29th December Rebecca and Andrews Wedding

So Much has happened this year Lows and Highs....
Today Rebecca Married Andrew and we now have a final good memory from this year to add to lifes photo album of memories...Happy Days and a Beautiful Bride...good luck Bec and Andrew xxx

22nd Dec RC Cardiff Breakfast Host Becky Palmstrong evening

Gutted! cancelled becasue of the weather! Will catch up with Becky when she is home next I hope,

21-12-2010 Continuity meeting

Was supposed to be in Cardiff...but we Skyped it instead! modern technology...and good meeting too..

RC Cardiff West

Oh how disappointing...the weather has cancelled this event off....we will see you all in the New Year.xx

14th December RC Pontypool

A lovely evening with commited Rotarians and their families, Thanks all for the company and friendships.

11th December Santas sleigh and RC Machen

A great chance to speak to santa and help out RC Machen...well done boys...xxx

8th December

farewell Clive...a hard working committed Rotarian now serving at a higher level, R.I.P...

DEC 6TH RC Saundersfoot

A really snowy and dismal day....but still of to Saundersfoot for the final Official Visit...a great welcome and wonderful club,,thnakyou all

And President Keith inducted a new member tonight too who had been a member at RC Ebbw Vale previously...wonderful...

Dec 5th RC Brynmawr Carol service and lunch

A lovely service at Wesley Chapel Nantyglo followed by Lunch at Alice Springs Golf club...
So wonderful to be with my club and their families for a time.x

December 4th A hen night!

Okay I know I'm getting on now...but Bec needed Auntie Donna to hold her hand.....and send me home at 9.30 as I went for it to quickly!!!!

December 3rd RC CWMBRAN VALE XMAS LUNCH

A lovely Lunch with about 130 people all raising funds to help fund local national and international projects..
Merry Christmas and Thankyou..

Nov 30th RC Cardiff West

The newest club gets a visit from the DG...and they seemed to still be interested in Rotary after it too....Good friendships growing already and work being done is really good as well,,,Thanks for the hospitality.

NOV 29th RC Abertillery

A drive back from Alcester in time for this club official Visit...snow kept many away which was a shame...But a good club doing as much as they can and a nice meal too.

NOV 29TH General Council

And Birmingham was frozen...after spending the night in Brum with my sister it was a shock to find the car so frozen...and that was after she had water in her electrics!
But into Alcester and another good debating session in General Council...28 Governors in attendance and lots on the agenda..its refreshing to see how the association operates.

AND A FAMILY PARTY

wonderful catch up with some family and  a good party...xxx Happy Engagement Stevie and Michelle.

Nov 27th RIBI MYR

A snowy trip to Coventry, only just there in time for Dinner..expensive drinks but good company..
then a call Steve had bumped the van in the snow...but he was fine and the vans only metal...

Good Mid Year Review with lots of good feedback from the Districts...

onto Birmingham tonight for a family party...My baby Sister 40 and her daughter 21...now I am old....

Nov 22nd RC Pontllanfraith

This club is so full of fun, and it was so evident.
we were presented with a beautiful picture painted by the Presidents wife, Denise, its beautiful,
The club is truely amazing too doing so much locally and Internationally.

Nov 22nd WELSH YOUTH SPEAKS FINAL

DIOLCH YN FAWR.
a wonderful afternoon of debate in the Welsh Language.

Nov 23rd RC Llandaff

Nov 20th RNIB Black and White Ball

An amazing fundraiser with the RNIB glad we came along following the invite being received.
They do so much in Wales and the UK...so glad they spoke at Conference in October.

Nov 15th RC Neath

A fun club who enjoy each others company, good meal after a good meeting sharing their projects and enjoyment

16th November RC Tenby

A great night and no Drive home as the President has a hotel and gave us a room for the night...the club was individual and fun and does so much fund raising...well done all...

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 13TH-- A FAMILY PARTY IN BIRMINGHAM..

Little Sis and Niece

Uncle Nick and Third Cousin Ben xxx



My Mum and her little brother x



My Mum and little Sis Monica

Lexi tired and pouting!

