only one remedy…..another walk or cycle trip….
On three occasions I’ve joined a handful of ladies for a National WI Tea ‘n’ Tents camping weekend – the last couple involving a mere 500 or so other women. Girl Guider or not, this unique event brings all types of women together for a multitude of silly and serious workshops, experiences and entertainment. Uncharacteristically I even did my bit at the Speaker’s Corner on a topic close to my heart. Space prevents me from expanding on the vast programme, but suffice to say there was something there for everyone and my smile muscles were well tested, as was my opinion of what I previously considered to be an average WI member! Why not suck it and see?
I’ve experienced wonderful theatre, films, restaurant fare, not to mention days out and weekends away – all things I would rarely have done on my own steam. Oh, and did I mention being nudged into a 150 mile per hour wind tunnel whilst attempting to indoor sky-dive? Not very good for the hair, but great for the adrenaline and my Facebook page!
Life is often challenging and unpredictable and it is my observation that it is women who often climb steep hills daily to survive or help others. I haven’t got any answers, but I do know where you can get your batteries recharged.
There is a lovely mishmash of slightly mad, fun women who meet once a month at Fulshaw Primary School who’ve had enough life experiences between them to give any guru a run for their money. Our speakers and activities are great, but what I value most about the WI are the friendly inspiring souls who unconsciously support one another whether it be while creating a Twiddlemuff, dodging cowpats in a muddy field, learning a new skill, discussing the latest book or joining in the hysterical laughter on a day out. I think the WI inadvertently fulfils a multitude of purposes for each of us in a different way and I’m profoundly grateful for that, whether it’s served with traditional jam and Jerusalem or not!
Cathy Wallace
I wondered lonely as a...full time working mother of one.
That floats on high o'er.....not really having fun.
When all at last I saw a crowd....from Fulshaw, St Annes, WI.
Beside the bell.
Beneath the school
Fluttering and dancing....being remarkably cool.
Continous as the.....speakers that came.
And twinkle on the.....cakes thus slain
They stretched with never ending.....ideas
From unknown women, to inspirational peers.
100 saw I at a glance
Tossing their heads...with a bollywood dance.
The charities beside them came: and they
Out did the sparkling donations with glee.
The WI could not dismay
With such deserving company.
I gazed and gazed...at what joy they brought.
What health and wealth to others they support.
For oft, when moaning about work I lie.
In vacant and unhealthy mood
They flash the Fulshaw WI.
Which is the bliss of a wholesome brood
What friendship my heart with pleasure now fills
The bossom of my WI, daffodils.
Myra Ball
He walked slowly down the stairs into the kitchen, took the kettle to the tap and filled it. He switched it on and then went to the cupboard to find the cereal. She came into the kitchen, her arms filled with dirty laundry destined for the washing machine.
" Did you bring the milk in " she said as she poured powder into the slot of the washer. " No" he replied.
" It's Tuesday, the milk comes on Wednesday". She sighed and started towards the door. " I'll get it, it is Wednesday". When she came back into the kitchen, she saw him standing, ashen faced, staring straight ahead. Had he forgotton an important meeting? Had he missed an early train to London?
"Whatever's the matter? " she said quietly, worried he may keel over. He slumped into the chair. "But I'm wearing my Tuesday socks" he groaned.
Lis Fleming
The WI has given me wings and taught me to do some unusual things
We learned to dance in the Bollywood way graceful and clever and go with a sway
Read lots of books that I never would choose
Ended up loving some- some I would lose
Eating left overs delicious and fun
They're just as healthy when all said and done
Best of all is the Monday night meeting
Topical drinks are Dee's usual greeting
Talks that are varied, moving and sad
Some make us cry, some make us mad
Some are uplifting, tales to inspire
Some have us make jewelry with beads and with wire
Friends will greet us with a hug and a smile
We forget the worlds trouble and laugh for a while.
And don't forget Wendy witty and clever
Caring and quirkie we'll love her forever
The committee encourage us to sign up for treats
Get your name down quickly or you may lose your seat
Cinema, lunches, afternoon tea, walking and baking
and trips to the sea.
