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 [email protected] for more info

Image courtesy of Coppafeel

Info: Grab your free drink (alcoholic and non-alcoholic available) and meet the Uxbridge Bunker Patch Military Spouses and share the reason you came along to the event - a two minute opportunity to share your passions (only if you want to, no pressure!)

Info: Visit the stalls and exhibitors set out around the beautiful Battle of Britain Bunker, while enjoying free snacks and drinks from the bar. Buy a raffle ticket and try your luck! Various entertainment on the mezzanine from singing to poetry to live demos.

Info: Did you know that being able to balance on one leg can improve your life expectancy? And being able to stop, breathe and re-centre when having a stressful day can also have a huge impact. Join our yoga instructors to learn a few brilliant basics.

Info: Join our charity partners to find out more about spotting the signs and symptoms of cancer, and the effects of menopause and cancer. (15 minute sessions)

Info: Roll up roll up to win some fabulous prizes and make the most of the bar and buffet. Chat with our charity partners and take a final chance to share your organisation (if you hadn't got up the nerve at the beginning of the night, we know that not everyone is instantly brave!)

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Battle of Britain Bunker, Wren Avenue, Uxbridge, United Kingdom