That was the year that was!
In December the Norfolk Broads took our “Soxers” out for an airing and treated them to a showing of White Christmas at a local Ex Cinema. A brilliant day. Fabby Red Hat decorated cinema, Red Hatty decorated Christmas Trees, great finger buffet, flowing wine, popcorn, a showing of our very own Norfolk Broads Red Hat DVD of the past year to kick start the afternoon and our very own Lady Bowbelle serving ice cream – What a day!
A trip to a nearby Church where they annually have over 90 Christmas Trees on display. This was a Bus Pass trip for us with lunch at a pub and in and out of a few Charity Shops in passing plus finding a Chocolate Factory. Another lovely Norfolk Broads day out.
Over 80 gorgeous Norfolk Broads Red Hatters glammed up to the hilt held their Christmas Lunch at a local hotel. Super “Secret Santa” gifts for all. Delightful food and the compliments on what a wonderful lunch it was are still streaming in to us. Far too many photos were taken to send to you but this is just a smattering of what it was like.
And we finished off 2013 with a good ole one of our annual hoots - a Christmas Carol Sing-A-Long ending up as usual with everyone doing the 12 Days of Christmas, never in the right order. Majestic Margaret and her Soxer always put on a smashing meal and provide a pianist to help us sing-a-long. Another Fun Filled Red Hat Year now over.............
A trip to a nearby Church where they annually have over 90 Christmas Trees on display. This was a Bus Pass trip for us with lunch at a pub and in and out of a few Charity Shops in passing plus finding a Chocolate Factory. Another lovely Norfolk Broads day out.
Over 80 gorgeous Norfolk Broads Red Hatters glammed up to the hilt held their Christmas Lunch at a local hotel. Super “Secret Santa” gifts for all. Delightful food and the compliments on what a wonderful lunch it was are still streaming in to us. Far too many photos were taken to send to you but this is just a smattering of what it was like.
And we finished off 2013 with a good ole one of our annual hoots - a Christmas Carol Sing-A-Long ending up as usual with everyone doing the 12 Days of Christmas, never in the right order. Majestic Margaret and her Soxer always put on a smashing meal and provide a pianist to help us sing-a-long. Another Fun Filled Red Hat Year now over.............
The Debonaires of Weston-super-Mare wish you "Frohe Weihnachten"
The by now traditional Christmas German Tea Party was a little small this year. But at least there were members from both chapters in Weston super Mare AND not to forget their Sock Monkeys – all four of us are members of the Sock Monkey Sisterhood!
The 50 Shades of Red and Purple Women of Kings Lynn have concluded their ambition to rearrange the year. Having had Christmas on the summer solstice, we had to walk on the beach then eat fish and chips in December.
The dining rooms of the Martime Museum in Liverpool's historic Albert Dock were the venue of the Liver Birds' Christmas Lunch
We stole the show!
(but the gold coach is safe!)
"I had a wonderful time in London at the Lord Mayor's Show!" writes Lady Jingle Bells. (Saturday 9th November 2013)
It poured with rain, in true British tradition, but our Red Hat party (led by the London Red Hatters) made a point of cheering and waving at every item in the procession, heckling (nicely), singing along with the bands and so on, and got lots of response back. We sang a chorus of 'All the Nice Girls Love a Sailor' for every naval contingent that passed by and they variously blushed, grinned or, where allowable, waved or called back.
The City dignitaries in their coaches waved at us specially (ignoring the people on the other side of the road!) and the Lord Mayor herself waved so enthusiastically she might almost have been a member.
We had a light lunch at a very reasonably priced Italian restaurant nearby, with very attentive waiters, where we were joined by the Fen Fatales, who had been watching from a stand; and afterwards I went for a mooch round Covent Garden and a cup of tea with the Liver Birds contingent."
***
It was totally impractical getting our cameras out in the pouring rain whilst at the same time trying to hold our umbrellas up, keep our hats on, and stop the rain from dripping off our umbrellas into our sleeves! So here are some pictures from indoors.
It poured with rain, in true British tradition, but our Red Hat party (led by the London Red Hatters) made a point of cheering and waving at every item in the procession, heckling (nicely), singing along with the bands and so on, and got lots of response back. We sang a chorus of 'All the Nice Girls Love a Sailor' for every naval contingent that passed by and they variously blushed, grinned or, where allowable, waved or called back.
The City dignitaries in their coaches waved at us specially (ignoring the people on the other side of the road!) and the Lord Mayor herself waved so enthusiastically she might almost have been a member.
We had a light lunch at a very reasonably priced Italian restaurant nearby, with very attentive waiters, where we were joined by the Fen Fatales, who had been watching from a stand; and afterwards I went for a mooch round Covent Garden and a cup of tea with the Liver Birds contingent."