My Little Sister is now 40! and her daughter 21..a great night with family and friends in Birmingham...and to see my wonderful Uncle Nick...love u all so much..xxx

NOVEMBER 12TH RC BARGOED CASINO NIGHT

NOVEMBER 9TH RC MILFORD HAVEN

A enjoyable evening with new friends as well as old and a chance to share our enjoyment of membership of our organisation

NOVEMBER 10TH MEMBERSHIP MEETING AT PORTHCAWL

A good planning meeting for where we go and how we do it, Thanks for all attending

NOVEMBER 6TH RC PEMBROKES CHARTER NIGHT

A lovely night celebrating 57 years of service and a beautiful bouquet to come with as well....

We were hosted by the President Denver and his lovely wife Pam at their home for the night which was delightful..thanks Denver and Pam xx

I am so priviledged to see and meet so many clubs doing so many wonderful things.

NOVEMBER 7TH ROTARY WELSH DISABLED SPORTS CHAMPIONSHIPS

A wonderful day spent with remarkable people who all loved what they were doing and took part with enthusiasm and love..and all for us all to see totally free of charge.

NOVEMBER 8TH RC EBBW VALE

NOVEMBER 5TH RC BARRY FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA

What a way to celebrate Guy Fawkes night...wow.!

A great display and wonderful work by committed Rotarians who were out in all weathers for the display to 25,000 people!

NOVEMBER 3RD DISTRICT COUNCIL

Well this was the one I was worrying about.....and guess that worry was wasted as it went really well and everyone seemed okay with the chairing of it!

NOVEMBER 2ND RC CARMARTHEN TWYI

An evening of Fellowship with a club who enjoy each others company and do more because they enjoy what they do.

NOVEMBER 1ST RC MUMBLES

A wonderful Visit with Rotarians who are passionate about what they can do and do it well...keep up the good work...

OCTOBER 30TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF CARDIFF WEST CHARTER NIGHT

A great evening where friendships were shared and people celebrated the formation and receiving of the Charter for the newest Club in District 1150...The Rotary Club Of Cardiff West..

President Roy Blacker welcomed everyone and thanked all the Cardiff clubs for their gifts and support during the formation of the new club...

RIBI representative Peter Davey RIBI Membership Chairmans address was very good and spoke of how we need more of us doing what we do to help the world as they need us and when they need us.

OCTOBER 30TH 2010 INNER WHEEL RALLY AT ABERAVON

Me pictured with Association President Pam, and Chairman District 15 Jennifer

Steve and I spent the day in Aberavon Beach Hotel Port Talbot with the Ladies from District 15 Inner Wheel where the British Association President Pam came for the day as well. A really nice day spent with lovely people who are as passionate about what they do as we are in Rotary.

What is Inner Wheel?

Inner Wheel is a caring organisation, not only to its members, but also to others outside its circle. Friendship is the core of all that is done and achieved by members of Inner Wheel. Wherever there is an Inner Wheel Club, no matter in which country, you are made very welcome. Friendship and fun abounds as members work together to help others less fortunate than themselves, not only in this country, but overseas.

Members find so many different ways to organise events that are fun, to help a chosen charity. Ascot days, sponsored cycle rides, parachute jumps or walks, themed dinners, and silent auctions are but a few.

Inner Wheel was formed in 1923, by a group of ladies who decided that they wanted to help with the work of their Rotarian husbands, but to do it in their own way. It is now a worldwide organisation, with over 100 countries having Inner Wheel Clubs. It is an all female organisation and membership is open to female relatives of Rotarians or former Rotarians, Inner Wheel members and Rotaract.

There are 29 Inner Wheel Districts in Great Britain and Ireland, and these correspond with Rotary Districts. There will be an Inner Wheel Club somewhere in your area, so why not get in touch and think about joining us. You will receive a very warm welcome.

This year's International President is Pallavi Shah of the Inner Wheel Club of Bombay West, District 314, India. Pallavi's theme for her year is Commit with conviction, compassion, consistency

The Association President is Pam McConnell her charity is the National Osteoporosis Society working with the Irish Osteoporosis Society.

Inner Wheel in Great Britain & Ireland.

For more information contact the Association Secretary/Administrator

The Association of Inner Wheel Clubs in G.B.&I.

