Autumn

I must apologise for taking so long to report on the last Wessex Women's Network meeting held here at the Cloud Hotel on September 25th. The speaker was Chrissie King who told us how she worked as an artist's model and muse and eventually became the wife of the artist. She illustrated her talk by showing slides of her work and how it had progressed over the years to the professional standard she has reached today. It was a thoroughly enjoyable and interesting presentation, I love to hear stories of women who have found a talent and become successful through sheer determination and hard work.

Speaking of which I was one of the judges on Thursday for the prestigious 'everywoman awards' that are celebrating their tenth year. I have been a judge for 6 years and every year I am blown away by the talent, determination and perseverance the finalists have. This year was no exception and the winners will be announced on Dec 5th at the Awards Ceremony held at the Dorchester Hotel Park Lane. If you would like to attend this very exciting event go to www.everywoman.com

The World's Biggest Coffee Morning held at the Cloud Hotel in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support raised £435-00 and thank you to those of you who supported it. Numbers were way down this year as more and more people are holding coffee mornings so I think you were all very generous and thank you.

The next charity event is the Christmas Dinner for members and their partners to be held at the Cloud Hotel Brockenhurst on Friday Dec 14th 7 for 7-30pm. The Highcliffe Junior Choir will start the evening off with a selection of Christmas Carols followed by a three course traditional Christmas Dinner and a glass of wine at £30-00 per person. All proceeds go to Macmillan Cancer Support, places are limited so do book early to avoid disappointment. To book call 01590 622165 payment is by cash or cheques only and cheques should be payable to Macmillan Cancer Support.

I am really looking forward to welcoming our next speaker to the Wessex Women's Network dinner meeting on Tuesday 23rd October. Viv Oyulo is a radio presenter on Dream Corner a radio show and on-line hub of interviews inspiring women of all ages to follow their dreams and passion. My daughter Amanda and I were interviewed by Viv earlier this year and it was a very enjoyable experience. Viv has a bubbly personality and is inspirational herself and great fun.  I hope I shall have the pleasure of welcoming you on October 23rd  to hear Viv's story.

I can't believe the clocks go back at the end of the month and winter is on the way, where did the summer go? Or did it come at all?

Don't forget if you want to get together with other members of the network the conservatory is a secluded area where you can enjoy morning coffee [ cappuccino, latte or espresso] or afternoon tea or in the winter months sit by the log fire in one of our cosy lounges.

Finally  'Use the talents you possess because the woods would be a very silent place if no birds sang except the best'

Enjoy the Autumn

Bye for now

Avril