***
It was totally impractical getting our cameras out in the pouring rain whilst at the same time trying to hold our umbrellas up, keep our hats on, and stop the rain from dripping off our umbrellas into our sleeves! So here are some pictures from indoors.
Ladies 'Aving a Ball
Ladies 'Aving Fun, Cleckheaton, went bowling for the first time recently, and say it will not be the last.
Oo err missus! Big balls!
Oo err missus! Big balls!
They also had their photo in the local paper when they went to see "Carnaby Street" at the Alhambra in Bradford.
"That was a great show and we ended up clapping, singing and twisting along to music from the 60's (and we all knew the words!)" writes Queen Margaret.
"That was a great show and we ended up clapping, singing and twisting along to music from the 60's (and we all knew the words!)" writes Queen Margaret.
JUNGLE JANES
Scarlet Sparkles Marion Her Maj of the Rose Madder Reds, Benfleet writes: "A couple of pics from our Summer Garden Party - one of Racing Grannies game and the second is our hostess, Duchess Millie of the Royal Borough of Greenwich. The theme was Jungle/Animal Prints. We had Bush Tucker Trials, Pinning the Tail on the Croc, Rat Down a Drainpipe, Red Thong Relay Race (photos censored! ) and lots more. It was a day full of laughter food and drink. Long live red hatting!"
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My Fair Ladies Day
"My Fair Ladies" has just celebrated its annual 'Noughtie Tea Party' - a celebration for all ladies who have had a birthday this year ending in '0' and our chapter anniversary combined. Attached is a photo of Pam (aka Lady Snowdrop) who is 80 this year and the Red Mat meerkat presented at the do.
DARE DEVILS!!!
Waterside Red Devils went Segway Riding at Marwell Activity Centre. Everyone got the hang of it and completed the circuit - even the hills. Thanks to Steve and Charlie for their patient training, They believe that one of our members, at 87 years, was their oldest ever participant.
LIVE LIFE TO THE FULL!!!!
LIVE LIFE TO THE FULL!!!!
MAD AS A HATTER - IN THE NICEST WAY!
These were taken at The Cotswold Gems 'Mad Hatters' Tea Party held at Marchionness of Mayshill's lovely home a few weeks ago. The ladies made 'Mad Hats' and enjoyed a beautiful summer's afternoon. Delicious sandwiches (sans crusts), cakes, scones with cream and jam followed by a game of Boules on the lawn.
"No only did we have a fantastic afternoon - Eileen and her 3 sisters really did us proud. As if that wasn't enough, the money we raised they generously donated to The Alzheimers Society" wrote Queen Margo.
"No only did we have a fantastic afternoon - Eileen and her 3 sisters really did us proud. As if that wasn't enough, the money we raised they generously donated to The Alzheimers Society" wrote Queen Margo.
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Out clubbing
Sunny Hunny Belles at their regular watering hole the Hunstanton United Services Social Club enjoying the food, a few drinks and lots of compliments.
COR, LOVE A DUCK!
The Bardwell Batty Bees had a day out with a difference when they took to the water - without their red galoshes - on the London Duck. It was Friday 13th too! That's confidence for you!
Ey-oop! Stop ye mytherin' an sit thissen dahn
The Cleckheaton Ladies 'Aving Fun did just that in the "Wrinkled Stocking" - the tea shop now situated in Norah Batty's house in Holmfirth. Here they are pictured taking a great risk standing on Norah Batty's pristine steps, and taking an even bigger risk going into Compo's house (now the Last of the Summer Wine Museum). Let's hope the ferrets were safely locked up. And Compo too come to think of it!
YOU WAIT ALL YEAR FOR A BIRTHDAY AND THEN THREE COME AT ONCE ...
Red Hot Chilli Hatters from Penzance celebrating three very special birthdays - Christine Lady Walkabout, Maxine Queen Cracklin' Rosie and Pat Lady Fatty Patty pictured here cutting the Red Hat Birthday cake at a fantastic garden party with 30 others in Claire's garden.
Gathering of the Clans
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International relations were the order of the day when three chapters met for lunch at the Fratry (that is spelt correctly), Carlisle Cathedral on Thursday 5th September.
The two chapters from Scotland were The Hawick Belles and The Dolly Mixtures from Dumfries, whilst holding the sassenach end up were The Ladies of Lakeland from Egremont, Cumbria.
The two chapters from Scotland were The Hawick Belles and The Dolly Mixtures from Dumfries, whilst holding the sassenach end up were The Ladies of Lakeland from Egremont, Cumbria.
On Ilkley Moor with 'at!
