Minneapolis/St Paul Chapter Newsletter |
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Unmasking Our Truth: Pondering the Pandemic and Forecasting Our Future
Saturday, May 15, 10:00 AM-Noon
Zoom
TTN MSP Members only event
Many of us are preparing to emerge from the cocoons in which we have lived for over a year. With that comes the opportunity to assess what we have learned from our COVID-19 experiences, what we will keep and what we will toss as a result. Join your fellow TTN MSP members as we “ponder the pandemic and forecast our futures.”
Please come to this event prepared - with paper and pencil, as well as having read at least the “required” articles and, hopefully, some of the “suggested” resources (which will be provided to all registrants prior to the event). Be prepared to discuss this TRANSITION, where you are at, what you have learned, and what your new “normal” might look like post-pandemic.
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Wellness Wednesday:
Re-Entry - How to Look (and Feel) Our Best
Wednesday, May 19, 6:00-7:30 PM
Zoom
We invite TTN members and non-members to join us via Zoom for a presentation titled “Re-Entry--How to Look (and Feel) Our Best After the Pandemic: The 4 Research Proven Makeup Techniques Those of Us Over 50 Can Use Now to Look Our Best with Minimal Effort”.
During the past year, most of us have adopted a more casual and minimal approach to fashion and makeup. But how do we take our makeup "up a notch" as we enter a "new normal"? Professional, working makeup artist Elise Marquam-Jahns specializes in helping those of us 50+ look our best. She will guide us through the four research-proven makeup techniques that can help us look like the very best version of ourselves. After her presentation, she will demonstrate several of the most helpful techniques and answer your questions.
A lifelong makeup and beauty junkie, Elise Marquam-Jahns has trained with a top, nationally known makeup artist. She has spent the last seven years focusing on makeup techniques and tips that specifically help women over 50 get their glow back.
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Wellness Wednesday:
Introduction to Tai Chi in the Park
Wednesday, May 26, 2:30-3:30 PM
Kenwood Park, North Section, Douglas Drive and Morgan Ave South, Minneapolis
Have you been curious about the flowing movements of a group practicing the ancient art of Tai Chi? Come join us for an hour in the park with Tai Chi teacher, Colin Snow, to experience its calming and energizing effects. Colin Snow is the founder of Natural Step Tai Chi for Wellbeing in Minneapolis. He describes Tai Chi as low impact meditative exercise for the wellbeing of mind, body & spirit, and says, “everyone is welcome in our community regardless of age, ability or current level of health.”
This outdoor setting, nestled among the trees on grass in a very quiet part of Kenwood Park is an ideal place to experience the peace and grounding of Tai Chi. No experience with Tai Chi is required or expected, just a willingness to explore this ancient traditional form of moving meditation and exercise. I (Jan Weller) have studied Tai Chi with Natural Step for five years and we are excited to offer this opportunity to TTN.
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Women Weaving Words Garden Party
Saturday, June 26, 11:00 AM-2:00 PM
Member home in St. Michael
TTN MSP Members only event
It’s back! Fully-vaccinated TTN MSP members are invited to join us as we emerge from our Covid-19 cocoons on Saturday, June 26, from 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM for WOMEN WEAVING WORDS! This garden party, hosted by Terri Evans at her home in St. Michael, will feature surprise guests and focus on the idea of WOMEN and STORY! Our guests will share their own stories with us. Attendees will receive a journal and be encouraged to do some writing and sharing of their own. Our experiences from the past year, no doubt, have left us all with many stories to tell. Brunch and beverages will be served. This event is for members only with a limited number of spots available. Cost is $30 per person. Since it is at Terri’s home, all attendees must be fully vaccinated for Covid. Mark your calendars and register at the link below - more information to come!
As Gloria Steinem says in My Life on the Road, “For millennia, we have passed down knowledge through story and song…I discovered the magic of people telling their own stories to groups of strangers. It’s as if attentive people create a magnetic force field for stories the tellers themselves didn’t know they had within them.”
“We dream in stories…We love in stories…We hate in stories…We worry in stories…We tell stories before we can read…We connect our stories by telling them out loud…” says author, Kelly Barnhill.
Join us for a day of wonderful women weaving words and stories!
