Telling tales through time: End of season stories of Ben Nevis, Ireland, wartime, and knitting

CANONBIE SWI held the last meeting of the season and Gill Bailey, president, invited members to entertain them by talking about their hobbies and talents.
Sheila Coupland, an accomplished speaker, transported members to Ireland many years ago with two, true-life short stories.
The first was a love story and the second a very descriptive tale about a woman with long earrings on a bike. Members could picture her cycling along the country lanes such was the author’s ability. Both had happy endings.
Next was Irene Johnstone with her knitted squares which were very colourful and, judging by the pile, she had been hard at work this year.
The squares go to make blankets for a residential home, a very worthwhile cause.
Nicola Donald brought her beautiful Orchard Cottage embroidery which she had also been working on this year. Nicola thanked everyone for baking and helping her to raise funds for her trip walking up Ben Nevis in aid of Alzheimer’s.
Ann Ludlam had everyone laughing at her recitation Piddling Pete. A light-hearted poem, which they expected to have a funny punchline at the end, did not disappoint.
Doreen Millar’s baking skills were evident as perfect chocolate cases were displayed and ideas on fillings were mouth-watering.
Heartrending
A heartrending story from treasurer Liz Walters made them sit up and think. Liz had photos and other items from her grandfather’s days serving in World War One.
He was 18 when sent to France as a tinsmith repairing weapons and machinery. When clearing out his loft, Liz came across his medals, still in the brown envelope and never worn.
The papers in his loft had many details of other Tommies which was interesting to hear. They were all remembered with pride, never to be forgotten.
Gill, who attended a course on needle felting, had made a lovely hare. He was very lifelike. Gill enjoyed the course and had an amusing time making his whiskers.
Gill thanked the committee for their help this year, the members for their company and the speakers.
They had a variety of speakers from Ian and his defibrillator use and Mary and Ladies in waiting and lively music from a ukelele band.
Hard-working secretary Elizabeth is starting to put together activities for the next season. There is plenty on offer over the summer: a visit to Dumfries House, Ayr; Botanic Gardens, Stranraer; and a walk at Sanquhar.
Thanks go to Carol Graham for counting the votes for the new committee.
Most points for the competitions over the year: 1 Liz Walters, 2 Elizabeth Kinstrey.
Competition. Flower of the month: 1 Dorothy Watson, 2 Liz Walters. Limerick: 1 Liz Walters, 2 Elizabeth Kinstrey. If you want to learn new skills and meet new friends, join them on September 19.