Are We Getting too Big?

After the meeting today a fellow Toastmaster mentioned he didn't think Prairie Schooners would ever out grow their accommodations.  Well, in actual fact, we have out grown our previous 2 locations.  It seems that once a guest sees what the Toastmaster program is all about and what it has to offer, they are quick to join.  Of the four guests in attendance last week, three were back at our meeting today.  One is coming back next week with her membership application completed and the other two indicated that they were wanting to join as well.  More people in the club makes for interesting and diverse meetings, more learning opportunities and the opportunity to get know people from different backgrounds.  Yes, we had 14 people in attendance today and had to bring in extra chairs so everyone could have a place to sit.  Outgrowing your space is a good thing.  It shows the club atmosphere is healthy, inviting and a great place for self improvement.

Today's program had our President giving a presentation on Leadership and how Toastmasters can help you develop your leadership skills all within the club environment.  We all know Jane is full of excitement and enthusiasm and she didn't disappoint while giving her top notch presentation.  We learned we are all leaders, some by the position we hold and some by the skills we demonstrate.  We also had an interesting Table Topics session that followed the "Thanksgiving" theme.  The evaluation portion was a little different.  Instead of having a single person assigned to evaluate Jane's presentation, everyone had a chance to share what they liked about her presentation and what they thought could have been delivered differently for more impact.

All in all, I think we had a pretty good meeting,  Fourteen people in attendance willing to share their feelings on Thanksgiving, practicing their listening skills and learning  how Toastmasters can help them develop their leadership skills.  All the while trying to weave Cornucopia, the word of the day, into their introductions and speaking spots.

With any luck at all, we might be looking for a larger meeting room in the near future.  Wouldn't that be grand?