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APRIL EVENT RECAP SECTION |
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Wellness Wednesday: Finding Joy and Contentment
Submitted by Julie Efta
On March 31, TTN member Mary White gave an excellent presentation on Finding Joy and Contentment. We learned that joy and contentment are innate qualities which do not have to be learned. In stressful times or anytime, they are just one thought away. In times of panic or chaos, just do the next thing. Try not to overthink, or control/fix too much. Peace is always available. Awareness and acknowledgement of this helps. As does a focus on breathing in the moment. May we all feel more carefree, blissful, unfettered, curious, creative, open, spacious, grounded, loved, calm, free, connected, and in the flow and in the moment. Thank You, Mary!
Wellness Wednesday: World Health Day
Submitted by Julie Efta
April 7 was World Health Day. Members were encouraged to watch and listen to various speakers presented as a virtual symposium by Global Minnesota. The Theme this year was: Crossing Borders Builds Health Equity. Some of the borders crossed were countries, continents, political viewpoints, work roles, and class, gender, race and age. This global perspective of speakers and ideas stressed the need to partner, and the social and economic benefits of tackling world health at the strategic level. Check out Global Minnesota on utube to learn more.
April Get Connected
Submitted by Mary Howard and Pat Burgraff
On Thursday, April 14, seven women gathered for our April Get Connected event. After checking in with each other to see how we were doing, we began a fun and lively discussion on the topic of favorite shoes. A good dose of shoe ‘show and tell’ was thrown in which made this a fun and informative gathering. Attendees mentioned these shoe brands: Dansko, New Balance (great for wider feet), Merrell, Paul Green, Donald Pliner (very cute!), Oboz, Birkenstocks, FitFlops, VANELi, Bernie Mev, Propet and the beloved by many Haflinger slippers. Schuler Shoes got multiple shout outs for being a good resource for consultation and shopping for shoes. Each participant also shared a favorite shoe story that was fun to hear.
Wellness Wednesday: Forest Bathing Experience
Submitted by Julie Efta
On April 21, 7 women met up at various points on the trail, and were refreshed by taking in the forest atmosphere of Reservoir Woods Park in Roseville. We started by taking a slow walk down a forested hill, lingered at a deck overlook with good conversation, and ate a few nibbles of croissants from La Delicious Bakery. Then we walked on at a faster pace, circled McCarrons Lake, appreciated Villa Park songbirds, crossed Dale Street and again entered the forest sanctuary while one member carried a small picnic basket the distance. It was a wondrous 2-hour experience of nature, friends and calm. We felt embraced, protected, and appreciative. Write yourself a nature prescription soon! 20 minutes a day is recommended for physiological and psychological benefits. Invite a friend or enjoy solitude. We plan to offer more ecotherapy soon.
“Every now and then Piglet gave a little skip and sang, Tra-la, it’s spring.” A.A. Milne
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Still Here: Caring and Dementia
Submitted by Cyndy Nelson
Many of us have a loved one who is experiencing memory issues. A friend shared this link from Safe Space Radio which I found to be very helpful. The description on the website is "This hour-long special is about the unspoken challenges of caring for a family member with dementia. The show explores the experience of ambiguous loss, where the person is both here and not here at the same time. We explore why caregivers have such high rates of isolation and depression and how difficult it may be to live with the fear of getting the disease yourself. Host Anne Hallward has lived with this illness in her own family and offers creative solutions that give hope, reduce stress, and build community."
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Submitted by Kathleen Peterson
How Exciting!! Our MSP Chapter Caring Collaborative will be launching on May 1, 2021. The Advisory Committee presented it's first orientation session on April 28th to a group of 26 collaborative participants. We are so pleased with the response to date. This program is intended to provide support to those members who may be facing a temporary health issue, a new diagnosis or other need due to illness, injury or other life challenge. Members learned about the Service Corps and the Member Information Exchange and how they will be able to access assistance or provide assistance to a member in need.
As a chapter member, if you haven't already joined but are interested in being a part of this group, you will need to sign up by sending an email to Kathleen at kathleenpeterson614@gmail.com. As additional interest occurs, another orientation session will be arranged in the future.
Please note that there is now a Health and Wellness Resource list on our Chapter web page. We invite you to visit it as you will find a wealth of helpful information in the various entries. Access these resources here.