51 Warwick Square, London SW1V 2AT Telephone 020-7834 4600

OCTOBER 28TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF CRICKHOWELL VISIT

OCTOBER 26TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF MACHEN VISIT

OCTOBER 25TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF BRECON VISIT

OCTOBER 21ST 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF CARDIFF ST DAVIDS VISIT

OCTOBER 20TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF SWANSEA BAY VISIT

OCTOBER 19TH 2010 RIBI PROJECTS MEETING IN ALCESTER

OCTOBER 19TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF GOWER AND LLWCHER VISIT

OCTOBER 18TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF LLANTWIT MAJOR VISIT

OCTOBER 18TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF MERTHYR TYDFIL VISIT

OCTOBER 17TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF COWBRIDGE ANNIVERSARY

OCTOBER 14TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF LLANDEILO VISIT

OCTOBER 13TH 2010 ROTARY CLUB OF KNIGHTON VISIT

OCTOBER 12TH 2010 LLANDOVERY

GETTING OVER CONFERENCE 2010 - PLYMOUTH

10-10-2010 DAY THREE CONFERENCE 2010 - PLYMOUTH

09-10-2010 DAY TWO CONFERENCE 2010 - PLYMOUTH




okay..it was an early start so I had to come to the centre with my curlers in!

  Day one of speakers and Conference... good night last night but now the learning starts!

 The Staging is amazing and I am over the moon with what the boys acheived.


  

amazing young people who open the conference telling us About Plymouth...



and The Mayor officially welcomes us too..



I am truely enjoying myself

The theme for this year and my banner.

Speaker Magnus McFarlane Barrow
Marys Meals

08-10-2010 DAY ONE CONFERENCE 2010 - PLYMOUTH

Okay so its busy!!!

and the day starts with a planning meeting



stage preped.....tables ready...stands up and its ready steady go!!!!

hey ho



Getting the stands up and on show





stands getting underway



How good do the televisions in the public area look, sharing what Rotary does can only be beneficial to promote all we do and why...

Steve had prepared our screens on view to the general public and Rotarians alike



Thanks so Much Steve for doing all those powerpoints and to Kelly at the Pavillions for getting us permision for it...

And then its ready to meet our Guests and have the official opening of the Rotary Showcase to all of us by RIBI President Jim Moulson...... 

Lexi adds her backpack to the Marys meals container



Jim opens the Rotary Showcase.

and then back to the Hotel to get ready for the evenings events....a Dinner and then a Fancy Dress party at the Pavillions..the theme Walk Like an Egyptian....











Hugh surprised by his club and us...he is awarded with a PHF +1 an amazing acheivement and award for all teh work he has acheived in organising RYLA for District 1150.





at the pre fancy dress dinner and some dressed ready...





President Howard explaining what Hugh menas to the Club after his award.



OFF TO CONFERENCE 06-10-2010

A day of getting the van loaded and prepared for the Conference in Plymouth...busy busy.....xxx but excited!!!!

07-10-2010 IN PREPERATION

RC Penarth October 5th 2010

And after a busy day we travelled to the Penarth Club - and had a great welcome on their caravan park venue...a wonderful place to meet and good food and fellowships. 

Monday October 4th RC Cowbridge

A lovely evening with people who are passionate about what they do. Thnaks all..

Sunday 3rd October Home from Harrogate

A wonderful conference, good speakers, food and hotel...Thanks Roger and Ann for a great experience.
And we stayed at the Hotel Where Agatha Christie hid ...the Swan Harrogate....but the lift was broke so we stayed fit!

Harrogate Conference District 1040

Off to another friends conference....ours nearly there and hopefully we will enjoy Rogers without thinking we should be doing this or that!

September 30th Conference meeting

A near final meeting to finalise a few things for conference...nearly there...

Tuesday 28th September Out to Windsor with the GSE team.

A early start and a good day with the team from District 3850...and a trip around Windsor Castle as well..

the boat trip was relaxing and the team good fun, good food cooked by John from the RC Rhondda and well the tea wasn't too bad ....but cooked by me!!! hope no one had a bad belly the next day!!!

Monday 27th September

Flying home today from Belfast International Airport...

Wonderful weekend and seeing Auntie Ruth was a real bonus. And she loved her Sky package we had delivered and installed...silly things make a differnece when you live so far from most of the world and that little pressie will bring the world to her door.

