For the third straight year, we will be gathering for a New Year's Brunch on January 7 at the Red Dog Tavern in the  Madison Hotel in Morristown.  Watch for registration information for this popoular annual event.

Connecting with TTN members you know, meeting new friends, basking in the sunshine while watching the reflections in a pool -- what better way to spend a Sunday during the dog days of summer than at the North-Central NJ TTN Bagel Brunch on July 16.

 

The locale was Rosemary Byrne's home (and beautiful backyard) in Englewood. At one of our most successful events to date, more than 35 members and guests shared brunch, experiences and conversation, and got to know each other. The words of the day were food, laughter and relaxation.

 

North-Central NJ Chapter Chair Ann Freedman and  Membership Chair Susan Lilly  spoke about the many benefits of TTN membership as we transition from one life phase to another - the friendships, the networking, the support, and the opportunity to share information and common experiences. Susan and Ann highlighted our numerous activities (such as our holiday brunch and museum visits), our programs (such as a talk by anti-ageism advocate Ashton Applewhite and our housing alternatives panel), our day and evening peer groups, and our growing number of special interest peer groups (books, films and our latest, Culture Mavens).

 

Rosemary gave us the opportunity to share something about ourselves with a question for each guest. The inquiries ranged from "which famous person would you like to meet?" to "have you ever lied about your age"? - and everything in between. The answers generated discussions that were at times serious and thought-provoking and at others, simply hilarious. In short, a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon!

On September 9,  several members of TTN North Central NJ braved the trip across the GW Bridge to the Bronx to experience the exhibit of Chihuly glass at the NY Botanical Gardens.

The weather was perfect! Our early Saturday morning arrival made for easy parking and an almost empty tram ride to  survey the fabulous park and enabled us to avoid the crowds that appeared later in the day.

 

The Chihuly works were spectacular and well-positioned throughout the park. It was difficult for us to pick a favorite - the glorious blue "Sapphire Star" that shimmered in the sun or the pieces resting in a boat on the pond where you could enjoy the art work as well as its reflection in the water. The pieces in the Conservatory, sometimes strategically placed among the plants and trees, often appeared to be part of the foliage.  The various short films shown in the Library's auditorium were a highlight of the visit. These fascinating 4 to 5 minute videos gave us insight into the Chihuly studios, the fine art of glass blowing and the team work involved in creating and exhibiting these massive works of glass art. 

A bit of lunch at the Garden's café and it was a great day for all.

Enjoying the sun before the tour

Lunch after the museum

On October 15th, the TTN Jersey Girls peer group celebrated 10 years of friendship in style at the Chart House in Weehawken, NJ.

Everyone enjoyed a fabulous brunch and a beautiful water view. The event was attended by Jane Kalfus, Rosemary Byrne, Panny King, Joan Knauer, Joan Freed, Lanie Gastman, Elizabeth Richter, Arlene Simon, Susan Lilly and Judy Glick.  Each shared memories of times spent together and gave individual toasts to many more years of friendship. 

Jersey Girls