I'm lucky I know to belong to this lot
But we never forget that others are not
We try in a way that is quiet and is fair
to give help to others who need help and care
Sylvia Rose
My Life As President
It's 2014
With butterflies in my tummy
My speech begins
With thanks to the old President, Secretary and Treasurer too
They are all standing down for pastures new
My committee help me - Through this and that,
show me the ropes with cake and a chat
We laugh at the puppet man and gasp with delight
At the ones that are good - on the night
I organise paperwork, reply to the flow
Of enquiries through email
Facebook and so and so
We put out the chairs, welcome guests at the door
announce new events, and say a cheery hello
Point out the exits and the disabled loo
I introduce speakers and start to time too
Will they finish
Or need to be rushed
As there's cake to be eaten
It can be a push
It's raffle time let's draw the winner
Squeals of delight echoed by the winner
Final notices and a cheery good bye
With the end of the evening brings a sigh
It's then time to start clearing the floor
We stand round to natter and discuss how it flowed
Patting ourselves on the back at a night well spent
Before heading home we are all about spent
As we look at the ladies with smiles on their faces
With new skills or knowledge brings a smile to our faces
What will the month bring we think with glee
And will the next walk provide a coffee
Each month we meet up to prepare it again
To organise outings and who'll lend a hand
I'll attend most things with camera in tow
I know some people are in awe
But you know the best bit of my role as president
It that I get to meet people that are really decent
It's a great job to do and I’d recommend it
Because in no time at all that will be it
Wendy Morris
The fame of the Fulshaw WI
Is spreading far and wide.
Women will kill to go on the list
Waiting to get inside
When you're finally in the President
Will say hello to you.
She does prefer a curtsy
But a formal bow will do.
Then Dee will offer you a glass
Of something cold and bubbly.
You haven't a clue what it contains
But it's always rather lovely.
Lorna then welcomes all newbies
With a smile that's warm and inviting.
She'll introduce you to a friendly face
So your first visit's not too frightening.
The room appears so noisy
Full of news and gossip and chatter
Although there are serious matters ahead
Everyone loves a natter.
At 8 o'clock you become aware
That the chattering's getting weak.
A respectful silence envelops the room
As The President starts to speak.
She talks of events that have already been,
And the fun that the members enjoyed.
Of the plans for the future, the talks and the trips,
And collections of knitting and toys.
Then the speaker begins to inform us
Of things interesting and exciting.
Be it Mindfulness or Murderers
Or some Jimmy Choos that need icing.
It could be a Dwarf or a Super Vet
Or a talk about women inspiring
Us ordinary ladies, listening in awe
To their stories, imaginations firing.
Amanda then gives a vote of thanks
To the speaker, as we all applaud
Then we all take a break with a large slice of cake
There just isn't time to be bored.
With cups in hand ladies work the room
Discussing the future events
Be it Chatsworth or Bowling or meals out galore
Rifle Shooting or Tea in some Tents.
Group cycling and walking, painting and craft.
And a theatre visit or two.
Whatever your interests,or budget or age
There is alway plenty to do.
Ten years have passed since the start of this group
And members they come and they go
Firm friendships are made that will last through your life
And you might learn to cook or to sew.
So let's have a toast at the Bollywood Ball,
And raise all our glasses up high.
Happy 10th Anniversary to you lovely members all,
Give three cheers for the Fulshaw WI!
Jane Holland
With apologies to Pam Ayres.
Since I Joined Fulshaw WI
I joined up with Fulshaw, just six years ago
And what an experience, I think you should know
So here’s a short poem, about what I’ve done
Lots of activities, which means lots of fun
From writing the website to learning to craft
To many outsiders, it may seem quite daft
I've cycled to meetings and suffered much pain
I've broken my collarbone, my femur - oh, please not again.
I've walked around Wilmslow, gone to Cardiff to run
There’s not many activities, I haven’t done
I've camped and I've painted - not actions for me
But I loved making dance shoes, when tutored by Dee
There’s many a time I go out in the rain
My husband remarks ‘Not Fulshaw again?’
We went down to Denman to try the New Wave
I went back for some cooking, Italian’s my fave
To mark our ten years we had afternoon tea,
A great time we had with good company
We listened to music and made lots of cakes
And oh how I wish my scones were like those Jennie bakes
And what of our Presidents, fine ladies all three
I’ve worked with them all whilst on the committee
Started by Nicky, then Hilly, now Wendy
They brought us together and made Fulshaw ‘trendy’
So what of the next year, then two and then twenty?
One thing we do know, of laughs, there’ll be plenty!!!
Sheila Parker
My first introduction to W.I. came about through a very sad event. In July 2008, a colleague and close friend, Diana, died of bowel cancer: she was only fifty-one. At her funeral, her husband requested that, instead of donations, her friends and family should do something that Diana enjoyed as a fund raiser and send the money to charity.