Friday 24th September District 1160 Conference

Still amazing, breakfast was lush, Lunch astonishing.
President Mary Mcaleese was inspiring and the other speakers superb..I am so fortunate to be friends with DG Wes and be here....My sister always wanted her wedding here, so now we have to actively find her a spouse so we can have a wedding here, its superb.

http://www.123people.co.uk/ext/frm?ti=person%20finder&search_term=donna%20wallbank&search_country=GB&st=person%20finder&target_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.impalapublications.com%2Fblog%2Findex.php%3F%2Farchives%2F5070-The-Rotary-Centenary-Part-1-The-Speakers%2C-by-Cllr-Dr-Ian-Adamson-OBE.html&section=blog&wrt_id=261

Thursday 23rd September District1160 Conference

In the Slieve Russell Hotel Co Cavan...amazing! whoa!!

Weds 22nd September Flight to Ireland

Bham airport for 6am for a 7am flight...and so many people we nearly didn't get the plane! But arrived safely and got teh hire car before going to Carrickfergus to do some Tesco shopping for my aunt and our stay.

Then its drive to IslandMagee Larne Co Fermanagh to meet my Aunt and stay overnight, we are leaving Mum there for the few days we are of down in Co Cavan at Wes' Conference Dist 1160 is so big I have to stop moaning about driving 3 hrs!

Aunty was so pleased to see us and we her..and then I showed her the wedding pics, she was made up and even got a face book lesson!

Tuesday 21st September RC CARDIFF BAY

Off to Cardiff Bay via home to pick up the cases for flights to Ireland tomorrow...good meal and kind warm welcome by a hard working club. £25.000 a year from car parking...whoa!
So many assisted by a Foundation minded club an amazing acheivement.

Monday 20th September RC Maesteg

A drive around rather than travel home, trouble is you spend money that way!
A lovely welcome and meal and the President was going on holiday the next day...so in a way a good excuse to not stay out too late..Good things being done but could do with a few more hands to ease the workload like so amny clubs.

Monday 20th September RC Cardiff

A driev to Cardiff for lunch with this lovely club. The GSE team and hosts were there as well so a greta opportunity to once again meet them all. The Welcome was great from this Cardiff club, a huge thank you.

Tuesday 21st September RC Aberwystwyth

Lunch Time Visit to Aberwystwyth a big and hard working Club A Long Drive but A warm welcome at the end of it by a very busy hard working club led by a caring and considerate President.
The new Ambassadorial Scholar and his wife were tehre as well so a great opportunity to meet them both.

Sunday 19th September

Bag packing for Conference...all done minus a few hiccups...but ready to be posted on Monday by Conference Registrar Christine, Thanks all..x

Sat 18th September Met the GSE team from District 3850 Philippines

They all arrived safely and on time and all their luggage was with them too!!!
A wonderful warm Welsh welcome awaits them in our District.

September 15th RC's Of Torfaen

First joint meeting tonight...RC's of Cwmbran, Cwmbran Vale, Henllys and Pontypool...

Good meeting and only a few questions...which was good as it may have meant I had covered the topics! or they were fed up of me!!!

Wonderful fellowship at the this mix of clubs all of whom are doing the best they can for their communities, Thanks all for all you do locally Nationally and Internationally. 

SEPT 14TH RC LLANDRINDOD WELLS

A nice drive up to Llandod...for a good meeting with guests and Rotarians, a club being led by an enthusiastic Rotarian President Alan, good fellowships and a mix of stuff being done at local level. It was good to catch up with District Secretary Martyn and Jane before and after the meeting before they get of to France ...yes again!

Bad bit always the drive home afterwards! 

September 14th RC Newport

Lovely meeting with the Newport club today, caught up with IMPDG Bob who has been given an amazing Rotary International job next July onwards. Well done Bob. I was also delighted to catch up with Desrae the club secretary who I had worked with in school for so long.

Great club doing wonderful things and Derek is making sure the Crocuses are going to positioned in good places to get great publicity. 

A Great visit and thanks to all.

September 12th - 13th Conference Visit

Of to Plymouth to check the conference venue and hotel out, crossing the T's and dotting the I's..

back on Monday and go straight to the Ammanfod visit...better remember to pack sensibly actually with that in mind!

And we had a relaxing Sunday whilst still checking out some bits and pieces before meeting Howard and Christine on Monday for all the meetings with the Schools, Hotel, Conference Centre and Bowls Club...wow...we are on fire!!!!

September 13th Ammanford

A great evening with a lovely group of committed Rotarians who know their community and serve it so very well. A wonderful venue which thay are passionate about keeping open as a place the community can use..