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Transition Peer Groups (TPGs) continue to meet monthly using Zoom. If you have interest in any current peer group or have an idea for a new group, contact Barbara or the contact person to get connected. The members of the group shape the discussions and activities and share responsibility for participation, communication, and facilitation. TPGs are great experiences for in depth discussions and developing new friendships that are supportive, encouraging and fun.
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NEW TRANSITION PEER GROUP
Submitted by Barbara O’Sullivan
A new Transition Peer Group (TPG) for women who work focuses on the challenges and rewards of the current work place as well as preparing for what is next in work life or retirement. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 17, at 7:15 PM. The focus for the discussion is how to stay relevant as work life changes by choice or otherwise. We also will discuss our collective values for a beneficial group experience.
If you are interested, please mark your calendar to attend our May meeting. New members to the group are always welcome. Please contact Barbara at barbara.osullivan@hotmail.com with questions or to receive the zoom link.
TRANSITION PEER GROUP – Life Animated
Submitted by Sylvia Mohn
At our meeting on April 8, we discussed the topic of introverts. We watched a brief TED talk on introverts by Susan Cain from March 2012, author of the book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking. About 1/3 to 1/2 of the population are introverts. They feel most alive in quiet, lowkey environments whereas extroverts get their energy from gregarious talking to other people in busy, noisy environments. Cain talked about the problems of open offices, and open classrooms where students are supposed to learn in teams or pods. She said it was important for children to work on their own in school because that’s where deep thought comes from, and also it was important to unplug from media. She talked about the historical shift in public role models from men of contemplation and character in the 19th century (Abe Lincoln) to a culture of personality in the 20th century, driven partly by a shift in rural to urban lifestyles and living among strangers.
After listening to the talk, we polled ourselves and most in the meeting were introverts, one was an ambivert (middle on the spectrum). Although this TED talk was from eight years ago, it seemed relevant to today, especially in the time of the pandemic when many are living
quieter, more isolated lives by necessity. We talked about how some children thrive in remote learning because that’s how they learn best. We discussed coping mechanisms we've used for dealing with open/noisy offices and lack of privacy, and where you always had to be ready to socialize. We talked about our experiences growing up and how we felt as introverts or extroverts.
Topic for Thursday, May 13, at 10:00 AM is Post-pandemic life: Fears and anticipation. The pandemic has changed us, what do you look forward to, what do you want to avoid? Forward links of relevant articles to the group before the meeting.
All Minneapolis/St. Paul TTN members are welcome. We meet the second Thursday of the month from 10:00 AM-Noon. We are currently meeting via Zoom.
Please contact Eleni Skevas at eskevs@yahoo.com if you are interested in joining this group.
TRANSITION PEER GROUP - Living with Purpose
Submitted by Barbara O’Sullivan
At our April 22 meeting, we experimented using a technique called WOOP (Wish/Outcome/Obstacles/Plan). Here is a link to learn more about the WOOP tool. The tool is included in the Yale course Science of Well-Being offered free of charge through Coursera. Members agreed that the tool can be useful for a variety purposes including improving our daily habits and relationships with others.
Our next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 27, at 6:30 PM. We will use the meeting as a follow up to the TTN MSP Workshop Unmasking our Truth: Pondering the Pandemic and Forecasting our Future which is scheduled for Saturday, May 15. Attendance at the workshop is not necessary for our TPG discussion but is strongly encouraged.
All Minneapolis/St. Paul TTN members are welcome. We meet the fourth Thursday of the month from 6:30-8:00 PM. We are currently meeting via Zoom.
TRANSITION PEER GROUP - West Metro
Submitted by Jean Forrey
On Monday, May 3, from 1:00-3:00 PM, we will be meeting to discuss friendships in the time of Covid. Our discussion will be based on an article in The New York Times titled “We Want Our Friends Back! (But Which Ones?)” by Alex Williams. Each member was mailed a copy of this article. If you need the article, please email Jean Forrey for a copy.
In April, we met and had another opportunity to get to know each other better. Those who wanted to participate took a “quiz” from the VIA Institute on Character. This “quiz” profiled our character strengths based on 24 characteristics such as humor, zest, self-regulation, love of learning and leadership etc. It was really fun looking at ourselves and each other through this lens.
We also discussed the podcast from The Island of Discarded Women and are all looking forward to the summer garden party and Sue Scott as one of the headliners!
