There
was much to celebrate at our first Memory Cafe of 2019!
Firstly,
of course, the beginning of a new year -
a time for fresh starts, new ideas and resolutions, and many ‘Happy New
Year’ greetings were exchanged between friends old and new.
Secondly,
our early January ‘get-together’ was the fifth anniversary of the opening of
the very first Crantock Memory Cafe back in 2014. This gave us the opportunity
to look back on some of the good times we’ve had and to see the range of activities
we’ve tried over that time. Joan, who is
chair of our organising committee, thanked everyone for coming and paid tribute
to the many generous people, both from Crantock and further afield, who have
been good friends to the Memory Cafe over the last five years in so many
different ways.
First,
though, there was the chance for everyone to settle down for a chat or to
puzzle over a word-search before we welcomed ‘Fiddle me Timbers’ our lively
local shanty singers, who had come along to entertain everyone and give us a
chance to do what we always enjoy - ‘join in!’ The music was great with plenty
of rhythms to tap or clap, and some tuneful new songs as well as familiar
favourites!
As
the shanty session drew to a close our wonderful ‘refreshments team’ brought in
a beautifully decorated birthday cake with candles for everyone to see before
it was returned to the kitchen to be cut. We sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to the cafe
and to one of our friends who was celebrating a ‘special’ birthday before
‘Fiddle Me Timbers’ completed their programme with a final song.
By
teatime everyone was ready for a ‘cuppa’ and a slice of cake (or two, well they
were delicious!). After tea there was time to explore the extensive display of
photographs and view a range of artefacts depicting domestic life, children’s
clothing, sport, toys and much more, reminding us of past cafes, or perhaps
making some think ‘I missed out on that – I hope there will be a chance to do
it at another time!’.Thought-provoking questions and comments ensured everyone
had a close look and the opportunity to talk with friends and neighbours. There were boxes of everyday objects from
past decades to look through which stimulated conversation and there were even
some mystery items which provoked much thought and discussion!
All
too soon it was time to round off the afternoon. We look forward to meeting up
again on January 21st and February 4th at Crantock Village Hall from
2pm – 4pm. New members, who have a degree of memory loss, are always welcome to
come along with their carers. Should you require more information please
contact Di on 01637 830544, or Joan on 01637 831347.
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