Thank you President Alun, and keep up the good work with Air Ambulance Wales as well..

September 10th Caerleon

A really lovely visit to a Club I know so many in, Hugh our District Young Interviewer organiser and Brian a fellow magistrate, as well as others, a good lunch and good company with Rotarians who do what they do well, serve their communities..Thankyou all for a lovely visit.

September 8th Cardiff East

A relaxed drive to get to Cardiff this time....good meeting and well attended Of course President Philip is my friend anyway so I would have expected no less than the attention we received...it was a good reception with sensible comments made and answered. Great Friendships and fellowship here and Rotary is really enjoyed by all in the club.

September 8th Cardiff Breakfast

Woke up and got up 6am...put phone on charge and heck!!!!!!!!!!!! was to be in Cardiff for 7am!!!!
got there only at the Golf club they aren't there today!!!!!! rushed to the Hotel and there they are...Thank God in time and a good meeting.
Great things being done, committed to everything even the rush was worth it here and started the day of well. Thanks All.

September 7th

Visits cancelled today, family calls and Higher Service needs...RIP Gwyneth..xx Night Night XXX

September 6th Lampeter

Leaving Mum alone once more we set of to the unknow territory of Lampeter...and didnt get lost!

lovely evening and company with a club who knows what they are doing and their community well so get on with it. Kistiah was away on Holidays so didn't catch up with him but had a brilliant evening with people who put a much needed smile on my face..Great night.

September 6th Abergavenny

Lunch Locally with a Club I know well. Good meeting and feedback and lovely company. The steam fair is a major activity this club holds and the monies made being shared locally and internationally. Great works and good fellowships. And wonderfful to hear 10 are going to register to come to Conference..

September 2nd Aberaeron yr Cylch

A long journey and we were rather lost so arrived 7 miles away with more than half an hour to spare but still lost and arrived 5 minutes late for the meeting! never mind we were forgiven and the meeting was very good and in normal tradition for this club it was a relaxed and enjoyable evening sharing ideas and thoughts about the works we all do and how it can be improved upon.

Wednesday Sept 1st 2010 RC BRITON FERRY

A lovely evening spent with a club who want to make a difference and really try to, It was a wonderful honour to Induct their first female memebr who was Bills Wife. Bill is the District wenmaster and is on the Conference Committee along with Colin so I knew a few in this club already.

A Good night and nice company with lovely caring Rotarians.

August 30th Highs to Lows

R.I.P Gwyneth.

A day I will never forget and a special person who made her mark, too young at 52 to leave this earth, but God has plans elsewhere for you.

Always remember to forget the things that made you sad,

But Never forget to remember all the things that made you glad... 

August 29th 2010

A few days of from Rotary because today my daughter got married...a delightful, wonderful and uniquely proud moment in a year of pride. Special memories are built from occasions like this and a daughter married means a new son too. Welcome to the family Mark...and no your not seeing things, she did have a bucking sheep as part of the entertainment and yes she got on it and rode the thing! You can take the girl out of the valleys but you can;t take the valleys out of the girl!

August 26th 2010 RC Llanelli

A wonderful visit to a great club and President Melanie had planned her holiday around the Official Visit flying back that morning to ensure she was in post...a delightful club doing magnificent things and making a difference with all they do.

Great to see their Presidents board had been moved so it could be seen by the hotel guest and visitors as well.


thisissouthwales.co.uk%2Fnews%2FRotary-Club-special-guest%2Farticle-2668780-detail%2Farticle.html&section=weblink&wrt_id=216

Just a few emails!

Well the wedding is nearly here so no Rotary was my promise to myself...can't even do that can I!!! I have just spent 2 hours on emails and am glad as I can now have the weekend feeling better that i did it all..and can relax and enjoy my babies special day...

Tell you all about it next week!

RC Llanelli August 26th

In a very Busy week I had planned to visit RC Llanellli as I thought a break from the wedding and celebrations of Steves 50th Birthday might be a welcome relief and was I right...yessseee of course I was!

A great meeting and a wonderful welcome from friends old and new, President Melanie had only flown in from her holidays that morning and had planned such around her work and my visit ...thats dedication!

Lots going on in this club and a club with so much planned including  a matching grant to build an audiology unit in Ghana...amazing work and great visit and even the most awful weather home could not dampen it.

August 20th RYLA- last of this years...