Well, not quite Ilkley, but Cleckheaton '"Ladies 'aving Fun" did invade Harrogate. Raised lots of laughs, quizzical looks and the usual questions, but the best comment was from a group of younger ladies who asked us if we were French, because we 'look so elegant'! Valley Gardens is spectacular at any time of the year, but our presence made it even brighter as you can see from the photos. A couple of our ladies did venture into Bettys Tea Room - the rest of us settled for the less pricey (and not quite as elegant) pavillion in the gardens for lunch. The soft Yorkshire rain kept off and we had a fantastic day.
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The Lowestoft Silver Dahlings
have changed their weekly venue to the new Wetherspoons in Lowestoft. We now meet every Monday morning, apart from Bank Holiday Mondays, in the Joseph Conrad Pub/restaurant. We have been very warmly welcomed by the staff there and they now reserve us a lovely area overlooking Station Square. The photo below is of the first day we met here. Our chapter seems to be rapidly growing lately so this is a great venue for us with lots of room to enjoy our weekly get together.
have changed their weekly venue to the new Wetherspoons in Lowestoft. We now meet every Monday morning, apart from Bank Holiday Mondays, in the Joseph Conrad Pub/restaurant. We have been very warmly welcomed by the staff there and they now reserve us a lovely area overlooking Station Square. The photo below is of the first day we met here. Our chapter seems to be rapidly growing lately so this is a great venue for us with lots of room to enjoy our weekly get together.
And the dog did the dishes!
A Garden Party was held at Lowestoft Silver Dahlings' Queen Tricifizz's domain in August to compensate for her birthday in January which was cancelled due to the snow. "Shame my dog is disgracing herself by clearing up the plates," wrote Tricia. I am sure the Royal Corgis do the same!
TRAFFIC STOPPERS!
Swaffham Sparklers came to Sunny Hunny on a lovely day 19th August to join Sunny Hunny Belles in a coffee morning at our favourite Cafe - Cafe Blah Blahh... We had a wonderful happy get-together. The Owner Andrew took his life in his hands taking this lovely photograph, standing on the busy road, holding up the traffic, but everyone was smiling, seeing the "funny side" - It's what we do!!!!
Crimson Coasters' Cathedral Caper
The Crimson Coasters of Arundel recently enjoyed a walk around the walls of Chichester Cathedral. Queen Carolyn wrote: "Pictured are some of our group in the grounds of the Cathedral. Then it was best of British Selsey crab and salad followed by English strawberries from Hants. Good food, good wine and great company."
PAINTING THE PALACE RED
- AND PURPLE!
The Marlow Angels visited Buckingham Palace on 5th August. Carol Sutton writes: "We had a great day there and the tour was very interesting and enjoyable. It only lasted just over an hour but you can make it as long or as short as you want as you go around on your own with headphones for the guided tour. We had a nice snack lunch in the Palace cafe in the grounds afterwards. A minibus arranged to take us to and from Marlow. All in all a great day out."
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Broadly speaking - every picture tells a story
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When in London ...
Here are a few photos of the London Redhatters enjoying themselves - at The Globe theatre where we had a conducted tour, with the Chelsea Pensioners at Governors Day, with all the London Lord Mayors dancing round the maypole at the Costermongers Harvest Festival, and eating ice cream at Fortnum and Masons.
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MEETING MAUREEN
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Some of the Liver Birds and friends went to Ormskirk Market on Thursday 22nd August to meet up with an American Red Hatter from California. Maureen (tall lady in red top) is originally from Liverpool (Bootle) but went to America to work as a secretary when they were crying out for them about 50 years ago! Maureen is staying with her 88 year old aunt in Wigan and is then travelling on to Ireland to catch up with family there.
Cream of Cornish - and a drop of Cracklin' Rosie
The Red Hot Chilli Hatters from Penzance at Little Pengelly's Farm having just been to Godolphin House (NT) for a walk, then a wonderful Cornish cream tea at Pengelly's.
Queen Cracklin' Rosie fell flat on her face on the walk but covered it up by telling the girls it was a Health and Safety Demo on how not to fall over in the woods!!! Did they believe it - did they hell !!!
Queen Cracklin' Rosie fell flat on her face on the walk but covered it up by telling the girls it was a Health and Safety Demo on how not to fall over in the woods!!! Did they believe it - did they hell !!!
Red Hatters get passionate!
St Leonards Ladies of Horsham and the Blueberry Muffins of Worthing certainly got in the spirit of the theme of the month for July of Passion with a visit to Passion Play in London on 18 July starring Zoe Wannamaker, which included a question and answer question with the cast afterwards.
In true Red Hat Fashion we managed to eat lunch beforehand and tea and cake afterwards and altogether had a ball. Here is a photo of our group plus a few other passing Red Hatters.
