On Tuesday 21st June 2016, the longest day of the year, Cherry Lodge was treated to a Milly Day outing. The Milly Days charity gives ‘people who are in need of some peace and a chance to recharge’ the opportunity to spend a sponsored day at a beautiful riverside property in Buckinghamshire. This was the third year running that Cherry Lodge has been very kindly invited.
Some 30 of us – members, staff and one very lucky volunteer (the writer of this news item) – were most enjoyably driven by Eddie to this wonderful venue on the banks of the River Thames. Being greeted by Emma on behalf of Milly Days on our arrival added a particularly welcoming touch and, as people have enthusiastically written in previous years, the entire day spent in these gorgeous surroundings just feels like a dream.
There were plenty of like-minded individuals with whom to sit and chat. Alternatively, there was ample space to be quiet and soak up the truly lovely views from the river banks. People also enjoyed seeing the swan’s nest and the amazingly life-like sheep sculptures, as well as just waving at passing boats. Eight passengers at a time can go on Milly Belle, a rather superior motorboat, whose excellent skipper, John, is only too willing to help volunteers to steer the boat along the river. Although this proved to be a much more difficult activity than expected, for at least one person, steering Milly Belle was undoubtedly the highlight of the day.
Water enthusiasts swam in the pool, dived in, splashed down the chute or sedately sat with their legs in the jacuzzi – whatever felt most comfortable. There was also the opportunity to play badminton on the lawn or have a go on the trampoline. All these activities are part of a stunning day out, offered so generously by Gina (see final photo, below), Simon, Emma and their very helpful staff.
Our delicious lunch, prepared as in previous years by The Coffee Bean in the Spires, was rounded off with an ice cream. Also, one member of our group, Phoebe, celebrated her birthday (note small cake and candle in photo 11, below) and, hopefully, the day was a happy one for her and she was not put off by our singing! For many of us the best treat of all was the strawberries and cream served just before we departed, all clutching our lovely bright green goody bags.
What a super day! A huge thank you to Milly Days for, yet again, enabling Cherry Lodge to have such a delightful outing!
Click on the small images below to see larger, complete photographs.