Diana was a keen walker, cyclist and tennis player so several people organised various events around these sports. But I chose an activity to remember the numerous times Diana and I had gone on lunchtime retail-therapy trips. As we both worked for Cheshire East Social Services (Diana was a Social Worker) we often needed some light relief so we would have a good rummage in M &S, T K Maxx and all the local shops in Wilmslow. Diana's favourite saying was 'you can never have too many bags, shoes, scarves and costume jewellery'. We would go back to the office in Wilmslow with several purchases only to take most of them back the following day. It was not the material possession, but rather just the fun of the shop that we wanted.
With this in mind, I decided to hold an accessories fund raiser in the hope of raising a couple of hundred pounds. I booked St Anne's Hall for November of that year and instantly had lots of offers of help for the day. After I started publicising the event, the accessories started to come in and I was completely overwhelmed with the amount and quality of the items, so much so I decided to have a designer corner. People were incredibly kind with their donations. I had so much wonderful stuff: designer bags and shoes, boxes of jewellery and scarves. My house looked like a mini Hoopers (well, maybe not quite Hoopers, but you get the idea!). So many of my neighbours got in on the act, including our Amanda, who was, at that time, the Business Manager of a large school and the staff there were phenomenally generous.
One of my colleagues, Helen (another social worker), brought me some lovely items and asked where I was holding the fundraiser. I told her the school hall and she said that was where they had the W.I. Meetings that she attended. I was surprised as I had lived in the area for many years but had no idea there was a local WI down the road from me. Helen asked me if I wanted to go along as a guest, but, at first, I was very hesitant as my idea of WI was of singing ‘Jerusalem’, who could bake the best cakes, and despotic ladies in pinnies and hats. Nevertheless, I did go along and have never been so pleasantly surprised; I felt I belonged from that first night: no ‘Jerusalem’, and not a hat or pinny in sight!! I was so impressed I mentioned it to friends who then came along and we have all been members ever since.
Out of sadness came something so enjoyable and I have Diana to thank for that. Incidentally, we raised over £2500, an incredible amount that went to The Bobby Moore Bowel Cancer Charity. And on the strength of that, I did two more in consecutive years raising £1500 each time, donating that to East Cheshire Hospice. Not only did I do something for my friend’s memory, but I also joined an organisation that has given me so much pleasure and enabled me to make so many new friends.
Liz Moss
In the genre of ‘The Ladybird Books For Grown Ups Series’
The Women’s Institute [WI]
When trying to explain to her partner about the WI, Amanda attempts to dissuade him from the fact that it’s not about play improvised solos and vamp on tunes, songs and chord progressions.
Rarely do the members actually sing ‘Jerusalem’ in four part harmony!
Her partner is disappointed as he wanted her to take along his clarinet to the next meeting.
This WI president (lady with the hat) was somewhat bemused by her ‘minders’ sharing centre stage with her. She was desperately trying to remember whether they had paid their subs this year.
The lady in the yellow top had forgotten to tell El Presidente that the shoe colour order of the day was ‘neutral’. Too late now she thinks to herself!
Sunflower and Honeybee were beginning to wonder what they had let themselves in for when they arrived at the WI night out. The email had said ‘meet at airKx’. Clearly, the jump suit was not for ‘hot yoga’.
Still, Tigger was having a good time!
At the annual WI ‘Tea and Tents’ event Wendoline was determined to do things correctly and uphold the proud tradition of the Fulshaw WI. Her colleagues did think she was overdoing things a little, creating her own latrine to such a high standard.
However Wendoline did win the Eco-friendly ‘Creativity prize‘.
The collection of unwanted bras revealed more about the Fulshaw WI members than just their colour tastes. Suki, as WI ‘bra-filter monitor’ did have to exclude ‘peepholes’ and ‘tassles’ but allowed the ‘push-em ups’ through, as they would float better when raft-building with them.
It is an incorrect assumption to think that all WI groups just drink tea, coffee and eat cake! Diligent effort goes on in one particular WI group where a committee member goes to extraordinary lengths to create exciting cocktails for the ‘pre-meeting drinks’.
Unfortunately, the side-effect of this diligence is a tendency to try to exit the house through the dog-flap.
Despite their best efforts the ‘younger’ WI in Wilmslow, having engaged a Bollywood dancer for their Christmas Party, could not generate a human Christmas tree from their ‘turning the lightbulb’ moves.
One enthusiastic member tweeted post-event ‘Maybe we should try sword swallowing next year’. Luckily she isn’t renewing her membership – ‘what a pity’ thought the membership secretary.
