The
cafe opened again on Monday 7th August – the year seems to be
rushing by so fast, and it’s surprising to think back on the range of
activities and entertainment we’ve experienced since January!
This
month we welcomed husband and wife John and Gret Woodason, who talked to us
about the Newquay University of the Third Age or ‘U3A’ as it’s usually
known. To get us ‘in the groove’ cafe
visitors were given a U3A-based wordsearch to puzzle over, and a display of
some of the many U3A activities to have a look at.
Gret
and John then gave us a most interesting illustrated talk explaining the role
of the organisation in providing leisure, social and learning opportunities for
the retired and semi-retired in our community. Everyone was surprised by the
range of activities on offer, many of which could be enjoyed by cafe members
and their families – walking, reading, dancing, antiques, languages and
table-tennis to name just a few! There was even a chance to sample the ‘singing
for fun’ activity as Gret and John led us in a lively rendition of ‘There’s a
Hole in my Bucket’! The talk was
illustrated by some beautiful shots taken by the ‘Photography Group’ as well as
interesting information about the formation and aims of the U3A to ‘learn,
laugh and live’ as their slogan puts it. Leaflets about the U3A were available
for our visitors to take away and there was plenty of time to ask questions and
chat about opportunities on offer and it certainly gave everyone food for
thought!
Before
tea there was just time to have a go at a couple of word puzzles – one based
around the word ‘Dancers’ and another which gave us a line from a well-known
song and then challenged us to remember the words which came next – not as easy
as you might think, but much easier if you sang the words rather than spoke
them – yet another opportunity for a laugh!
After
a delicious tea with a wonderful selection of homemade savouries, cakes and
biscuits ‘Memories Packs’ were distributed around the tables. These contained
all manner of interesting items from the past including newspapers, vintage
greetings cards, adverts, postage stamps, knitting patterns, photos and
more. Much conversation and interest was
generated by these fascinating items and there was a chance to move between the
tables to have a look at different selections.
It was a most enjoyable activity which sent everyone home with plenty to
talk and think about until our next Memory Cafe Extra meeting at 2pm on Monday
21st August at Crantock Village Hall. Should you need further
information please ring Di on 01637 830544, Joan on 01637 831347.