Well another year of RYLA over and again an excellent job done by Rtn Hugh Clatworthy. 100 young people over 4 weeks all having done things and learning things about themsleves and leadership and teamwork. Thanks to all who participated and all who worked for its success.

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards 2010

For the last two weeks of July and three weeks in August, the Dolygaer Outdoor Education Centre played host to RYLA 2010. Dolygaer is situated between the Ponsticill and Pentwyn reservoirs in the Brecon Beacons National Park about five miles north of Merthyr Tydfil. The Centre is on the doorstep of some of the most beautiful and challenging countryside to be found anywhere in the UK. This Outdoor Education Centre was set up by Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council in the early 1970’s and is well used by groups of young people throughout the year. We have based our RYLA courses at the Dolygaer Centre for over ten years.

Following the successes of many RYLA courses in recent years, it made good sense to return to Dolygaer again for 2010, with 97 sponsored students with an average age of 17 attending one of the four RYLA courses. Following the availability of detailed “guidance notes” many of the difficulties experienced in previous years problems were successfully overcome. A goodly number of the students said that they would like to have the benefit of a briefing by the local Rotarians and also the opportunity of speaking to one of the previous year’s RYLA student. All four courses started promptly at 3pm on the Sunday afternoon with introductions, safety instructions and basic ground rules etc.

Sunday afternoon was no easy introduction to the activities at Dolygaer, as straight away the candidates were kitted out, split into three teams and went on a gorge walk which got everyone mixing in together – the teamwork had started. Over the ensuing five days the youngsters tackled caving, rock climbing, abseiling, canoeing, hill walking, orienteering as well as an evening on Rotary topics. By the end of all the four weeks it was apparent that the teamwork was fully established and although worn out the youngsters had a great time. To round off each week there was a barbeque on the Friday evening for parents and visiting Rotarians from all parts of South and Mid Wales.

Around 300 visitors attended the Dolygaer Centre either on the Sunday afternoon arrival and / or the Friday night barbeque making all of this year’s RYLA courses very friendly occasions. The RIBI President Rtn Jim Moulson attended one of the Friday evening barbeques and a Sunday afternoon introduction sessions. Our District Governor Donna Wallbank was able to join us on all of the Sunday afternoons and again for the Friday evening barbeques.

The camaraderie which had built up was plain for all visitors to see, as was the great increase in confidence which had built up in these people over the week when compared with their first meeting on the Sunday afternoon when everyone was very reserved. All the students went home happy but tired having made many new friends and put a number of new challenges behind them.

Leadership is not something that can be instilled in one short week and it would be foolish to suggest that this RYLA course has produced the leaders of the future. What we have done, however, is to take a group of young people from a wide range of abilities and backgrounds from all over the District and get them to work as teams, undertake activities that they might not otherwise try out. From the teamwork they experienced and the confidences they gained, leadership skills should start to emerge.

A by product of the course is the experience of learning to live with other people their own age in an unfamiliar environment – something that many of them will be facing shortly as they leave home to go away to University. We all hope that the RYLA experience will stand then in good stead in later life.

From the Rotary point of view RYLA still represents excellent value for money and I would strongly urge all Clubs to have the maximum contact possible - before, during and after RYLA. Sadly, some students again reported that they had little or no contact with their sponsoring Club; many suggested that they would have liked to have more information at their initial briefing session. I can only suggest that all the 2010 RYLA students are invited to meet potential 2011 RYLA students to obtain “first hand” information about the course and find out more about Dolygaer and the various activities, which form an important part of the RYLA experience.

RYLA Certificates have been handed out to most Club representatives at the Friday evening barbecue. I am hoping that all successful RYLA candidates are invited to a Club function to receive their certificates. This is an excellent opportunity of publicising at least some of the Community activities of your Club by sending a report to your local newspaper.

Thank you all for your ongoing support.

I will be opening the list for the 2011 RYLA courses shortly, once I have finalised dates with the management at Dolygaer.

Off to Alcester for General Council

Another Road to travel on my Rotary Journey this time to Alcester for the First General Council...two days of meeting with 28 others all who are as passionate about their Districts as I am mine...lets see what happens at the end of it and I'll tell you all about it next week. 

August 22nd-23rd RIBI- General Council at Alcester

With a week to the wedding I head of to Alcester! need my head seeing to I think!  however I don't think a family wedding counts as an excusable reason for not representing the District..Steve and Steph will get it sorted though I am sure!....

