Dear Members,
During May Paula and I were pleased to host a summer BBQ and an afternoon tea at our home in Lliber, to raise funds for our own U3A Goodwill team and for Paws Dog Rescue in Jalon, where we both volunteer - Paula in the shop and myself at the kennels. Each organisation benefitted to the tune of nearly 1,200 euros.
It was not just the money raised that was important. It was also clear that everyone thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere, the food and drink and the excellent entertainment provided by our very own Paul and Jude. However, none of this would have been possible without the hard work of our team of helpers, not just on the day itself but also during the weeks of preparation for the two events.
This made me reflect on the many friendships we have made since we arrived in Spain five years ago (the majority of which can be traced back to either Paws or the U3A) and on the quality of life that we enjoy together here on the beautiful Costa Blanca.
I was also reminded of a recent conversation with one of our new joiners. When I asked her why she had decided to join the U3A now, despite having lived in the area for many years, she remarked on the sense of community and friendship that she had observed among our U3A members and which she had not encountered in other groups.
My message therefore to any potential new members, reading this and thinking of joining (or rejoining) us, is don’t hesitate! Come and enjoy the pleasure and fun that comes from doing and learning things together and the comfort of being part of a community of like-minded people.
To our existing members, both new and long standing, I wish you all the very best in what is forecast to be another hot summer. I look forward to many more shared experiences after the summer break.
Best wishes
Chris
June 2024