Couch to Connection II: Check your bits edition

Why don't you...put down your phone, get off your couch and do something exciting instead?

We know why...because you're most likely exhausted!

But we want to encourage you to fight that instinct! Come out and raise funds for two fantastic charities that support people before, during and after cancer treatment, have a drink and a chat, see some live poetry and musical performances and most importantly make some connections and find out more about the things there are to do in Hillingdon.

We promise you'll be glad you made the effort!

We are a group of military wives, used to moving place to place and having to make our own fun. We've learned how to do it over the years, starting book groups, joining running clubs or taking the plunge with cold water swimming.

And now, somehow, although the internet should make it easier, sometimes we know it can feel overwhelming to meet new people, or take up a new hobby. Life gets in the way, babysitting is expensive, if you drive you can't have a drink, you might feel you have to get dressed up to go out - there's often a reason not to take that first step.

But while we know it's easier to stay on the couch in front of the TV, you really can't beat the endorphin rush of meeting up with people in real life - a smile, a hug, a laugh and a friendly ear - and doing an activity you love be it singing, running, crafting, yoga, reading, dancing, tennis, comedy nights out or swimming.

This event is to share the in real life clubs we've joined, and the people we've met in the Hillingdon area, and encourage anyone who's running a club looking for members or a business that wants to encourage customers to come along and speak about what makes you tick in our 'speed sharing session'.

It's also to just give everyone a little reminder to check their bits. No pressure, just a friendly reminder on how to go about it - you might save your own life or someone else's.

Find out more...go on, we dare you!

You'll be raising money for the good causes Cancer and Menopause and Orchid - committed to supporting men and women to check for lumps and changes, as well as how to navigate cancer treament and the aftermath - and hopefully, going away with a new friend, hobby or idea about what you'd like to do with yourself in real life.

WE WANT YOU TO GET OUT OF THE HOUSE!!!

• Need a babysitter? We've got a list of young people willing to sit for reasonable rates or find your own - we will give you £20 towards the costs (use our list, or show us a receipt from your sitter)
• Need a lift? We're happy to arrange lift shares, taxis, or a shuttle bus if enough people come from the same location [pick up from Northolt, Bushy or Northwood military bases]
• Don't want to come on your own? (Though there's no need to worry, we are literally all used to being the new girl over and over again, and will not let anyone stand alone!) Persuade someone else to come with you! Tickets are £5 for one person, or £8 for two and include a free drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
• Want to share something about your passion? Take a 'Happy to chat' label when you arrive and we'll make sure you get a chance to do your elevator pitch
• Want to exhibit? Let us know in advance and we'll set up a space for you on the mezzanine - no need to get your own ticket too, just the exhibitor space.

Drop us a line couchtoconnection@gmail.com for more info

Image courtesy of Coppafeel