December 2005  - Edition No.99

Trevor's reminiscences of games past got me thinking too - did it stir up some memories for you? Do they play 'Jacks' [five stones or knuckle bones] these days? The old pavements were laid in a perfect way for a great game of hopscotch. Then there was 'Donkey', a game played with a rubber ball against a wall, performing various 'tricks' before you reached the final goal, and 'kick the cob', a variation of 'hide and seek'. I, too, collected cigarette cards as well as matchbox tops and cheese labels, but the biggest trade was in stamps and coloured beads!

As I start work on this, Issue 99 [December and Christmas], the rainy season appears to have passed and we are enjoying cold, crisp, frosty mornings with blue skies and sunshine - certainly a little more seasonal weather - let's hope it continues.

Now we are in to those hectic pre-Christmas weeks of panic - cakes, puddings, presents, cards - why do we do it?

Seeking your support!

As always I am indebted to the regular contributors - the mainstay of our Newsletter - but it really would be nice to hear from some others, particularly those who live in the village. If you enjoy the Newsletter - and I do hope, and believe, you do - why not make it YOUR New Year resolution to contribute just one item - article, photograph, poem, recipe, etc. - in the coming year. Just think what bumper issues we'd have!

After the printing of Debbie's delightful coloured cover, the kitty will be looking rather sick. So, to raise some money, plans are in hand to hold a Coffee Morning, to celebrate the 100th issue, at the Manor Hall on Saturday, 4th February. This may be a long way off and there will be more details later, but please make a note of the date in your new diaries or on your new calendars. Your coming for coffee will be appreciated, but it won't let you off coming up with an article!

Yes, the Newsletter will be 100 issues old in February and in thanking everyone for their contributions over the years and for this issue, may I ask for articles and items for February to be with me or left at the Shop by WEDNESDAY, 11TH JANUARY at the latest. Thank you.

With very best wishes for Christmas and the New Year.

Judie - Ed