50 Shades of Midsummer Madness
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50 Shades of Red and Purple Ladies of Kings Lynn latest crazy event took place on midsummer's night!!! We celebrated a full Xmas 3 course meal for all our local chapters at the Deers Leap occupying the whole restaurant holding 54 people.
We had Father Xmas with his presents, a knicker tree where all pieces of red underwear were thrown on entering the room (!!) and musical entertainment courtesy of the pub manager.
The meal was superb – seating was arranged so that no lady sat next to another in the same chapter resulting in new friendships made!!!
What can we, of the 50 shades, do next?????? It doesn't bear thinking about!!!
We had Father Xmas with his presents, a knicker tree where all pieces of red underwear were thrown on entering the room (!!) and musical entertainment courtesy of the pub manager.
The meal was superb – seating was arranged so that no lady sat next to another in the same chapter resulting in new friendships made!!!
What can we, of the 50 shades, do next?????? It doesn't bear thinking about!!!
Poole celebrates Harry Paye Day
On 15th June the Pearls of Poole and a gathering of pirates honoured the memory of Harry Paye, the renowned Poole pirate, with live music, street entertainment, family fun, rowing races and a pirate procession. They were joined on the day by the meanest of pirates from Bedford. I wonder where she parked her brig?
Nothing Mundane About Mundesley
say Crawley Titfer Tats
Taken at Mundesley, Norfolk, what a great weekend!
Crawley Red Hatters attending – Joy Buchan, Win Duggan, Liz Diamond, Chris Foran, Joy Potter, and Alison Dixie
and a good time was had by all
WELL DONE - ANOTHER GREAT WEEKEND, THANKS MUNDESLEY! (AND RAY AND EILEEN OF COURSE) x
From VQ Joy Pitcher
Crawley Red Hatters attending – Joy Buchan, Win Duggan, Liz Diamond, Chris Foran, Joy Potter, and Alison Dixie
and a good time was had by all
WELL DONE - ANOTHER GREAT WEEKEND, THANKS MUNDESLEY! (AND RAY AND EILEEN OF COURSE) x
From VQ Joy Pitcher
Blah Blah Blah and all that jazz!
The Sunny Hunny Belles are our newest chapter! Welcome to Queen Margaret Dixie and the ladies from Hunstanton, Norfolk's finest! Their first get-together was at Cafe Blah Blahh - with their high kicks and jazz hands
drawing the attention of the local press!
drawing the attention of the local press!
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Crimson Coasters at Arundel Cathedral
For over 100 years, Arundel Cathedral has celebrated the feast of Corpus Christi with a festival of flowers, which includes a magnificent carpet of flowers in the central aisle of the Cathedral. "This year" writes Queen Carolyn Hatty-Go-Lucky, "the carpet had less flowers than usual (due to costs etc.) and the ladies do all the work from a paper pattern - on their knees! Ouch!! It takes hours of work and is quite spectacular, then on the evening of Corpus Christi there is a procession from the castle to the cathedral when they walk on the carpet. Can you imagine all that hard work, only to be trampled on a couple of days later!!"
Hobnobbing with the Ladies of Lakeland
Spotted hobnobbing by the Red Hat Snapperazzi today (11/06/2016) was Patrick Gorden-Duff-Pennington, the owner of Muncaster Castle. Eight members of the Egremont chapter, Ladies of Lakeland, visited the privately owned castle overlooking the Esk river, about a mile east of the west-coastal town of Ravenglass in Cumbria, England. It has been designated by English Heritage as a Grade I listed building. The whereabouts of Mr Patrick's left hand might account for the look on the face of the second lady on the right!
York Scarlet Ladies are Gold - Terry's Gold!
The York Scarlet Ladies had an interesting visit recently at Goddards, an historical house and gardens in York, followed by cream tea. Goddards is an intriguing house crafted for Noel Terry (he of Terry's chocolate fame!) and his family, close to the factory he ran.
"!t's a chocolate box of memories from York's 1930s heyday" writes Queen Sassy Rebel Chris. "If anyone is planning a visit to York I can recommend this and the York Scarlet Ladies will be happy to greet them."
With 7 floors to explore, a great insight into the family life of the Noel Terry family and famous chocolate factory, as well as the tea-rooms and shop, who could resist!
"!t's a chocolate box of memories from York's 1930s heyday" writes Queen Sassy Rebel Chris. "If anyone is planning a visit to York I can recommend this and the York Scarlet Ladies will be happy to greet them."
With 7 floors to explore, a great insight into the family life of the Noel Terry family and famous chocolate factory, as well as the tea-rooms and shop, who could resist!
