Swish Mary

What an afternoon. Brilliant! It couldn't have been better. Last Sunday ensured that I reached my target for VSO. But what was even better was there was much fun to be had. Aunt Mary and Anne were tireless in getting things organised. Those who had been invited gladly handed over their ticket money and the games commenced. Firstly we had a free raffle, and even I was surprised to see the VSO t-shirt was not left to last and was taken up as a a welcome prize. (Please Theresa let me know what you did with it!!!!) This set the mood and people relaxed, along with a few G&Ts. Next Alice performed a rather fetching Fashion Show of the quality of goods available. People were eager to get going. Then the countdown and the rush began. All goods donated were unwanted/unused/forgotten-about gifts passed on. Everyone wanted something some-one else had discarded! To avoid disappointment - or create it and to raise funds, the most popular items were auctioned off. We may have started the bidding at 20p but many items went for £15. I couldn't believe it! From new linen to perfume to jewellery and crystal glasses all items were snatched up. There was a very heated moment when the video of 'One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest' went for a greater price than could have been bought at Asda. But then again there is no price on love. Maureen was determined to re-live her first date! I am also mad at Nuala outbidding me on the Kenzo. Enjoy! Those items not bid for in the auction went to whoever wanted them and donations were asked for. Plastic bags were found for those who had a successful day and went home with more than they donated in the first place. No-one went home empty handed or on empty stomachs. Mary and Anne were once again the epitome of superwomen. Food aplenty was had by all, finished up with hand decorated fairy cakes!

To finish off the afternoon we had the raffle, which alone raised over £200! I was delighted that so many people from different areas of friends and family enjoyed a prize. Some people won on the free raffle and the main raffle - well done Maura! I was just sorry that the tennis team never won a prize. I was humbled by the generous gifts donated for the raffle and I cannot leave this blog without thanking those who doanted. THANKYOU to:
Tony McKee for the day Spa
Aiden McGeady for personalsing the jersey
Julie Claire Florists for the flowers
Rachel Goldie at ARC for the regenerist facial
Tina Steenberg for the relaxation session
Essential Beauty for the massage
Helen Byers for the fruit basket.

But most of all I thank all of you who contributed to the Swish Day, both in items and your particiaption. And of course to Mary and Anne without whom none of this would have been possible. I have no doubt this will not be the last we see of Swish Days in the Southside. What a great fun day. Thankyou one and all!!!!