Please feel free to join us on the first Monday of every month from 1:00- 2:30 or 3:00 PM. Contact Jean Forrey at jean.4e@gmail.com if you want to be added to the e-mail list.
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Special Interest Groups (SIGs) |
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Submitted by Erin Campbell and Julie Efta
Spring is here and people are getting vaccinated! All exciting news that we will be able to see each other in-person soon. The SIGs are going strong and we have had a few out-door gatherings. You can read all about our SIG activities below. Keep in mind, we are all open to a one-time activity or a longer-term SIG. If you have an idea, contact Erin at ecingb@yahoo.com or Julie at teacherjulie.efta@gmail.com with your interest.
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RACE & HISTORY SIG: Changing the Narrative
NEW SIG Looking for interested participants
Submitted by Ginny Jacobson, Jan Weller, and Jill Goski
The purpose of this SIG is to enable participants to learn U.S. history that we didn't learn in school, particularly the perspectives and experiences of people of color. To help us understand our present-day racial dynamics through a historical context, we'll delve into the history of Slavery, Reconstruction, Lynching and Segregation. We'll also become aware of the many hopeful actions that people are taking to rectify past wrongs, with emphasis on the Twin Cities and Minnesota. We'll have four monthly sessions, June through September, 1 1/2 hours in length, using a format somewhat similar to a book club. However, no purchase of books required. Readings, videos, podcasts, etc., are all available online; the amount of time to prepare for our monthly sessions will be about 2-4 hours, similar to reading a book for a book club. At the conclusion of our 4-month study, members may choose to continue to meet to discuss additional topics of interest and also to discuss meaningful actions we can take as an organization or as individuals.
Date and time for this SIG to be determined.
Leaders of this SIG are Ginny Jacobson, Jan Weller, and Jill Goski. To sign up or for more information, contact Ginny at ginnyjacobson3@gmail.com
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SCRIBBLING SQUIRRELS SIG
NEW SIG Looking for interested participants
Submitted by Julie Efta
We are now a group of 4 groovy kits and welcome other creatives to join us for impromptu live outdoor gatherings to encourage writing, drawing, painting or any portable art. Since this is dependent on good weather, meeting dates, and times will be set on short notice. We will meet anywhere outside proposed by members.
There will be some chatting at the beginning and end of each meeting, but the main purpose is to get together for independent work and inspiration.
Our first outing may be on a Saturday afternoon at a park or on a boat on the Mississippi River.
Interested? Sign up! The size of the group may be limited.
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ART APPRECIATION SIG
Submitted by JeNell Jacobson
Our meeting on April 14 focused on symbolism by viewing a variety of paintings, sculptures and mosaic works submitted by members for a slide show.
Works by Minnesota Artists will be featured in a slide show at our meeting on Wednesday, May 12, from 1:00-3:00 PM. The participants can also share information about art tours, and events in our state that could be of interest for groups or individuals to visit. Participants are encouraged to submit their photos of art by Minnesota artists to Terri Evans by Wednesday, May 5.
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CARDS, COIN, CONVERSATION, & CANAPES SIG
Submitted by Robin Getman
This SIG is taking a hiatus due to Covid19 as the in-person meetings are essential to the purpose of the group.
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DAYTIME BOOK SIG
Submitted by Eleni Skevas
Books, books, books.
Every member of the Daytime Book Club has pretty strong opinions about what makes a book worth reading. In reviewing our reading over the last two years or so, we determined that as a group we tried to cut each other a lot of slack in choice of books. Yes, we might not love a recommended book, but we would still read it and find that we got something out of it in spite of ourselves. Maybe we learned something we didn’t already know. Maybe we stretched into topics we never would have explored if left to our own devices.
In April, we moved into Greek mythology and read the novel Circe by Madeline Miller. The book is a skillful retelling of the story of Circe, the sorceress and witch who turned deserving men into swine. Miller created an engaging backstory with feminist elements thrown in.
Here are the books we are slotted to read in the future:
May 6: The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett. A novel about Black light-skinned identical twins who separate as young women, one choosing to live as a privileged white and one continuing to live a very different life as a black.
June 3: The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion. A comedy written in the voice of a young man on the Spectrum about his search for the perfect woman.