Red Hot Chilli Anniversary
This is an anniversary photo of the Red Hot Chilli Hatters taken at Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens in Penzance - St Michaels Mount is in the background - a lovely evening and a great meal.
Maxine - Queen Cracklin' Rosie
Maxine - Queen Cracklin' Rosie
50 SHADES OF RED AND PURPLE
50 PORTIONS OF STRAWBERRY DELIGHT!
Just a few pictures of our trip to Cambridge Strawberry Fair where we bought hats, got stuck in a restaurant loo, found a cafe named just for us!! And drank wine on the train home celebrating the Vice Queen's birthday. We even handed out our business cards to around 10 – 15 ladies eager to join their local chapter (one asked in the "Ladies"!!) Great time had by us all, writes VQ Kathy, Lady Knowalot. She knows you know!!!!!
Cleckheaton Ladies 'Avin Fun! (Budge up and let me in!)
The weather was not the best for May - but that did not stop 5 of us enjoying ourselves at Oakwell Hall and Country Park, Birstall, on the 30th May. The muddy walk round the park, the interesting visit to the historic hall was topped off by a visit to the slide - nothing could dampen our enthusiasm! This was followed by a lovely lunch in The Old Silk Mill close to the park. We not only brightened ourselves, the day, but other visitors to the attractions.
Happy Hatting,
Margaret (Queen Lady Lovely Legs)
Queen Lindy Lou celebrated her birthday in the company of her Ruby Belles with lunch, cream cakes and a wonderful birthday cake created by Chris! Many happy returns Linda!
The Ramsgate Red Hatters were at the St Lawrence Tavern celebrating their second birthday. Congratulations to Jackie and the ladies!
Vintage Biddy's? Just less of the old!
On the 9th May fourteen of the Bardwell Batty Bees went into Norwich to see a matinee performance of "Jersey Nights" and then went for a “Mad Hatters Tea Party” at Biddy’s Vintage Tea Rooms. And not a jersey nightie in sight!
50 SHADES OF AARRRRGH!
Below are some of the many pictures King's Lynn's 50 Shades of Red and Purple took on our pirate crazy golf day on Hunstanton on 10th May. Some pirates came by bus much to the amusement of the other trippers; some by car, but surprisingly none by boat. Despite blustery coastal winds and spots of rain the unanimous decision was that the show must go on and so we had coffee at Sea Life and in 3's we challenged each other to an 18 hole round of crazy golf in a lovely setting. We are not sure who won but it was enjoyed by all. Margaret, Sharman and myself (Kathy) found some quad bikes which we climbed on and raced around until our £1 ran out!! (Well Sharman and I did!!) and we reluctantly made our way back to a lovely cafe named Blah Blahhs and finished off with coffee and brunch being fussed over by the staff after our ordeal on the golf course!
Singin' in the Rain?
Walking on sunshine say the Gadabouts!
Taken at Kings Cross Station on their way to see Singin in the Rain on 9th May, the Gadabout Girls from Wisbech were joined on the train by lovely new bride-to-be Dianne and her Mum who enjoyed hearing about the Sensational Red Hat Society. Great day writes Queen Carol.
The Liver Birds, Pink Martini
and the Liverpool Phil
Shaken AND stirred! A great night of fabulous, sexy music!
Music Hall is alive and well!
On 3rd May the Fiery Fascinators of Hitchin in Hertfordshire supported their Lady Limelight, Angela, who directed the Welwyn Thalian's Old Time Music Hall! An excellent show plus a fish and chip supper. What more could we ask!
Happy St. George's Day!
A BATTY WAY TO BLOW AWAY COBWEBS!
The Bardwell Batty Bees went for a walk on Old Hunstanton beach on April 12th to blow away the winter cobwebs. Here the ladies are warming up after their walk. Queen Dorry took the photo.
LOOKING LIVELY IN LEWES
(AND LOVELY TOO!)
Queen Daisy and the Lewes Livelies celebrated their first birthday recently and attracted the interest of the local press - as we Red Hatters do!
"There was a colourful group of jolly ladies in Symposium, Lewes, this month. The Red Hats and purple clothing made them very easy to identify. They were celebrating their First Birthday as a group of delighted Red Hatters. This cheery group of ladies 'of a certain age' was dynamic and entertaining as the wines from Italy, Spain and Argentina flowed and they reminisced their last twelve months together."
Queen Daisy described their busy first year and plans for the future -
"We meet every 3rd Wednesday in the month and have varied activities..... we have had dinners at various pubs around the area, had a Xmas house party, Chinese New Year celebration evening, Mahjong evening - and a first Birthday Party / wine tasting.