Donna Johnstone
My daughter went to New Zealand for their summer and to avoid our winter. Within days of arriving she slipped and cut the sole of her foot badly. I had many traumatic phone calls from A&E but eventually the cut was stitched up and she caught a taxi back to her hostel. There she stayed in bed as she had to keep her leg elevated as much as possible. Going to the bathroom was hard enough so cooking was impossible. For the next few days she snacked on dry food, bread, biscuits and fruit, until the food began to run out.
She couldn't carry any shopping with her crutches. She phoned take-aways, but they don't deliver to hostels. She phoned supermarkets and again they don't deliver to hostels. She was getting hungry.
There seemed to be no-one to help her and I was half way around the world, at the other end of the phone, unable to help. Who did I know in New Zealand? Who did I know who knew someone in New Zealand?
Then I had a brain wave - the WI. Of course. I went on the website of NewZealand Federation of Women's Institutes and started searching for a group local to Helen, but there were no obvious websites. Eventually, in desperation, I completed the contact form on the main webpage:-
“Help! I'm a member of WI near Manchester, England and I would love it if you could help my daughter. She arrived in Wellington 10 days ago and within a few days hurt her foot, needing stitches. She has been on crutches ever since. However the foot was infected and she now has to keep it elevated 90% of the day. She is bedridden in Base Backpackers Hostel in Wellington, unable to get out to the supermarket for food. Would one of your lovely members kindly visit her and either buy her healthy snacks, or accompany her to the supermarket and carry her food back?
Please forgive my cry for help, but I feel so helpless here, and I know I'd do the same for any of you.”
The email would not be read for at least 12 hours because of the time difference. I waited and waited. That evening some of our WI went to see Suffragette and on the way home I checked my emails. I screamed with joy – I had a reply.
"What is your daughter's name? Our members here in Wellington city are all fairly elderly but I can do a food run for her...will follow up today and get back to you." from Colleen Dryden, the Executive Officer of New ZealandFederation of Women's Institutes.
I told Helen to get in touch with Colleen and went to sleep feeling much better. I woke the following morning to read that Colleen had met Helen in the supermarket and carried her shopping and put her in a taxi back to the hostel.
Helen was back in bed and now had food, mostly healthy, but food which didn't need cooking or preparing. The power of the WI.
Addendum
My daughter is still in NZ 18 months later and I recently went to visit her.was able to meet Colleen and thank her personally.
Diane Atkinson
Fulshaw Cycle Rides
Joined the committee to do my bit,
My mission it seemed, to keep us all fit.
Walking is great, though cycling is better,
Except when it rains, ‘cos you get that bit wetter.
Hours spent on tablet, where shall we go?
Mobberley, Ashley or where the Bollin doth flow?
‘Choose lanes with no hills !’ I hear some implore,
But no pain brings no gain, so much to explore.
Allostock’s too far, Alderley Edge too hilly ?
Maybe Northwich, Sandbach ? Please don’t be silly !
To Tatton, Plumley, Jodrell, we ride out for lunch,
Twenty plus miles later we return a tired bunch.
Cheshire Plain’s our oyster, riding south by south-west,
I imagine each ride; this will be our very best.
We start from the Rifleman’s, go off like a shot,
But first check my phone in case folk forgot.
Our pace is not that hot, but it’s still such a joy,
Cycling quiet lanes after Kenny and Hoy.
Single file’s safest but as you have guessed,
For a chance to chat, two abreast is best.
What we can’t say en route, we can say at the café,
Whilst eating our cake or sipping our latte.
It’s a great time for bonding with WI members,
Some joint U3A rides, we include both genders.
So pump up your tyres and fettle your steed,
Shorts should be padded, but for Lycra no need.
Wearing helmets and high viz, we do it in style,
So join us next time, for smile after mile.
Jane Rawlings
We would like to thank all the members who submitted the following contributions:
"That time of the month”, long ago those words would fill my heart with gloom,
Now those words fill me with joy when I walk in the room,
There is Wendy at the door to greet us all by name
Young or old, short or tall, she treats us all the same
Wendy is our president, she really is the best,
WI, her job, her family, when does she ever rest!
There is the committee where lots of work is done
To make sure that we ladies all have lots of fun.
Book club, cinema or go out on your bike
If that doesn't seem your thing, how about a hike,
Or you can join a trip away, we travel far and wide,
I’m sure you will enjoy it with new friend s at your side.
Sometimes it's a demonstration and then we all join in,
Some of us are clever But some go I the bin!
Mostly it's a speaker we all sit quiet as mice
But when the speakers finished the tea and cakes are nice.
We always have a raffle to help to swell the coffers
If you win you can be sure nice prizes are on offer,
The things that I have spoken of are things that you can see,
But the friendship and the company mean the most to me
When you leave our meeting of one thing I am sure
You'll be feeling happier, than when you came through the door.
