After
settling in with a ‘hobbies’ wordsearch, visitors had a first opportunity to
have a look at displays of books and artefacts set up around the hall. Visitors
and volunteers had been invited to bring along some of their own memorabilia
and collections, and the range of interests displayed was fascinating and
wide-ranging.
We had a collection of old
needlework artefacts including wooden cotton reels, thimbles, darning
‘mushrooms’ and a button tin, some beautifully crafted boxes, one made by a
prisoner of war in 1918, a collection of ornamental frogs, some colourful
handmade patchwork, a sketchbook belonging to a budding artist, a collection of
early coins, some handmade lace and lace-making tools and much more! A different aspect of collecting was
presented in a mixed tray of unusual ‘bits and pieces’ accumulated over the
years, which led to much puzzling and discussion about ‘what was this for?’
‘Conversation
boards’ encouraged everyone to chat about hobbies past and present, and perhaps
plans for the future, and included music and entertainment, sport – as a
participant or spectator, DIY, arts and crafts, reading and specific
collections. Talking about hobbies and interests stimulated many happy memories
and often led to conversations about other aspects of our past lives.
After
a break for tea, there was a further opportunity to stroll around and explore
each others’ passions, and perhaps find out where a hobby or interest began! It
was a fascinating afternoon for us all, and we rounded the cafe off with a hearty
‘sing-along’ of old favourites.
The
next meetings of Crantock Memory Cafe will be held on Monday 17th July
and Monday 7th August. We meet in Crantock Village Hall from 2pm to
4pm on the first and third Mondays of each month and should you need further
information please ring Di on 01637 830544, Joan on 01637 831347.