July 1: Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate. A novel based on a real-life American scandal wherein children were abducted from their parents, disappeared and adopted out to wealthy families.
August 5: Ordinary Grace by Minnesota author William Kent Krueger. A murder mystery and a coming-of-age novel woven out of the stuff of small-town living.
A book club is a beautiful thing. We invite you to join us every first Thursday of the month at 10:00 AM. Contact Eleni Skevas at eskevs@yahoo.com if you’d like to be added to the email list.
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EXPLORING FOOD SIG
Submitted by Chris DiPietro
Over the past 20 months the women who attend the Food SIG have truly been explorers of sights, aromas, textures, tastes, and techniques-sometimes in person, but most often virtually. Those in attendance bring many ideas, talents and curiosities. Anyone is invited to visit this fun group as we continue to explore the many facets of food. We will hope to establish safe outdoor meeting experiences later this spring.
In April, members prepared a recipe that was previously untried from a forgotten or favorite cookbook. They then photographed it and shared their experiences. We enjoyed delicious inspirations and aspirations!!
Our next meeting will be held on Monday, May 10, from 4:00-5:30 PM via ZOOM. (Invitations sent out about a week in advance.)
We will continue our exploration of recipes. This time the subject is Enticing Appetizers. Attendees are encouraged to prepare an appetizer, photograph it, and share their experience. However, cooking ahead is not a requirement of participation. Come to enjoy the sights and stories.
For the first half of 2021, the SIG plans to meet on the second Monday of the month from 4:00-5:30 PM.
If you would like to be added to the email list of Food SIG participants, please email Chris DiPietro at cmdjp2@gmail.com. If you have other questions about the Exploring Food SIG, please contact Kathleen Peterson at kathleenpeterson614@gmail.com.
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FINANCIAL SIG
Submitted by Cyndy Nelson
On April 20, 13 women gathered to discuss how to get the most for your money when traveling. We quickly discovered that we have added a reason for travel – to get out of the house/escape! Nobody was ready to fly yet, but people were considering/planning train, car, or RV trips. Most will travel domestically or locally in the short term. We learned that rental cars are currently in short supply and expensive due to fleet downsizing. Women have used Costco travel as a way to save money. Women have also found Airbnb to be a way to save money, but one needs to be careful so you know what you are getting. We discussed how we are focused on getting the experience you want in the most cost-effective way, rather than traveling as cheaply as possible. Some members recommended we take a risk and try something new as we plan our travel.
On Tuesday, May 18, 6:30-8:00 PM, we will be discussing the article from The New York Times titled “Are you emotionally ready to retire?” It asks 8 questions; those who have already retired can help to provide insights for those who are thinking about it. Article can be found here.
Our June meeting will be on Tuesday, June 15, 6:30-8:00 PM.
The purpose of this group is to increase our personal financial literacy. The knowledge of members about financial topics varies from beginner to more experienced. Our topics will be selected based on what individual members are interested in. We meet on the third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 PM. New members are welcome. Come and give it a try.
Please email Cyndy at clnelson03@gmail.com if you are interested in joining us, have ideas for topics, or have questions.
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FRENCH CONVERSATION SIG
Submitted by Jane Harens
The members of the French Conversation SIG are gradually expanding our vocabularies and topics of discussion. We are keeping the conversational balle rolling for longer times and more topics each week. Power points, flash cards and the occasional pantomime help us communicate.
Meeting via Zoom on Mondays at 10:00.
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GARDENS R US SIG – Summer SIG
Submitted by Julie Efta
Thanks to the 10 members who volunteered for our pandemic garden meet ups last summer: Jean Forrey, Debra Dorgen, Eleni Skevas, Mellissa Cathcart, Tracey Baker, Robin Getman, Susan Zimmerman, Jill Goski, Janis Weller and Nancy Bargsten.
I have heard that several more members are working at redesigning their gardens and many others continue to enjoy their special spaces, gardens, decks and patios for relaxing and entertaining.
This year there is no sign up to join this group of hosts. There are no special group events. Everyone interested is encouraged to reach out individually to arrange in person outdoor socializing throughout the summer. You can find email addresses for other members in the member directory of the TTN website; you must be logged in to see this information.
Invite a few members or be bold and ask to visit someone for inspiration. Meeting at parks and having a picnic is also a great choice.
