How it all began!

It was early March 2010 and I had just received my latest Joules 'catzine'. For those that don't know what this is - it is a catalogue and magazine all in one. As I settled down with a cup of tea and a 'home made' cake I started browsing the lovely new clothes Joules had to offer. They had a featured titled 'if you do one thing this year - join a WI'. Interesting I thought especially as Joules were tipping it. I always thought the WI was for older ladies and was all, you know, jam and Jerusalem. Its wasn't that I can't bake but the WI does have a old fashioned perception and being 31, good career, even better social life I was not sure if it would suit me but hey if my favourite fashion brand were suggesting it maybe it was something that would be right for me. After all I loved sewing, baking, meeting new people and learning and so I looked online found the Isle of Wight federation page and emailed them to see how I could join.........
to be continued.......

Hello!

Hello .....
I have thought about it on and off for oh about a year. I have imagined what I'd put on it and now I am here BLOGGING!
So please bear with me as I am new to this..... So you might ask why now? Well after setting up a brand new WI in May 2010 and at the time being 31, I was probably one of the youngest presidents. So much has happened in the last 18 months with the WI that I feel some of the stories are too good not to share and so this blog will yes be current, but will also reflect on my decision to set up a WI, the hurdles to get over at the beginning and still nearly 2 years in, why we are very different to a normal WI group and why I think all ladies from as early as possible should take inspiration and join or set up a WI.
I hope you find this blog fun and entertaining but more importantly inspiring!
Zoe Stroud
Cowes WI President
xx