The Beaulieu Community Centre was eerily quiet without all of our regular hirers over the Summer holidays.  It is a delight to have them all back and to hear the bustle of activity in the foyer and through our halls once again.  It was such a pleasure to see people enjoying the new foyer and watching children participating in some of the activities that have been set up for them.  Colouring in books, sensory toys and an array of wonderful books that take them on a magical journey, whilst waiting.

As I sit and write this article, the first thing that comes to me is the sudden chill in the air and the promise of cooler days and nights, where the sun goes down earlier.  We have acquired some wonderful board games to keep you occupied and entertained.  Games such as Chess, Draughts, Chinese Checkers, Cards and Scrabble.  The games can be borrowed from reception and returned before leaving the centre.

I can’t believe that we are already looking forward towards planning Christmas activities for the community.  Time waits for no one.  But, on this note – we have two magical events that are already in the calendar and not to be missed.

We are thrilled to have Mini Market back at Beaulieu on the 1st December 11h00 – 16h00.  This event is always one that I absolutely love as the selection of stalls selling bespoke products from local businesses is where I find those ideal Christmas gifts for friends, colleagues and teachers.  Music radiates the halls and the aromas from the food vendors entice my appetite.  Watching the children getting their face painted and enjoying the hype of activity.  I know that Ruth Pierce who runs the Mini Market will astound us once again.  Rotary Mildmay will also be hosting Santa’s Grotto in the upstairs hall.  Watching the kids delight as they see Santa and proudly walk away with their gift is heartwarming.  Tickets for Santa’s Grotto are available for purchase on our Eventbrite page. So bring the family and enjoy all the wonderful local activities.

Although Christmas is considered a time where families and friends celebrate together around their dinner table, sharing stories and laughter whilst their children play with their newly unwrapped gifts.  It is also, for many, a time of loneliness, sadness and loss.  This year we are welcoming those who do not have someone to share this time with, to join us on the 7th December for a Community Meal.  We would love to share stories, music, food and laughter with you.  I personally do not have my extended family living near me.  They are spread far and wide across the globe.  Christmas just isn’t Christmas unless you have someone to share it with.  Let’s start a new tradition here at Beaulieu Community Centre, where we come together to reflect on the past year and to enjoy an evening of celebrating and making new friends.  Tickets will soon be available on our Eventbrite page, but save the date in your calendar as something to look forward to.

Lastly, but certainly not least, I would like to welcome Samantha to our team.  Samantha is a breath of fresh air and Suzy and I are really looking forward to having her assist us in creating a more community driven centre where we support the people that matter most to us – YOU!

Until next month.  Best wishes,

Noleen Andrews