In May we hope to meet up with the Worthing Red Hats; go punting and have an outdoor pub meal; go to a local Victorian Music Hall and then plan further. On our list are the Houses of Parliament with our MP, a visit to the Music Museum in Kent; a flying visit to Paris or even Sweden." (Lots of photos for the British Red Hatters website please ladies!!!)
Queen Daisy described their busy first year and plans for the future -
"We meet every 3rd Wednesday in the month and have varied activities..... we have had dinners at various pubs around the area, had a Xmas house party, Chinese New Year celebration evening, Mahjong evening - and a first Birthday Party / wine tasting.
In May we hope to meet up with the Worthing Red Hats; go punting and have an outdoor pub meal; go to a local Victorian Music Hall and then plan further. On our list are the Houses of Parliament with our MP, a visit to the Music Museum in Kent; a flying visit to Paris or even Sweden." (Lots of photos for the British Red Hatters website please ladies!!!)
KING’S LYNN: Red Hatters enjoy celebration of colour
50 Shades spotted by the Lynn News!
The registered Red Hat Society chapter of Kings Lynn, called The 50 Shades of Red and Purple Women of Kings Lynn attended the matinee performance of Joseph and His Technicolour Dreamcoat at Lynn's Corn Exchange.
First outing of Cleckheaton Chapter
"Ladies 'Aving Fun"
Queen Margaret writes: "Only 2 of us managed to get to our very first outing on 27th March to the Bradford Museum of Media. That did not stop myself and Christine enjoying ourselves! Here we are pretending to have leapt out of a plane (minus parachutes) - 'persuaded' an unsuspecting fella to take some snaps - this was the only one that was half decent!"
We dare you to share the indecent ones Queen M!
We dare you to share the indecent ones Queen M!
FIFTY SHADES OF BIRTHDAY CAKE!
The King' Lynn Chapter - 50 Shades of Red and Purple -celebrated their first birthday in March
with a get together at Grants Restaurant.
This clever collage was created by a Norfolk Broads little star who wishes to remain nameless, but it can be revealed that she is very highly placed
in the Russian Imperial Court!
May you always have
Walls for the winds,
A roof for the rain,
Tea beside the fire,
Laughter to cheer you,
Those you love near you,
And all your heart might desire!
Irish blessings and sayings
HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!
Walls for the winds,
A roof for the rain,
Tea beside the fire,
Laughter to cheer you,
Those you love near you,
And all your heart might desire!
Irish blessings and sayings
HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!
A ROYAL WEEKEND IN NORWICH
This year's Gathering of Queens was hosted in Norwich by Jude and Gina of the Norfolk Broads. Not only did they provide the entertainment, but they also aranged the weather. The entertainment was a lot better! We had snow, ice, blizzards, slush - and that was just in the drinking glasses! A great weekend just the same - we all loved it! Well done Jude and Gina!
PUTTING ON THE RITZ
There's no doubt about the Norfolk Broads ...
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They must be one of the busiest chapters in the UK!
Tip-toeing through the tulips?
No, sashaying through the snowdrops
with the Norfolk Broads!
Chinese New Year of the Snake
10th February
Cantonese:
Gung Hay Fat Choy! (may prosperity be with you)
Mandarin:
Xin Nian Kuai Le! (Happy New Year)
Ye missed yersel last night!
Looks like we all missed a great party - except for the Norfolk Broads of course when they celebrated Burns Night!
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Ladies 'aving fun
Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire
Our newest Queen toasts the future success of her brand new chapter.
Margaret, formerly of the Shrewsbury Bloomers and known as Lady Lovely Legs recently relocated to West Yorkshire and immediately set about spreading the red. Margaret writes:
"Had my first meeting this morning and 5 ladies signed up - so not bad for a first attempt ... Did not particularly like my chosen name of 'Spen Luddettes'; but voted unanimously for 'Ladies 'aving fun' - so that is the new name of the Cleckheaton Chapter.
Our coffee morning will be on a Wednesday morning at The Taste Cafe Bar in Cleckheaton - first of month, unless it is bank holiday week then it will probably be second ... We came up with a few ideas for days out etc. so I have some research to do before the next meeting.
Cheers and hatty best wishes, Margaret"
Congratulations and very best wishes to Ladies 'aving fun in Cleckheaton!
Margaret, formerly of the Shrewsbury Bloomers and known as Lady Lovely Legs recently relocated to West Yorkshire and immediately set about spreading the red. Margaret writes:
"Had my first meeting this morning and 5 ladies signed up - so not bad for a first attempt ... Did not particularly like my chosen name of 'Spen Luddettes'; but voted unanimously for 'Ladies 'aving fun' - so that is the new name of the Cleckheaton Chapter.