Be spontaneous and enjoy the beauty and fresh air and warmth!
“You can’t stay in your corner of the forest waiting for others to come to you. You have to go to them sometimes.” Winnie the Pooh
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LEGACY WRITING SIG
Submitted by Karen West
On April 1, five members met and shared the “significant experiences and events” from June (ages 36-42) of their ongoing “Life Review.” Next month, on Thursday, May 6, from 1:30-3:00 PM, we will share our experiences from July (ages 43-49). Before our May meeting, we will also reflect on, or write about, how July’s experiences and events “contributed to the continuum of our life.” Eventually we will be able to use our “Life Review” to help us decide what legacy letters we might want to write.
We meet on the first Thursday of the month from 1:30-3:00.
If you are interested, have questions, or would like more information please email Karen at karenw0214@gmail.com.
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MOVIE SIG
Submitted by Erin Campbell
The Movie SIG met and on April 15 discussed Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. The movie was an adaption of the play which is set in Chicago in the 1920s, and deals with issues of race, art, religion, and the historic exploitation of Black recording artists by white producers. On April 29, the group discussed the Sound of Metal which is about a heavy-metal drummer's life that is thrown into freefall when he begins to lose his hearing. Both films are heavy drama and filled with many discussion points. The group hasn't yet decided on future movies or meeting dates.
All of our meetings are 1:00-2:30 PM.
We would love for you to join us for any or all movies.
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ON BEING SIG
Submitted by Julie Efta
Thanks to Debra Dorgan for selecting and adeptly leading the invigorating discussion on The Science of Mindlessness and Mindfulness with Ellen Langer, a Harvard psychologist and author. We were encouraged to 'actively notice' nature, objects, and people around us. This is an action that is more than simply being present. Instead of seeking work/life balance, seek integration. How we use language matters, as do our beliefs. Instead of asking 'can I?' do something, ask yourself 'how can I?’ do this. If you change your mind, your body may also change. Seek out, create and notice new things every day to experience direct mindfulness.
On Monday, May 17, we will meet at 1:00 PM via zoom to discuss The Art of Being Creatures with the poet farmer Wendell Berry and theologian Ellen Davis. For additional pleasure listen to the Extra poems read at the end of the On Being podcast. Julie will lead the discussion. Listen to the podcast before our meeting. Or read the transcript, but you shouldn’t miss Wendell Berry’s voice!!! Podcast can be found at this link.
We meet at 1:00 PM promptly on the third Monday of each month. Members rotate selecting an interview and leading the discussion. New members welcome! You do not need to attend every month.
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"PAR-TEE-ON" – Mini Golf SIG
Submitted by Jean Forrey
Well golfing girls! Are you ready to party on the links?
Weather permitting of course, we have chosen to meet on Thursday, May 6, at Lilli Putt in Coon Rapids. This is just a basic, solid course which we thought might be convenient for all members. We are going to suggest 2 times in order to accommodate our working members - those who want to do both can chat and chew in between games. The first meet-up time will be 3:00 PM and the second at 6:00 PM.
With our Senior Discount, rates will be $8.10 a game. The address is 1349 Coon Rapids Blvd, Coon Rapids, MN 55433.
I am unsure of their Covid masking policies, but if you have not been fully vaccinated, we ask that you wear a mask and let others know your status. Otherwise, we will comply with those in our foursomes or twosomes who are the least comfortable not wearing masks. We recognize that everyone has different comfort levels so we want to be respectful. I can foresee a totally unmasked group and a masked group or maybe a combo - but this will be a no judgement activity.
We will play if temps are above 50 and maybe a slight drizzle? - after all we are hardy Minnesotans. If in doubt, check your e-mails if you are on the mailing list.
We are looking forward to this so much and hope to see you there!
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SECOND HALF OF LIFE BOOK SIG
Submitted by Karen West
On April 13, 15 women met to discuss the first 89 pages of From Age-ing to Sage-ing by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi. We had an interesting discussion, and we missed the four women who were absent. Thank you to each of the women who shared specific sections or quotes from the book that they wanted to discuss.
On Tuesday, May 11, at 7:00 PM, we will continue to discuss From Age-ing to Sage-ing through P. 184.
