Blogger: Erica Howe, Communications Manager
It always starts with a look doesn’t it? The first time your eyes meet, that twinkle, the smile that you don’t want to give away. Of course I’m talking about love! One of the most written about subjects in the whole world. Many things can get lost in translation, misinterpreted across seas, but not love. And the funny thing about love is how it can take you by surprise. I met my other half whilst out on a bike ride; I never thought I’d fall in love whilst peddling through the Norfolk countryside wearing lycra! One of my colleagues met his wife on a dating website and they instantly hit it off. Neither of these were typically a ‘red roses and candle light’ kind of situation, but that’s what makes them so sentimental.
And of course, what is a more romantic setting than a reedbed? Really? Well, personally I’m not too sure, but there must be some air of romance nestled away within the misty wetland that brings people together. With bitterns booming, kingfishers darting past and the crisp air falling over the marshes, you can’t help but feel a few goose bumps on the back of your neck. Over the years, the RSPB has seen many of its volunteers fall in love whilst giving the gift of time to conservation. Having a common goal to help our environment and to do something a little bit different, is a uniting force.
Whether you choose to help out on a reserve, serve cakes at Minsmere, take up a residential volunteer placement, put on a sponsored event or try your hand at face painting, volunteering for the RSPB is as varied as it gets. And not everyone at the RSPB has a beard, nor do you have to own a pair of binoculars! Young or old, there are things that you can do to get involved with the RSPB that will have you meeting a new person round every corner – and probably some cool wildlife too.
Helping species to survive, flora and fauna to flourish and inspiring people to get connected to the outdoors does sound quite romantic, you have to admit? But these aren’t the only rewards to volunteering. Volunteering might not be the most obvious place to meet your soul mate, your best friend or perhaps just someone to have a good old chat to, but trust me; it brings people together from all walks of life. And it certainly puts a twinkle in your eye!
For more information about volunteering for the RSPB in the East, call Annie Sadler on 01603 660066
Getting romantic in the reedbeds
Photo credit: Andy Hay (rspb images)