We had a wonderful get-together this month, again at the Mt. Ephraim Charles Doughtery Senior Center. There were five of us and our main topic was Hobbies, our side topic is always Local History. The largest number we have had to date is 12 and I have to admit the smaller group is a little more comfortable, each person gets more of a chance to talk and there is less side chat. It gives a relaxed and unhurried feel to the get-together. I think 5 or 6 is the ideal number. I was sorry to not see some regulars, but delighted to agree two new members.
For Hobbies, Co-Chair of the group, Linda, brought her collection of collectable vintage costume jewelry, beautifully arrayed on a crocheted white pillow, and her books on how to collect, what to look for and how to identify periods and materials.
Dan talked to us about his gardening hobby, about propogation, the Lakeland Greenhouse, heirloom plants and tomatoes and composting.
Jane talked about bird-watching, the birds she has spotted including wax-wings, red-wings, cardinals and the goldfinch among others. We all shared a lively discussion on our interactions with squirrels involving bird feeders, and in my case, a home invasion via roof!
Marie discussed her old hobbies, Macrame, Hooked Rugs and pottery.
I brought three paintings: a landscape of the Cooper River, a cityscape of Millville abandoned factories, and a still life of summer vegetables. I also brought some books and journals and we talked about he habit of writing and keeping Gratitude Journals. Everyone got a journal and we all wrote our 5 gratitudes then shared one each.
We also talked about the traits that are linked to preventing dementia which include learning something new, solving puzzles and socializing - one of the goals of our group.
For Local History, we talked about the Audubon 250 year Old Tree on the White Horse Pike, the Walt Fest in Laurel Springs and the old healing waters cure, and re-purposed railroad depots.
Next month, we talk about World War II. We started a little this month with Memorial Day, but next month when we have more time, we will get into World War Ii since the 50th anniversary of D-Day is coming up.
Finally we talked about the always popular subject of pets and next week we bring some pet photos and I will bring a dog portrait of my new dog, Uma. Time permitting, and if I can gather enough materials for everyone, we may have an introduction to drawing session.
It was a lovely day and a really stimulating and enjoyable afternoon. Oh yes, I almost forgot, I gave everyone a copy of the latest Camden County Alliance magazine with the cover devoted to Walt Whitman, and the really spectacular map with all the historic locations on it! Thanks Camden County Historical Society for your generous gift to our group.
Happy Trails!
Jo Ann
wrightj45@yahoo.com
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