Barbara Death
Since joining the WI
Since joining the WI my underwear’s turned light blue after a speaker came to advise us on revamping our wardrobes, and the monthly meeting refreshments rota has prompted the much overdue purchase of a cake mixer!
My much loved, but dormant dressmaking and craft skills have been revived with new enthusiasm. I joined the MORS bags machinists, revisited cross-stitch, created a woven heart basket, produced plarn pom-poms and can talk for hours about the intricacies of bunting.
I‘ve got rather damp whilst kayaking on Macclesfield Canal, thoroughly enjoyed rambling around Cheshire’s countryside and cycled locally with the alternative ‘Tour de Wilmslow’. Alas, calories burned are rapidly replaced as black forest gateau crumbs confirm that yet again I’ve obligingly ‘paid tribute’ to another local teashop! There’s only one remedy…..another walk or cycle trip….
On three occasions I’ve joined a handful of ladies for a National WI Tea ‘n’ Tents camping weekend – the last couple involving a mere 500 or so other women. Girl Guider or not, this unique event brings all types of women together for a multitude of silly and serious workshops, experiences and entertainment. Uncharacteristically I even did my bit at the Speaker’s Corner on a topic close to my heart. Space prevents me from expanding on the vast programme, but suffice to say there was something there for everyone and my smile muscles were well tested, as was my opinion of what I previously considered to be an average WI member! Why not suck it and see?
I’ve experienced wonderful theatre, films, restaurant fare, not to mention days out and weekends away – all things I would rarely have done on my own steam. Oh, and did I mention being nudged into a 150 mile per hour wind tunnel whilst attempting to indoor sky-dive? Not very good for the hair, but great for the adrenaline and my Facebook page!
Life is often challenging and unpredictable and it is my observation that it is women who often climb steep hills daily to survive or help others. I haven’t got any answers, but I do know where you can get your batteries recharged.
There is a lovely mishmash of slightly mad, fun women who meet once a month at Fulshaw Primary School who’ve had enough life experiences between them to give any guru a run for their money. Our speakers and activities are great, but what I value most about the WI are the friendly inspiring souls who unconsciously support one another whether it be while creating a Twiddlemuff, dodging cowpats in a muddy field, learning a new skill, discussing the latest book or joining in the hysterical laughter on a day out. I think the WI inadvertently fulfils a multitude of purposes for each of us in a different way and I’m profoundly grateful for that, whether it’s served with traditional jam and Jerusalem or not!
Cathy Wallace
I wondered lonely as a...full time working mother of one.
That floats on high o'er.....not really having fun.
When all at last I saw a crowd....from Fulshaw, St Annes, WI.
Beside the bell.
Beneath the school
Fluttering and dancing....being remarkably cool.
Continous as the.....speakers that came.
And twinkle on the.....cakes thus slain
They stretched with never ending.....ideas
From unknown women, to inspirational peers.
100 saw I at a glance
Tossing their heads...with a bollywood dance.
The charities beside them came: and they
Out did the sparkling donations with glee.
The WI could not dismay
With such deserving company.
I gazed and gazed...at what joy they brought.
What health and wealth to others they support.
For oft, when moaning about work I lie.
In vacant and unhealthy mood
They flash the Fulshaw WI.
Which is the bliss of a wholesome brood
What friendship my heart with pleasure now fills
The bossom of my WI, daffodils.
Myra Ball
He walked slowly down the stairs into the kitchen, took the kettle to the tap and filled it. He switched it on and then went to the cupboard to find the cereal. She came into the kitchen, her arms filled with dirty laundry destined for the washing machine.
" Did you bring the milk in " she said as she poured powder into the slot of the washer. " No" he replied.
" It's Tuesday, the milk comes on Wednesday". She sighed and started towards the door. " I'll get it, it is Wednesday". When she came back into the kitchen, she saw him standing, ashen faced, staring straight ahead. Had he forgotton an important meeting? Had he missed an early train to London?
"Whatever's the matter? " she said quietly, worried he may keel over. He slumped into the chair. "But I'm wearing my Tuesday socks" he groaned.
Lis Fleming
The WI has given me wings and taught me to do some unusual things
We learned to dance in the Bollywood way graceful and clever and go with a sway
Read lots of books that I never would choose
Ended up loving some- some I would lose
Eating left overs delicious and fun
They're just as healthy when all said and done
Best of all is the Monday night meeting
Topical drinks are Dee's usual greeting
Talks that are varied, moving and sad
Some make us cry, some make us mad
Some are uplifting, tales to inspire
Some have us make jewelry with beads and with wire
Friends will greet us with a hug and a smile
We forget the worlds trouble and laugh for a while.
