Every
month at the Memory Cafe we are delighted to welcome a wide range of visitors
who entertain everyone or share their interest and knowledge on a wide range of
topics, encouraging friendly chatter and evoking memories from us all.
For
our August cafe, however, the tables were turns and cafe members found
themselves to be the main topic of interest and conversation. A word-search
entitled ‘That’s Life’ was the first clue, and this was followed by a TV theme
which was familiar to some of us: ‘This is Your Life’. Eamonn Andrews didn’t
appear from behind a curtain to surprise us with his red book, but instead we began
a music-led ‘tour’ of the various stages of our lives. For example, family and
childhood were introduced by ‘My Brother’ by Terry Scott and ‘Three Little
Maids from School’ from Gilbert and Sullivan’s ‘The Mikado’, whilst friends,
past and present were encapsulated in ‘Friends and Neighbours’ sung by Billy
Cotton. Words to some of the songs were
provided and everyone did a good job of singing along with the choruses! Time was given for everyone to chat about
their recollections of these years and, as usual, memories were not in short
supply – so much so that we didn’t get as far as our working lives, wartime
experiences, children and grandchildren, special events and much more! Never
mind – we’ll save them for another time.
A
mid-way break in a busy afternoon enabled everyone to ‘refuel’ with cakes and
tea and to get to know several new visitors who we were delighted to welcome to
the Memory Cafe. Despite the dreadful
wet weather, the cafe was very busy and our wonderful kitchen helpers were kept
on their toes!
Over
the time that the cafe has been running (nearly three years now) we have found
that despite their initial concerns, our visitors do have many memories to
share about different aspects of their lives. Our ‘This is Your Life’ theme
culminated in the introduction of ‘Memory Boxes’ for everyone to take away, in
which they can gather together photos, papers and objects which remind them of
their lives, both for their own benefit and for them to share with friends and
family. In addition to the boxes, members were given a blank ‘My Life Story’
book to work through at home which covers many aspects of our lives over the
years, including favourite foods, TV programmes, music etc.
As
usual, thanks to all of our organisers and supporters and we look forward to
seeing everyone again at our next meetings which will be held on Monday 15th
August, Monday 5th September and Monday 19th September. New
members are always welcome and we are open to anyone concerned about memory
loss, with their carers. For more
information ring Di on 01637 830544 or Joan on 01637 831347.