Our coffee morning will be on a Wednesday morning at The Taste Cafe Bar in Cleckheaton - first of month, unless it is bank holiday week then it will probably be second ... We came up with a few ideas for days out etc. so I have some research to do before the next meeting.
Cheers and hatty best wishes, Margaret"
Congratulations and very best wishes to Ladies 'aving fun in Cleckheaton!
ALBERT HALL TOUR
The Sussex Sisters of Horsham were joined by the Crimson Coasters from Arundel and the Blueberry Muffins of Worthing on a tour of the Albert Hall in London on 28th January 2013. The ladies found it really interesting and all learnt a great deal. They went right up in the gods and then down in the basements even visiting a costume department where they watched a hat being made. Pauline, Princess PeaJay writes: "As it was a rest day most of the place was shut only the door to the cafe, and the one we needed, were open. We saw the royal box and went into the room where the Queen waits (the Royal retiring room) and saw the buzzer that is pressed to signify that she is seated so that the National Anthem could be played. All very interesting and the guide gave us a lot of history. She told us that Queen Victoria was present for the opening ceremony and that at the very last minute, without actually telling anyone, she changed its name to the Albert Hall.
They would not let us take any pictures inside which was a shame and whilst we did try to have one taken by the hall nothing of it came out. My picture was taken before the tour (just after we got off the bus) and we went to Cafe Rouge for our meal. But we did have coffee at the Albert Hall cafe!"
They would not let us take any pictures inside which was a shame and whilst we did try to have one taken by the hall nothing of it came out. My picture was taken before the tour (just after we got off the bus) and we went to Cafe Rouge for our meal. But we did have coffee at the Albert Hall cafe!"
Party time in Hitchin, Herts
The Hitchin ladies are celebrating their chapter's second birthday. Queen Mags re-kindled the 'Fiery Fascinators' a couple of years after Rosie Jefferson closed her chapter in neighbouring Letchworth. "She was delighted when I asked if I could use the name again" said Queen Mags. "I think it's too good not to!" We agree!
The Fiery Fascinators celebrating their second birthday in style at the students' restaurant 'Indulge', North Herts College, Hitchin. They did us proud!
Spuds U Like!
"In reply to your plea for "Hatting" photos I have attached a photo of the Crimson Crackers of (Beverley) East Yorkshire doing what Red Hat Ladies do best - spending money and having fun. This was taken at Sledmere House (near Bridlington) Christmas Fair. The young man is George - we bought 2 sacks of potatoes from his dad, and George kindly offered to carry them to our cars.
The Crimson Crackers next outing is on a weekend mystery trip, I can't tell you where to.......it's a mystery!!"
Best Red Hat wishes from
Diane , Queen Crimson of the Crimson Crackers
The Crimson Crackers next outing is on a weekend mystery trip, I can't tell you where to.......it's a mystery!!"
Best Red Hat wishes from
Diane , Queen Crimson of the Crimson Crackers
Another year another birthday ...
Celebrating the birthday of Barbara - Lady Camellia's Birthday are sister Debonaires of Weston super Mare from left ... Sue - Lady Flossie Flauntit, Margret - Lady Lighthouse Pearl, the Birthday Girl Barbara - Lady Camellia, Eileen - Queen Emerald Taffeta and Vanesa - Miss Chief. The outing was at Barbara's restaurant "Camellias" on 21.01.2013 - the day after her birthday.
Oh the weather outside is frightful....
Queen Carolyn of the Crimson Coasters, Arundel announced that she was going to make a Snow Queen but instead the Red Hatter inside leapt out! "She got her Prince," Carolyn tells us.
Dressed like that? She is brave! Brrrrrrrrr!
Dressed like that? She is brave! Brrrrrrrrr!
Another "Abominable Red Hatted Snow-woman". This one is the creation of Lady Chater Lea, friend of the Stamford A1 Hattractions' Maur the Merrier. As you may guess this Ice Queen is prone to out-of-doors activity on occasion....... but keeps her hat on as a demure girl should!!!
Out at 9, home at 5? Not us!!!
The Liver Birds first outing of 2013 was to the Dolly Parton musical "9 to 5" at the Liverpool Empire Theatre on Wednesday 16th January.
Lunch at the Autograph Cafe, Empire Theatre, Liverpool ahead of "9 to 5" the musical. Sue, Helen and Pat did their best to keep Sylvia upright and awake!
HERE WE COME A-WASSAILING
WITH THE NORFOLK BROADS
Wæs hæl, literally 'be you healthy' in Old English
Wassailing is a traditional ceremony that takes place on or around twelfth night and which involves singing and drinking the health of fruit trees in the hopes that they might better thrive. The purpose of wassailing is to awaken the cider apple trees and to scare away evil spirits to ensure a good harvest of fruit in the autumn.
