Widows & Widowers Support Group
This community is dedicated to those who have lost a husband, wife, or partner. Anything is open for discussion here, with the hope that we can focus on grief, bereavement, life after loss, and continuing on after a great loss.
Hi all. I'm sending this post out early in hopes that you can "save the date." We DSers are so scattered that there are many who haven't had the chance to attend a GatheringPhilly, IN/Chicago, OH, AL, KY, or SoCal. In September, point your car toward Ohio, my little spot on this planet, and get ready for some fun, rest, and relaxation with friends.
I hope you will consider joining us. It will be a day to connect and put a face with a nameat last! The other Gatherings have been great fun and uplifting. I think it surprised all of us how quickly we bonded. Conversations ranged from lighthearted and fun loving to camaraderie between determined survivors. What a special group of people the DSers arekindhearted, supportive, and compassionate.
OHIO GATHERING
WHEN:
September 16-18, 2011. The main day being Saturday, September 17, 11:30 a.m.
WHERE:
The Gathering will be held at my house (address to be given by private message), and, if weather permits, I will be sure to have the bonfire going for our evening S'mores. I promise, my DS friends who gave me a hard time last year, I WILL eat a S'more and not pick it apart and eat the Hershey bar, then the marshmallow, and finally the Graham Crackers. I had to endure a little rib poking about my idiosyncrasy, but all's well that ends well. It was yummyall three parts!
LODGING:
Hampton Inn, 11484 Allen Road, Jeffersonville, OH 43128 (same as last year for those of you who will be returning) (1-71 Exit 65 @ Route 35) (740-948-9499), $89.00, not including tax. This includes a hot Continental Breakfast.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
To receive the special price, there is a Code to mention when making your reservation. Please contact me by private message, and I will be glad to give you that Code. If we are not yet friends, please make a friend request so that I can give you additional information privately.
For those who would have the opportunity to stay longer and enjoy some just plain fun hangin' out together, that would be WONDERFUL to schedule a few extra days at the motel. There are always fun things to do in the area, and we certainly don't want to rule out the all-favorite thing of talking, talking, talking.
I'm looking forward to your replies as to whether you can join the Gathering. The circle keeps growing! TJ
I hope you will consider joining us. It will be a day to connect and put a face with a nameat last! The other Gatherings have been great fun and uplifting. I think it surprised all of us how quickly we bonded. Conversations ranged from lighthearted and fun loving to camaraderie between determined survivors. What a special group of people the DSers arekindhearted, supportive, and compassionate.
OHIO GATHERING
WHEN:
September 16-18, 2011. The main day being Saturday, September 17, 11:30 a.m.
WHERE:
The Gathering will be held at my house (address to be given by private message), and, if weather permits, I will be sure to have the bonfire going for our evening S'mores. I promise, my DS friends who gave me a hard time last year, I WILL eat a S'more and not pick it apart and eat the Hershey bar, then the marshmallow, and finally the Graham Crackers. I had to endure a little rib poking about my idiosyncrasy, but all's well that ends well. It was yummyall three parts!
LODGING:
Hampton Inn, 11484 Allen Road, Jeffersonville, OH 43128 (same as last year for those of you who will be returning) (1-71 Exit 65 @ Route 35) (740-948-9499), $89.00, not including tax. This includes a hot Continental Breakfast.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
To receive the special price, there is a Code to mention when making your reservation. Please contact me by private message, and I will be glad to give you that Code. If we are not yet friends, please make a friend request so that I can give you additional information privately.
For those who would have the opportunity to stay longer and enjoy some just plain fun hangin' out together, that would be WONDERFUL to schedule a few extra days at the motel. There are always fun things to do in the area, and we certainly don't want to rule out the all-favorite thing of talking, talking, talking.
I'm looking forward to your replies as to whether you can join the Gathering. The circle keeps growing! TJ
Still trying to see if it will work out for me. Would like to meet all of you. You have all been such an encouragement to me for the last three years.
It is a week before Sonnys birthday so I am not sure how I will be feeling.
I will let you know a little closer to the date. You are just a few hours from me. By the way is Joley going to make it?
Christine
Phil 4:13
Anne
Congrats on your upcoming marriage. To find love again after the sorrows of loss is truly a gift. I couldn't be happier for you.
You will be missed at the Gathering in September. Your presence at the other Gatherings around the country was very much appreciated, and it was always good to have input from the gentleman's point of view. It made for some lively conversations.
We'll miss you, Dave. Blessings to you. TJ
Nan
Wmsbaby, I sure wish you would reconsider. I have been contacted by some members who have never attended but will be attending this Gathering for the first time. Only you know when you will be ready, but could I cautiously hope :>) that maybe you will feel that freedom by the time September 17 is here? Just call me an optimist!
Nan (nan55), I'm sorry that the Gathering conflicts with your outing with your granddaughter. That weekend will certainly be a memory-maker, and it sounds like a great time to relax and enjoy her presence. Sure wish it was another time so you could be with us. It seems as though there is always a Gathering sometime during the summer each year, and there are small "connect" luncheons that seem to happen spontaneously with those in the same locale.
Loran (LoranSW), Your comment to Dave (oatsguy) sounded hopeful for your joining us here in Buckeye Country. YAY! Tune up your guitar, and we W & W's will be ready. Where I live, only the racoons and cows will here us, so we're safe (for those of us who aren't musically inclined). TJ
Lori
Christine
I am hoping to come - a little concerned about the car making it that far though - so we shall see.
As for those who are apprehensive - I was at Indiana gathering & Ohio - you have nothing to be apprehensive about - you will meet many of the same people and you will come away saying they are some of the nicest people you know.
TJ has a beautiful, large, house in the country with lots of land - and really went out of her way the make everything great. We stayed in the same motel - it seemed like we were family on a vacation. We had a bonfire in the yard, lots of food - if you are anywhere near Ohio - make an effort to attend. You might be surprised how quickly you can connect with people who are experiencing the same thing - it was fun.