Anyway The first meeting of the General Council means lots of reading before hand of all those documents! So no rest for the wicked me thinks...I also think I must have been very wicked!!!

August 20th RYLA- last of this years...

August 19th - RC Builth Wells

A great Night with a briliant bunch of Rotarians and their wives who all enjoy each others company and thus do good things in their community. Well done and keep enjoying your Rotary.

August 17th RC Barry Vale

Another Visit but how wonderful it was..relaxed and informal and great work being done locally and Internationally, Well DOne Ann on having a smooth run club kept in order by Quinton, thanks also for putting the Morris Dancers on for my entertainment!and for the Runner Beans and Beetroot from Phil....Have a super year..

Tuesday 17th August Conference meeting

My god this year is going quick and the conference is about 7 weeks away so full steam ahead, good meeting and Howard cracked the whip again, Thnaks Bob and Bill for coming to the back of beyond...Brynmawr...and for all you are doing...x and Howard you and Chris are Stars,,,xx

Tuesday 17th August RC Brynmawr

What hard work it is to be the guest in your own club! but great to be with my friends for an hour or two..

and I inducted two new members Pauline and Laurence so Brynmawr are starting of well....welcome Both of you to a great club who are doing good things locally, nationally and Internationally...Lifestraws has been hard work for some members but has made a huge International differenc, Good Luck David for a great Year.

Monday 16th August RC Porthcawl

What a full house...a warm welcome and a good President in Bill...delivery of inspiration was not marred by Trustee David being there nor DGE Mike and so many officers of district!!!! of course not....although I obviously wondered what notes on my performance were made!!!

However RC Porthcawl do amazing things in their community and outside and deserve a huge pat on the back a good meeting and a nice drive home, although i missed Steve for doing that as he really is my strength, but he had to attaend a funeral and missed all the good humour and warmth of welcome from the Rotaraians there. Thanks AG Sandra for looking after me..xx  

RYLA...Sunday August 15th

The last group for the year, looks like a great group of young people who will as others behind them become greta ambassadors for the clubs sponsoring them. What an amazing opportunity Rotary Clubs give these young leaders of the future..Thanks Hugh and all those who take part in the organising of the events. 

weekend of from Rotary...well until RYLA and thats something not to miss

Weekend off, well working Friday and Sat morning ...then of to Birmingham for the Hen Night there..looking forward to seeing my sisters and Mum and to go out with them...so many years since we have done that together...and of course dressing Steph up!

Not long to the wedding now and so much needs doing..if I see another order of service to ribbon up I will scream...not really!

Then Sunday I will drive home and go to RYLA...good excuse not to drink too much Saturday Night!

Thursday 12th August RC BARRY

A nice drive to Barry to see my friend Don and his club. A great welcome from a club doing well and lots of plans ahead. Can't wait to see their fireworks in November and they promised it won't rain..apparently it never has even if it has been bucketing down all day it stops in time for the display..who has the phone line to God for that to happen..if anyone knows the number let me know it for August 29th please!  

Wednesday 11th August RC LLANISHEN

We went along to RC Llanishens meeting this evening held at the Cardiff Castle Museum, a great venue and revisited since we were there for Jims Visit two weeks ago.

Good food, great fellowship and wonderful people making a difference locally and internationally, keep up the good work. Nice too that the Partners were invited too and good to speak to them about their work alongside their partners.

Tuesday 10th August R.C CEFN SIDAN

A nice drive down west to meet DGN David and Dianne at their home for a coffee and chat and then off to the club meeting. A warm welcome was received and lots of information received about what they have been doing and are about to do. A club that obviously is pleased to have David there as DGN.

Good fun and humour and a warmest of welcomes. The only bad thing was having to drive home with a full belly...but thats a small price to pay for a good evening of fellowship.

http://www.123people.co.uk/ext/frm?ti=person%20finder&search_term=donna%20wallbank&search_country=GB&st=person%20finder&target_url=http%3A%2F%2Ffindarticles.com%2Fp%2Fnews-articles%2Fllanelli-star-dyfed-uk%2Fmi_8143%2Fis_20100818%2Frotary-club-cefn-sidan-news%2Fai_n54839081%2F&section=blog&wrt_id=261

Tuesday 10th August R.C BLACKWOOD

RC Blackwood Lunch Visit a lovely visit meeting all the members and a chance to say Thankyou to Rtn Colin Brace for donating all thsoe Welsh Cakes for the Rotary Stand and also a Big thanks to Howard the Mattress for sleeping over on the Friday Night for the Eisteddfod Sheletr box Sleepover..Thanks all as well for taking your turn on the Stand and letting people know what we are doing in Rotary in District 1150. A good club visit with a club who are doing lots locally and making a difference.