And don't forget Wendy witty and clever
Caring and quirkie we'll love her forever
The committee encourage us to sign up for treats
Get your name down quickly or you may lose your seat
Cinema, lunches, afternoon tea, walking and baking
and trips to the sea.
I'm lucky I know to belong to this lot
But we never forget that others are not
We try in a way that is quiet and is fair
to give help to others who need help and care
Sylvia Rose
My Life As President
It's 2014
With butterflies in my tummy
My speech begins
With thanks to the old President, Secretary and Treasurer too
They are all standing down for pastures new
My committee help me - Through this and that,
show me the ropes with cake and a chat
We laugh at the puppet man and gasp with delight
At the ones that are good - on the night
I organise paperwork, reply to the flow
Of enquiries through email
Facebook and so and so
We put out the chairs, welcome guests at the door
announce new events, and say a cheery hello
Point out the exits and the disabled loo
I introduce speakers and start to time too
Will they finish
Or need to be rushed
As there's cake to be eaten
It can be a push
It's raffle time let's draw the winner
Squeals of delight echoed by the winner
Final notices and a cheery good bye
With the end of the evening brings a sigh
It's then time to start clearing the floor
We stand round to natter and discuss how it flowed
Patting ourselves on the back at a night well spent
Before heading home we are all about spent
As we look at the ladies with smiles on their faces
With new skills or knowledge brings a smile to our faces
What will the month bring we think with glee
And will the next walk provide a coffee
Each month we meet up to prepare it again
To organise outings and who'll lend a hand
I'll attend most things with camera in tow
I know some people are in awe
But you know the best bit of my role as president
It that I get to meet people that are really decent
It's a great job to do and I’d recommend it
Because in no time at all that will be it
Wendy Morris
The fame of the Fulshaw WI
Is spreading far and wide.
Women will kill to go on the list
Waiting to get inside
When you're finally in the President
Will say hello to you.
She does prefer a curtsy
But a formal bow will do.
Then Dee will offer you a glass
Of something cold and bubbly.
You haven't a clue what it contains
But it's always rather lovely.
Lorna then welcomes all newbies
With a smile that's warm and inviting.
She'll introduce you to a friendly face
So your first visit's not too frightening.
The room appears so noisy
Full of news and gossip and chatter
Although there are serious matters ahead
Everyone loves a natter.
At 8 o'clock you become aware
That the chattering's getting weak.
A respectful silence envelops the room
As The President starts to speak.
She talks of events that have already been,
And the fun that the members enjoyed.
Of the plans for the future, the talks and the trips,
And collections of knitting and toys.
Then the speaker begins to inform us
Of things interesting and exciting.
Be it Mindfulness or Murderers
Or some Jimmy Choos that need icing.
It could be a Dwarf or a Super Vet
Or a talk about women inspiring
Us ordinary ladies, listening in awe
To their stories, imaginations firing.
Amanda then gives a vote of thanks
To the speaker, as we all applaud
Then we all take a break with a large slice of cake
There just isn't time to be bored.
With cups in hand ladies work the room
Discussing the future events
Be it Chatsworth or Bowling or meals out galore
Rifle Shooting or Tea in some Tents.
Group cycling and walking, painting and craft.
And a theatre visit or two.
Whatever your interests,or budget or age
There is alway plenty to do.
Ten years have passed since the start of this group
And members they come and they go
Firm friendships are made that will last through your life
And you might learn to cook or to sew.
So let's have a toast at the Bollywood Ball,
And raise all our glasses up high.
Happy 10th Anniversary to you lovely members all,
Give three cheers for the Fulshaw WI!
Jane Holland
With apologies to Pam Ayres.
Since I Joined Fulshaw WI
I joined up with Fulshaw, just six years ago
And what an experience, I think you should know
So here’s a short poem, about what I’ve done
Lots of activities, which means lots of fun
From writing the website to learning to craft
To many outsiders, it may seem quite daft
I've cycled to meetings and suffered much pain
I've broken my collarbone, my femur - oh, please not again.
I've walked around Wilmslow, gone to Cardiff to run
There’s not many activities, I haven’t done
I've camped and I've painted - not actions for me
But I loved making dance shoes, when tutored by Dee
There’s many a time I go out in the rain
My husband remarks ‘Not Fulshaw again?’
