Well, I’m pleased to be able to report that the volunteers’ party went ahead without any hitches, and was a great success. As far as I’m aware, everyone was there who should have been there – I was about to say “All present and correct”, but, going on memory, there wasn’t a register. The sub-committee organised a wonderful spread, the weather was kind to us, and it was a great time to chat, enjoy some outdoor games, and, of course, eat. The party happened to coincide with our deputy manager Helen’s, 30th birthday, so we celebrated her as well. Thank you, Dee Dees, for the sky-high cake – it looked amazing! (You’ll know what I mean if you saw it.)
The highlight of the afternoon was presenting Peter Goldsworthy’s widow, Anne, with a plaque to honour his achievement. Peter was the inspiration and instigator behind what is now our community shop. Just remember: Beside every great man there’s a great woman. It’s now in pride of place by the entrance to the shop. Do make a point of admiring it.
It goes to show that it all depends on your perspective. Several months ago, we sadly bid farewell to a very loyal and hardworking volunteer. Well, to our general rejoicing, she is still to be seen behind the counter volunteering for the odd shift here and there. But, would you believe it, when I expressed my thanks to her, she told me she felt a fraud, and that she had left under false pretences! Honestly, we’re always thrilled to see you – you know who you are!
Now it might have been because I’d been given extra tasks on my shift the previous day, and Helen, and her trusty accomplice, Vivian, felt she needed to be nice to me, but the post office service truly surpassed itself this month. Plucking up all my courage, I took a letter that – wait for it – already had a stamp on into the post office and asked if it could still be tracked. I’ve always bought the stamp and tracking service together before, as it should be done. “Yes,” was the answer, and I was even offered a choice of ‘Signed for’, or ‘Proof of Posting’! I would never have had the nerve to ask anywhere else.
According to Angus, our manager, we are about to enjoy a wonderful summer, filled with long, warm, sultry evenings sitting around the BBQ holding glasses of Pimms. Perfect! But wait! Where is the ice? Disaster and Ruination threaten! But hush, look – Is it a bird? Is it a plane? … No, it’s … Supershop to the rescue! We’re at the ready, all prepared with extra bags of ice to save the day. Best get yourself down here as quickly as possible and stock up while you can, I say.
And, of course, our ice cream machine will be ever-popular in the weather we’re about to have as well! Well, already enjoying, actually.
Jean Burden