I also want to give you the name of the book we will read next, so you have plenty of time to locate a copy. It is Finding Meaning in the Second Half of Life: How to Finally Really Grow Up, by James Hollis. This is my second favorite book on conscious aging. I’m saving my favorite for later.
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SISTERS IN AWE
formerly FULL MOONS AND THE AURORA BOREALIS SIG
(aka Skywatchers)
Submitted by Julie Efta and Melissa Cathcart
Welcome all to a new name/concept! Although Full moons, Seasonal Celebrations, and Sky Watching will remain the central focus of this group, we plan to appreciate the Awe in all aspects of nature and welcome ideas for future gatherings/meetings in person and outside this spring/summer/fall. While the newsletter will continue to report on the main events that are open to everyone, we would like interested women to email us if they wish to join a small group in novel and impromptu experiences of awe and joy that will not always be reported via the newsletter/TTN website/meetup.
Wednesday, May 26 is the Full Moon. Enjoy this on your own in your favorite place (please share) or meet with others to watch it rise at White Bear Lake on the boardwalk in front of Aqua restaurant. If cloudy, try the day before or after!
We are considering camping at a few Wisconsin State Parks this summer during the week. Let us know if you are interested in camping or just a day trip of forest bathing and fun. Attendees will be limited.
The Aurora Borealis have been visible several times Up North this past month. Sign up for the Aurora or Aurora Forecast App and be prepared to make a last-minute trip North since it is a last-minute notification!
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THEATER SIG
Submitted by Robin Getman
This SIG is taking a hiatus due to Covid19 as attending in-person theater events together was key to the purpose of the group.
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TRAVEL SIG
Submitted by Marilynne Roberts
RV Life: From Pandemic Distraction to (almost) Hitting the Road. At the April Travel SIG, Janis Weller graciously shared her covid-inspired learning about self-contained RV travel, including NEW terms for many members, such as the difference between a Class A, Class C or 5th Wheel rig. Not only rigs, we learned about gear, too. Janis explained so much about the 'WHY' in planning this adventure, along with what and who has inspired her, including a short clip of Frances McDormand (Fern, in Nomadland) talking about the importance of connecting to the natural world as we age. We hope Janis will check in with us as she begins her RV travels this summer.
We will meet on Tuesday, May 25, at 6:30 PM. Our topic is outdoor adventure travel with TTN MSP member, Kim Keprios, executive director of Wilderness Inquiry.
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URBAN HIKING SIG
Submitted by Chris DiPietro
The Urban Hiking SIG explores parks, trails, and new locations in the metro area during monthly hikes.
In April the group had two outings. On April 17, we walked for about 3 miles along Nine Mile Creek in Moir Park in Bloomington. The trees were just budding out, the creek was full and playful, and we even saw a nesting bird or two. Our “Awe” walk in April was in conjunction with the Wellness Wednesday program. We enjoyed a forest bathing experience at Reservoir Woods in Roseville. Look for additional details on this event elsewhere in the newsletter.
We have two hikes planned for May:
Our first hike of the month will be held on Thursday, May 13, at 4:00 PM in the Saint Anthony Park neighborhood of Saint Paul. We’ll hike for about an hour at a moderately brisk pace around the neighborhood. We’ll take in the diversity of architecture and age of homes and enjoy the small parks tucked here and there throughout the area. (Rain date is Friday, May 14, at the same time.)
Our second hike will be our “Awe” walk. On Tuesday, May 18, at 1:30 PM, we’ll meet at Langton Lake Park in Roseville for a contemplative walk. The park has about a mile of trails around a small lake. We will enjoy whatever we can hear, see, feel, or smell as we walk at a relaxed pace for about 45 minutes. We will likely spend some time considering the history and mystery of the smokehouse ruins at the southern end of the lake. (Rain date is Thursday, May 20, at the same time.)
If you’d like to join either or the hikes in April or would simply like more information about the Urban Hiking SIG, contact Chris DiPietro, the SIG’s coordinator at cmdjp2@gmail.com.
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WRITER’s SIG 1
Submitted by JeNell Jacobson
The Writer’s SIG in April marked the end to holding our meetings on Zoom. As always, we enjoyed some chuckles and writing together. We are delighted to get back to meeting in person on the patio in May! Our annual review will be the focus of the Friday, May 14, 10:30 AM meeting. This group is currently closed to additional members.
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