We went down to Denman to try the New Wave
I went back for some cooking, Italian’s my fave
To mark our ten years we had afternoon tea,
A great time we had with good company
We listened to music and made lots of cakes
And oh how I wish my scones were like those Jennie bakes
And what of our Presidents, fine ladies all three
I’ve worked with them all whilst on the committee
Started by Nicky, then Hilly, now Wendy
They brought us together and made Fulshaw ‘trendy’
So what of the next year, then two and then twenty?
One thing we do know, of laughs, there’ll be plenty!!!
Sheila Parker
My first introduction to W.I. came about through a very sad event. In July 2008, a colleague and close friend, Diana, died of bowel cancer: she was only fifty-one. At her funeral, her husband requested that, instead of donations, her friends and family should do something that Diana enjoyed as a fund raiser and send the money to charity.
Diana was a keen walker, cyclist and tennis player so several people organised various events around these sports. But I chose an activity to remember the numerous times Diana and I had gone on lunchtime retail-therapy trips. As we both worked for Cheshire East Social Services (Diana was a Social Worker) we often needed some light relief so we would have a good rummage in M &S, T K Maxx and all the local shops in Wilmslow. Diana's favourite saying was 'you can never have too many bags, shoes, scarves and costume jewellery'. We would go back to the office in Wilmslow with several purchases only to take most of them back the following day. It was not the material possession, but rather just the fun of the shop that we wanted.
With this in mind, I decided to hold an accessories fund raiser in the hope of raising a couple of hundred pounds. I booked St Anne's Hall for November of that year and instantly had lots of offers of help for the day. After I started publicising the event, the accessories started to come in and I was completely overwhelmed with the amount and quality of the items, so much so I decided to have a designer corner. People were incredibly kind with their donations. I had so much wonderful stuff: designer bags and shoes, boxes of jewellery and scarves. My house looked like a mini Hoopers (well, maybe not quite Hoopers, but you get the idea!). So many of my neighbours got in on the act, including our Amanda, who was, at that time, the Business Manager of a large school and the staff there were phenomenally generous.
One of my colleagues, Helen (another social worker), brought me some lovely items and asked where I was holding the fundraiser. I told her the school hall and she said that was where they had the W.I. Meetings that she attended. I was surprised as I had lived in the area for many years but had no idea there was a local WI down the road from me. Helen asked me if I wanted to go along as a guest, but, at first, I was very hesitant as my idea of WI was of singing ‘Jerusalem’, who could bake the best cakes, and despotic ladies in pinnies and hats. Nevertheless, I did go along and have never been so pleasantly surprised; I felt I belonged from that first night: no ‘Jerusalem’, and not a hat or pinny in sight!! I was so impressed I mentioned it to friends who then came along and we have all been members ever since.
Out of sadness came something so enjoyable and I have Diana to thank for that. Incidentally, we raised over £2500, an incredible amount that went to The Bobby Moore Bowel Cancer Charity. And on the strength of that, I did two more in consecutive years raising £1500 each time, donating that to East Cheshire Hospice. Not only did I do something for my friend’s memory, but I also joined an organisation that has given me so much pleasure and enabled me to make so many new friends.
Liz Moss
In the genre of ‘The Ladybird Books For Grown Ups Series’
The Women’s Institute [WI]
When trying to explain to her partner about the WI, Amanda attempts to dissuade him from the fact that it’s not about play improvised solos and vamp on tunes, songs and chord progressions.
Rarely do the members actually sing ‘Jerusalem’ in four part harmony!
Her partner is disappointed as he wanted her to take along his clarinet to the next meeting.
This WI president (lady with the hat) was somewhat bemused by her ‘minders’ sharing centre stage with her. She was desperately trying to remember whether they had paid their subs this year.
The lady in the yellow top had forgotten to tell El Presidente that the shoe colour order of the day was ‘neutral’. Too late now she thinks to herself!
Sunflower and Honeybee were beginning to wonder what they had let themselves in for when they arrived at the WI night out. The email had said ‘meet at airKx’. Clearly, the jump suit was not for ‘hot yoga’.
Still, Tigger was having a good time!
At the annual WI ‘Tea and Tents’ event Wendoline was determined to do things correctly and uphold the proud tradition of the Fulshaw WI. Her colleagues did think she was overdoing things a little, creating her own latrine to such a high standard.
However Wendoline did win the Eco-friendly ‘Creativity prize‘.
The collection of unwanted bras revealed more about the Fulshaw WI members than just their colour tastes. Suki, as WI ‘bra-filter monitor’ did have to exclude ‘peepholes’ and ‘tassles’ but allowed the ‘push-em ups’ through, as they would float better when raft-building with them.
