A note from AndreaHello everyone, and welcome to the June newsletter. I’m Andrea, founder of my widowed friends, and I send these updates each month to share what’s happening across our growing community. Our groups are built around something very simple: rebuilding a social life by having a cuppa with friends. It’s easy, informal, and something to look forward to each week. The mwf Summer LunchPlans are now complete for our first county-wide event, and we will be meeting on 17th July- it will soon be here. I would love to get some photos of this event. Are any of you willing to take plenty of photos? Please let me know- you don’t need to be a professional, just keen to help. A thought for this month- making Summer fit your needsJune often brings a rush of sunshine and events: gardens, lunches, holidays, and gatherings. For many people, it’s the first time in the year that social life feels visible again. But for those rebuilding life after loss, summer can be a mixed season: lovely because of the light and weather, yet sometimes full of reminders of what’s changed. This month, I want to focus on making Summer suit you- not filling it up because you feel you should. It’s about choosing rest, company, or solitude without guilt, whenever you need to. A walk in the cool of the morning, a chat over coffee, or simply sitting outside with the sound of birds- these small things can be enough sometimes. They’re the ordinary moments that help life feel more settled again. If you aren’t ready for Summer weddings, friends barbeques and outings, then just say no. You don’t have to fit in with what other people expect of you. In the same way, if your social life has ground to a halt and you feel ready for more, then look around to find events you would like to go to- a Summer Fete, a book club, a Church social. Don’t sit at home wanting company and don’t sit in company wanting to be at home. Do Summer your own way. New to the groups?If you’re thinking about coming along for the first time, there’s no need to worry about fitting in or knowing anyone. Almost everyone arrives not knowing a single person, and within a few weeks they usually feel at home. There’s no pressure and no expectations- just turn up, have a coffee, and see what happens. Introducing a friendIf you have a widowed friend who might benefit, you’re welcome to bring them along once to see what it’s like. If they enjoy it and want to come again, they can join via the website. We normally keep meetings for members only so everyone knows the group is widowed‑only, but this “bring a friend” option is there for friends of existing members. Group newsGroups running:
Falmouth-Harbour, Falmouth-Gylly, Hayle, Helston, Launceston, Liskeard, Newquay, Saltash, St Austell, Truro-Central, and Wadebridge. We also have a waitlist for a group in Camborne. All groups are open for new members to join. Plans for the futureOver the next few months, I’ll be encouraging more people to join our groups and spreading the word about us. You can help- mention us to your friends, your family, your doctor, anyone who might tell other widowed people about us. A busy group is a healthier group and a more rewarding place for members to meet. Ask me if you want leaflets or contact cards to give to people. I am also planning to start groups in Devon- this will likely be later this year or early next year. Stay connectedVisit our website: http://www.mywidowedfriends.co.uk/ Find us on Facebook: my widowed friends Email Andrea: andrea@mywidowedfriends.co.uk And finallyA group of strangers slowly becomes a group of friends when people keep coming back. Thank you to those of you who turn up each week and create the warmth and welcome that others rely on. You turn strangers into friends and make the groups what they are. Take care in the sunshine- It’s been a hot start to Summer. Andrea | 