Living in a multicultural country is, arguably, one of the most interesting things about life. Learning about other customs and traditions helps us to understand and connect with others in new ways. The De Beauvoir WI values and welcomes diversity within our membership. Japanese culture has always seemed popular. I recall a documentary series I watched fairly recently and being inspired by their respect for nature and gardens, something important to me personally.

The WI as an institution campaigns for sustainability and when I was researching the Kimono for this blog it struck me that, in a society of fast, wear once fashion, this beautiful fashion style is an antidote to the waste created. It is practical, suitable for all seasons and seems simple to make and wear. I am really excited to learn more about the Kimono at next month’s meeting, I hope that you are all just as intrigued too. I have decided not to give anything away but I will share this link to the V&A Museum in case you want to come already prepared with some knowledge before the night.

At all meetings

Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month in the Crypt at St Peter’s Church, De Beauvoir, starting at 7.30pm.  Sisters take it in turns to serve delicious refreshments, including tea and cake, wine, and assorted snacks from the kitchen.  Meetings are free to members, or only £5 for guests (price includes tea/coffee and cake).  Come and join us for a chance to catch up with friends old and new.

Covid compliance notice

The DBWI are still asking for some precautions to be taken regarding Covid.  In line with guidance from the NFWI masks are optional but we encourage members and guests to wear one when in more crowded areas, such as queueing for refreshments.  We will continue to keep doors and windows open in the Crypt for ventilation.  Wash hands in the toilets and/or use sanitiser, which we will provide hand sanitiser if you cannot bring your own but please bring your own if you can.  All surfaces on tables and at the hatch will be wiped down with disinfectant before your arrival.  If you can do a lateral flow test before attending meetings and contact us if you develop symptoms after attending.

Book Group

This group is usually held on the third Tuesday of a month at a member’s house or a pub.  The book of the month is announced at the monthly meetings, they are usually around 300 pages in length.  You can sign up at the meeting or email if interested.  For details on how the group works please visit the page on the website.

Walking Group

The walking group meets on the last Friday of each month during British Summer Time. These tend to be 60-90 minute relatively local walks and generally accessible to most people.  An occasional weekend day trip is organised to venture further afield.  Interest can be expressed at monthly meetings where there will be a sign up sheet, or by emailing the address included on the poster above.  Please see the group page on the website for a teaser of August’s stroll and pics of previous walks.

Knitting Group

Due to Covid restrictions the knitting group has been on a lengthy hiatus. However we are keen to revive it so would like to gage how much interest there would be for this. Please email us or let us know at the meeting. Our yarn bombs are legendary. Follow this link to our Knit and Crochet page (awaiting a full update) to see the post box topper made for the the Queen’s Jubilee in June.

The De Beauvoir Show – Blooms, Bakes and Barks

Come and join in the fun on Sunday the 4th September. Held by the De Beauvoir Gardeners the show takes place in the square and the DBWI are holding a stall selling jams, preserves and marmalade. We are trying to arrange a jam making workshop and will contact members if this happens. Otherwise if anyone would like to volunteer to make some for us please get in contact on the email in the poster above, there are a couple of guidelines we would need to make you aware of. We will reimburse costs for ingredients bought as well. Also please let us know if you can help on the day, volunteers for the stall or handing out our flyers would be appreciated.

Updates

On last month’s blog I told you about some upcoming trips. The first to Marble Hill/Henrietta Howard House is due to happen on the 10th September. Our secretary is awaiting a response from English Heritage to confirm that this can go ahead. The outcome will be announced at the meeting and this trip will either go ahead or replaced with a new destination. The second trip to the House of Parliament with MP Meg Hillier is postponed until Thursday 8th December. There is still time to add your name if you contact us by email.

As always, on behalf of all the DBWI sisters, I wish you all well and hope to see you all on the 1st. Stay safe everyone.