It is an incorrect assumption to think that all WI groups just drink tea, coffee and eat cake! Diligent effort goes on in one particular WI group where a committee member goes to extraordinary lengths to create exciting cocktails for the ‘pre-meeting drinks’.
Unfortunately, the side-effect of this diligence is a tendency to try to exit the house through the dog-flap.
Despite their best efforts the ‘younger’ WI in Wilmslow, having engaged a Bollywood dancer for their Christmas Party, could not generate a human Christmas tree from their ‘turning the lightbulb’ moves.
One enthusiastic member tweeted post-event ‘Maybe we should try sword swallowing next year’. Luckily she isn’t renewing her membership – ‘what a pity’ thought the membership secretary.
Donna Johnstone
My daughter went to New Zealand for their summer and to avoid our winter. Within days of arriving she slipped and cut the sole of her foot badly. I had many traumatic phone calls from A&E but eventually the cut was stitched up and she caught a taxi back to her hostel. There she stayed in bed as she had to keep her leg elevated as much as possible. Going to the bathroom was hard enough so cooking was impossible. For the next few days she snacked on dry food, bread, biscuits and fruit, until the food began to run out.
She couldn't carry any shopping with her crutches. She phoned take-aways, but they don't deliver to hostels. She phoned supermarkets and again they don't deliver to hostels. She was getting hungry.
There seemed to be no-one to help her and I was half way around the world, at the other end of the phone, unable to help. Who did I know in New Zealand? Who did I know who knew someone in New Zealand?
Then I had a brain wave - the WI. Of course. I went on the website of NewZealand Federation of Women's Institutes and started searching for a group local to Helen, but there were no obvious websites. Eventually, in desperation, I completed the contact form on the main webpage:-
“Help! I'm a member of WI near Manchester, England and I would love it if you could help my daughter. She arrived in Wellington 10 days ago and within a few days hurt her foot, needing stitches. She has been on crutches ever since. However the foot was infected and she now has to keep it elevated 90% of the day. She is bedridden in Base Backpackers Hostel in Wellington, unable to get out to the supermarket for food. Would one of your lovely members kindly visit her and either buy her healthy snacks, or accompany her to the supermarket and carry her food back?
Please forgive my cry for help, but I feel so helpless here, and I know I'd do the same for any of you.”
The email would not be read for at least 12 hours because of the time difference. I waited and waited. That evening some of our WI went to see Suffragette and on the way home I checked my emails. I screamed with joy – I had a reply.
"What is your daughter's name? Our members here in Wellington city are all fairly elderly but I can do a food run for her...will follow up today and get back to you." from Colleen Dryden, the Executive Officer of New ZealandFederation of Women's Institutes.
I told Helen to get in touch with Colleen and went to sleep feeling much better. I woke the following morning to read that Colleen had met Helen in the supermarket and carried her shopping and put her in a taxi back to the hostel.
Helen was back in bed and now had food, mostly healthy, but food which didn't need cooking or preparing. The power of the WI.
Addendum
My daughter is still in NZ 18 months later and I recently went to visit her.was able to meet Colleen and thank her personally.
Diane Atkinson
Fulshaw Cycle Rides
Joined the committee to do my bit,
My mission it seemed, to keep us all fit.
Walking is great, though cycling is better,
Except when it rains, ‘cos you get that bit wetter.
Hours spent on tablet, where shall we go?
Mobberley, Ashley or where the Bollin doth flow?
‘Choose lanes with no hills !’ I hear some implore,
But no pain brings no gain, so much to explore.
Allostock’s too far, Alderley Edge too hilly ?
Maybe Northwich, Sandbach ? Please don’t be silly !
To Tatton, Plumley, Jodrell, we ride out for lunch,
Twenty plus miles later we return a tired bunch.
Cheshire Plain’s our oyster, riding south by south-west,
I imagine each ride; this will be our very best.
We start from the Rifleman’s, go off like a shot,
But first check my phone in case folk forgot.
Our pace is not that hot, but it’s still such a joy,
Cycling quiet lanes after Kenny and Hoy.
Single file’s safest but as you have guessed,
For a chance to chat, two abreast is best.
What we can’t say en route, we can say at the café,
Whilst eating our cake or sipping our latte.
It’s a great time for bonding with WI members,
Some joint U3A rides, we include both genders.
So pump up your tyres and fettle your steed,
Shorts should be padded, but for Lycra no need.
Wearing helmets and high viz, we do it in style,
So join us next time, for smile after mile.
Jane Rawlings