Dear Belles
It was almost unfathomable that back in February and March, whilst seeing other countries around the world going into lockdown, that we would have the same situation here in May. Normal life really does feel like it's been put on hold. We've probably all started conversations with something like 'when everything is back to normal' and the uncertainty about when normal will return can be disheartening and anxiety inducing. See below for some ideas we've collected together that might help. And on a jollier note, we've collected together a fab selection of members VE Day celebrations and activities, a stirring selection to be sure!
We hope you enjoy this newsletter. Stay safe and well.
Belles VE Day Weekend We've seen lots of pictures of your various activities over the bank holiday weekend and it's been so lovely to see how everyone has been marking the occasion. It's probably not what we had in mind earlier in the year but when reflecting on the sacrifices and privations that the people who lived through the Second World War had to contend with, it puts some of our own challenges into sharp relief. So whatever you did, we hope you had a wonderful VE Day! Have a look at our collages to see what some members got up to, including Sue who baked an war time fruitcake from a National Trust recipe (second collage, bottom right). The recipe for fruitcake is adapted for modern day baking from one used by Georgina Landemare, Winston Churchill's cook both at Downing Street during the war and later at his home Chartwell. Get the recipe and learn more about this amazing woman here. Meanwhile the more energetic among us have been getting out into the wilds of Oxfordshire. Emily found an amazing local walk on Thame Helpers Facebook page and set off to explore Thame Park, Sydenham and Towersey. She's kindly let us use her pictures and the route she took, plus some top tips for those who would like to try it. Why not send us your favourite local ramble? We'd love to hear more about the beautiful places to explore and discover in our area.
No flags? This resourceful house used some Union Jack pants instead. Talk about make do a mend...
Belle Catherine shared with us this incredible story. The lady in the photo is Hilda Duncombe, who is 103 years old, and with only one hip is aiming to do 103 laps of her care home garden in aid of the Alzheimer's Society. You can donate here, if you want to support Hilda's incredible feat.
Belles Challenge Thank you so much for emailing or tagging us to show us your beauteous creations for this first challenge. We've had a marvellous array of Vicky Sponges, it's been so lovely to see them all. We've been sharing them with our Instagram followers and we'll add them to our next challenge email for you all to see, plus the next activity. Meanwhile, there's still plenty of time to bake your own contribution (there's always time for cake), we've put Jane's recipe this blog so you can find it easily. And whilst you're here, have a look at the other blog posts we've put together of activities, inspiration, news and miscellany!