Cabin fever is a common affliction for many during the winter, but it hits senior citizens the worst.

But there is an option for socialization and fun in North Suffolk.

Ebenezer United Methodist Church sponsors the Village Senior Center at the Crittenden, Eclipse and Hobson Ruritan Hall most Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It does not meet the third Tuesday each month.

The group began meeting seven years ago with 16 members under the leadership of Ginny Bagnell, church member and friend to many of the women in the original group. The group has dwindled down to nine members over the years, but the members that are able continue to meet and welcome guests.

“It’s a good group,” said Betty Newman, who was one of the original members of the group. “I enjoy it so much. It’s good to get out.”

Bagnell was inspired to begin the group after traveling to visit her senior citizen friends. She found that many of these friends would visit with one another, but only in small groups.

“I thought we could get more people together if we opened this center, so we did it,” she said.

The group plays cards, goes on field trips, does arts and crafts, solves puzzles, holds parties for holidays and birthdays, and anything else the group members want to do, Bagnell explains.

“I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it, and I’ve been coming ever since,” said Carol Weidmann. “I enjoy playing cards and chatting with the ladies.”

The church pays for snacks, field trips, parties and materials for crafts and activities through funds gathered from the Ebenezer Church Golf Tournament and donations. The Crittenden, Eclipse and Hobson Ruritan Club designated and furnished a room at its building free of charge especially for the group.

“I’ve enjoyed every minute of it,” Bagnell said. “I like being around them. I like listening to them talk and seeing them have a good time.”

Regular attendees like Marge Utterback and Inez Mayanne said that they enjoy the togetherness that they experience with the group.

“I love it,” said Agnes Ross, who started coming at the suggestion of her granddaughter. “I don’t miss a day.”

“It’s a real relaxed atmosphere,” Weidmann said. “It’s just a good time.”

The group is open to anyone who would like to attend, even if you’re not a senior citizen.

“We’d really like to have more people join us,” Bagnell said. “It’s a lot of fun.”

For more information about the group, contact Ginny Bagnell at 238-2609.