It looks like we might get a bit of winter, with a chilly forecast this week. There certainly is plenty to do to take the winter blahs away, though: it’s such a busy time of year with so many fun events to attend!
Out first (dare I say annual?) Christmas tree lighting party was a great success! We had a wonderful turnout, so there were lots of us to witness the “lighting of the tree”. It really was a great way to kick off the festive season. Thanks to the New Horizons Elders’ Vision Council for financing the event, and to everyone who helped make it a success: if I start naming names I’m sure to forget someone. The lookout over the river where the old bridge used to be is such a nice little spot, even in winter; thanks to the Volunteer Society and TNRD Director Steve Rice for this lovely addition to Spences Bridge.
The next Zumba will be on Friday, December 9. This very fun exercise class is free to anyone at any level of fitness; we laugh as we dance (or lie on the floor) burning a few calories and stretching. Come to Clemes Hall at 10 a.m. on Fridays.
Just a reminder about the ham and turkey bingo on December 9: it’s lots of fun, and you could win a turkey or a ham! Doors open at 5:30 p.m., so come out and support the Spences Bridge Community Club.
Next up in the holiday festivities is the Cook’s Ferry Band Elders’ Christmas luncheon. This event is hosted entirely by the Cook’s Ferry Band, but is open to all elders to come and enjoy a delicious meal, and have some fun with the gift exchange. Please bring a wrapped gift (maximum $15 value) and be prepared to laugh a lot. The event starts at noon on December 14 at the Chief Whitsemnista centre.
The Cook’s Ferry Band and the SBCC join forces on December 17 to host an all-community Christmas party. While we provide the basics for a turkey and ham dinner with all the fixings, we ask that you please bring a veggie side dish, and/or a dessert to truly make it a festive feast! Santa will be taking time out of his busy schedule to make an appearance, so make sure all you children are being good, and let Santa’s helpers know that you’ll be there. Please join us for this wonderful annual event, as the whole community gathers to share a meal, enjoy the spirit of community, and have a few laughs with friends and neighbours. It all starts at noon at the Chief Whitsemnista centre.
The New Horizons grant program Elders’ Vision Council has a few new events planned. Coming in January are swimming in Merritt; a spa day in Spences Bridge; forming a Sun Run team for the spring; considering a leadership workshop; and more! Watch this space for details as they emerge.
Soup day has taken a break for the Christmas season: watch this space and look for posters regarding start-up in January. Thanks to all the volunteers who have done such a great job of making the soup.
Another completed project was “Fun with cooking with Eugenie!” Fun indeed: the power went out just as the chicken pies were to go into the oven!
Thankfully, the Inn at Spences Bridge invited the class over to use their propane stove, and all was well. Attendees had the choice of traditional pastry, or a healthy version with a cauliflower mixture replacing the pastry topping. It was a great day of learning, eating, and laughing.
Our next meeting is Wednesday, December 14 at Clemes Hall at 7 p.m.; everyone welcome!
We are very fortunate to have the dedicated volunteers that we do to make our little community so vibrant and active. It is due to the many folks who put in hours of work behind the scenes (or out in front) that there are events and activities to attend. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who assists in one way or another. And on behalf of the SBCC, I’d like to wish everyone a safe and merry Christmas, and all the best for 2017!