Queen Jude explains: "Oh yes, the NBs go a-Wassailing every year on 6 January, and by tradition this takes place in the garden of Magnificent Margaret and her Soxer, Bob. They are brilliant hosts and provide lunch and plenty of wine (naturally!) following which we all congregate in the garden to do the business! First, we burn all the greenery that we have decorated our homes with over Christmas (can't have any naughty little gremlins lurking about in our houses), and then we "wassail" the fruit trees. We sing the traditional wassailing song, play instruments, bang drums etc. to drive out any bad energy, then the branches are anointed with bread soaked in cider. This blesses the trees and looks forward to them producing a good crop later in the year. Then it's back indoors for coffee and cake, and more happy chat. As you can imagine, this is one of our favourite events - a really feel-good day."
Queen Jude explains: "Oh yes, the NBs go a-Wassailing every year on 6 January, and by tradition this takes place in the garden of Magnificent Margaret and her Soxer, Bob. They are brilliant hosts and provide lunch and plenty of wine (naturally!) following which we all congregate in the garden to do the business! First, we burn all the greenery that we have decorated our homes with over Christmas (can't have any naughty little gremlins lurking about in our houses), and then we "wassail" the fruit trees. We sing the traditional wassailing song, play instruments, bang drums etc. to drive out any bad energy, then the branches are anointed with bread soaked in cider. This blesses the trees and looks forward to them producing a good crop later in the year. Then it's back indoors for coffee and cake, and more happy chat. As you can imagine, this is one of our favourite events - a really feel-good day."
Mine host Bob with Queen Jude
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There's sure to be a forest of cider trees here next autumn
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And no evil spirits
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Click here for a tongue in cheek explanation of Wassailing for our friends across the Pond
What the Papers Say ...
The Sussex Sisters from Horsham, West Sussex got a full page spread in the current (Jan/Feb 2013) issue of the Holbrook Pages, a bi-monthly magazine that is distributed to over 9,000 homes and business in and around the Horsham area.
Click to set custom HTML
"The picture was taken in the summer of our Queen with some of the ladies from the Crawley chapter as at the time of the photograph being taken there were only two of us in our Chapter. Our Chapter now has five members and we have had two ladies contact us having seen the article and hopefully they will join. We have invited them to join us for our regular coffee meet up so fingers crossed they will like us!" said Pauline, Princess Peajay.
Who was it that said all publicity was good publicity?
Who was it that said all publicity was good publicity?
This lovely pic came completely out of the blue from a David Barker. When I emailed him to ask for more information this was the reply:
I am just an enthusiastic amateur photographer. I live in Burnley, Lancashire and took up photography as a hobby when I retired. The link to my Redbubble photography site is below.
The card I sent you is based on a photograph that I took of a shop in Subiaco near Perth, Western Australia that specialised in hats and clothes specially for Red Hat ladies. I have a friend in Australia who is a member of a Red Hat Club.
I just googled Red Hat UK and thought that the card may be of interest to you or your members. The card can be viewed and/or purchased directly from the Redbubble Site although I really only sent it to you for your interest.
Best wishes for 2013.
David".
http://www.redbubble.com/people/finepix
All profit from my sales is donated to CHAS (Children's Hospice Association of Scotland)
Contact David if you would like a particular greeting card:
david@barkerd64.freeserve.co.uk
I am just an enthusiastic amateur photographer. I live in Burnley, Lancashire and took up photography as a hobby when I retired. The link to my Redbubble photography site is below.
The card I sent you is based on a photograph that I took of a shop in Subiaco near Perth, Western Australia that specialised in hats and clothes specially for Red Hat ladies. I have a friend in Australia who is a member of a Red Hat Club.
I just googled Red Hat UK and thought that the card may be of interest to you or your members. The card can be viewed and/or purchased directly from the Redbubble Site although I really only sent it to you for your interest.
Best wishes for 2013.
David".
http://www.redbubble.com/people/finepix
All profit from my sales is donated to CHAS (Children's Hospice Association of Scotland)
Contact David if you would like a particular greeting card:
david@barkerd64.freeserve.co.uk
London New Year's Day Parade
Huge thanks to Queen Lorna of the London Red Hatters who made sure that British Red Hatters were represented and visible at the New Year's Day Parade. The ladies watched the parade and then went to tea at the Strand Hotel where they greeted a surprise guest - Debra Granich, Chief Executive Officer of the Red Hat Society. "What fun!" said Q. Lorna!
Seeing in the New Year with the Crimson Coasters, Arundel
Taken at the New Year's Eve Dinner Party - after midnight and clearly after the photographer had had a few drinks!
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Now that's better!
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