Red Red Wine

Good afternoon everyone.

We had another stimulating, and from this person’s  point of view, very enjoyable meeting today.  Ten members attended, with copious apologies. Are people preparing early for the Easter break?

Toastmaster Wendy had prepared very well for today. Easter Eggs were on hand and a delightful two page programme was appropriately decorated. She also managed the meeting very well, with linking between speakers and thanks for them following.

It did seem as if ‘someone’ had taken a bite from something before they entered the room, because the meeting became very relaxed – the General Evaluator called it ‘loose’. Formality is somewhat eased with fewer members, it seems.  A reminder to all that correctness and not too much levity is necessary, especially when we have guests who may not realise we know each so well, and this is not usually how Toastmasters meetings happen!

Darryl’s  speech was entitled, “Red, Red Wine”, an appropriate title for the mystery bottle he produced.  He showed us (with a sample!) how all of our senses are brought into play whenever we drink wine, particularly red, so that we can even identify what the mystery bottle contains. It would be fun trying!
Laurence’s evaluation covered the basics, with two recommendations for next time Darryl presents a speech.

Graeme introduced Sue next with her speech entitled, “Observation Creates Thought”. This fascinating topic, from Sue, a former Art teacher, asked if observation is a dying skill, overwhelmed by technology and the media in all its forms. What happens to our own thoughts and impressions, if we don’t practise their use?

Graeme’s evaluation of the speech gave Sue valuable insights and suggestions for next time.
Viv was in charge of Table Topics, all with a sort of Easter theme. The General Evaluator had been given a list of the topics which made for easier and quicker evaluation. Mike was asked what sort of bunny he would like, and received Best T/T for choosing a Playboy one. (He may live to regret that choice!)

Cheryl was able to produce a personal experience from the recent past, with humour. She likes wine, too!

Graeme was asked to tell why spring was his favourite season, giving very good reasons, with lots of body language. He was advised not to get too cheeky!

Darryl informed us why he had no fertility plans, then moved to the topic of his daughter – no problems there.

Still waiting to see which are Ian’s favourite eggs and why, a somewhat fluffy reply, leaving no-one any the wiser. A good try, Ian!

It seems as if everyone member has renewed their dues this half, so well done, Pania. General business proceeded in the same, humorous fashion. I’d forgotten how much fun business sessions could be! Jen kept our time correctly, except next time she will admit to nothing!

A fun, serious meeting to begin Easter, complete with eggs and positive, thought-inspiring speeches.
Congratulations, everyone.