Monday 9th August

Sorry RC Merthyr Tydfil for letting you down, we will rebook in the near future and see you all then.x Thanks for understanding that it has to be Family, work then Rotary.

Sunday 8th August RC Mumbles Champagne Lunch fundraiser for Maggies Cancer Care.

A wonderfull event and great people doing huge things to make sure Maggies happens in Swansea.

Saturday and its over...now to get the tent down...

Friday at the Eisteddfod

Thursday August 5th...no visits...except to the Eisteddfod..

2 left!!!! and just about to get off to meet the others tonight!...

Maybe it will be a bit kinder tonight, it hasn't rained today so that's a good start and the guys from RC Merthyr Tydfil tell me the general public have been very generous on the Maes with our Pakistan distaster appeal...a few Shelterboxes on their way I hope...

tell you more tomorrow.... 

A little drink so we can sleep? my friends from RC Merthyr Tydfil join me in the Shelterbox sleepover challenge..

comfy over there?

A Cwych from Ganesh Before sleep...

Wednesday August 4th RC Narberth and Whitland

Tonight we are off to the RC Narberth and Whitland

And then back to the Shelter box tent on the Eisteddfod site. Alone tonight and its wet the guys from Abertillery tell me, they are trying their hardest to keep the rain out.! might be home early me thinks!!!!

Well we are at Narberth for 7.30 pm and back afterwards so we will be late coming home anyway!

Update..great night at the Narberth Club, full of committed people doing great things and a lovely meal as well. A nice journey home trying to stay awake!

12.01 after midnight arrived at the Eisteddfod site, changed out of business wear into trackies at the side of the Van!!!! I now, know I am roughing it....alone in the tent and asleep straight away...until 2am..then 3am then 4am and then 5am and gave up at 6am and went home!

All in a good cause!!!!

Tuesday 3rd August 2010 RC Port Talbot

Of to Port Talbot for the offcial Visit to their Club.

Unfortunately President Phil had had a triple by pass the day before, so we will forgive him as that seems a reasonable excuse! Seriously Get Well soon Phil....a good visit and company with our Friend PDG Clayton Heycock

And a meeting with the Conference team which went well and seems to be tying up ends well.

its all happening this week...and now theres a picture on the district website of me sleeping with the RIBI Presidnet Jim!!! whoa what a lucky gfirl am I ...Steve and Jim , Mike and Steve and the girls! and and on face book too on the Shelterbox section....

So whats happening at the Eisteddfod and have you been?

http://www.eisteddfod.org.uk/uploads/publications/534.pdf

Conference committee meeting August 3rd 2010

Following the Official Visit to RC Port Talbot, the Conference committee are meeting at the Aberavon Beach Hotel, not long to Conference now and the work is speeding up for it...how hours are needed in a day? all good fun and with wonderful friends who are giving their free time to ensure we have a superb conference..Thanks all..x

August 3rd 2010 Official Visit to RC Port Talbot.

Monday 2nd August Shelterbox Girls nite in..the tent...

Thanks Girls for taking part in the Shelterbox event on the Eisteddfod site last night..another bad back moment for me and I did get a bit of sleep nlike some of my friends with us,....4 more nights left...

How people suffer when they lose everything and what a learning curve this is!

Monday August 2nd - Cardiff radio Interview- RIBI PRESIDENT VISIT

http://www.radioglamorgan.com/

Today before President Jim went back home via RIBI in Alcester for two days of meetings...where does he get his energy? An interview took place at Radio Glamorgan...a lovely visit to see what 6 of the 8  Cardiff participating clubs have acheived and are committed to..Well Done All.. Both Jim and I had a great time. shame we couldn't stay longer but Jim neded to get off to Alcester to chair a couple of meetings...I think he may have been late as I had to be dragged away!

Hope he wasn't toooo late anyway...and keep up the good work at the Hospital Radio