SOPHIE'S GATHERING invites all the women of GFC to participate in the Awakening Joy Event scheduled for Tuesday, May 14 at Renie McCutchen's home.  The evening's festivities begin with a light supper and refreshments at 7pm, followed by a presentation and conversation with Nancy Ferriello:  Awakening Joy:  Simple Ways to build More Joy Into Your Daily Experience!  Participants will learn practical tips on lifestyle choices which they can implement to support good physical, emotional and spiritual health.  A Visual Presentation will include conversation and opportunity for questions and comments.  Contact Renie McCutchen or Maren Hood for more information or to RSVP.

Nancy Ferriello is a Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist and founder of Westport Nutrition Consulting.  For over 25 years she has been helping adults and adolescents make lifestyle changes through individual nutrition counseling and has worked as a consultant to a variety of food, healthcare, and not-for-profit agencies.  Visit Nancy's website for more information:  www.nutritiontoliveby.info

SOPHIE'S GATHERING COOK AND TASTE   Oh, the weather outside is frightful......mmmmm cup of chili, mashed potatoes, comfort food.  Yet all those calories!  Attend the 2013 Sophia's Gathering Cook and Taste Event on Thursday, January 24 and learn to make comfort foods with a healthier bent.  Cooking demonstration and tasting will be held at Aitoro's in Norwalk, in their gorgeous Viking kitchen from 6pm-8pm.  $25/person, includes light appetizers, wine & demo tastings.  Space is limited to 15 people.  Please reply using your Evite or by signing the Interest Sheet in the Sunday Bulletin.  We need your check no later than Tuesday, January 22.  Timely head count is important and space is limited, so please RSVP early and drop off or mail you check to the church office with Sophia's Cook & Taste in the memo section.

SOPHIA’S GATHERING had an interesting month in November!  We were all planning on a great retreat, Time to Heal, when along came Super Storm Sandy, and all the plans came to a screeching halt!  All agreed it was a good decision to cancel, and St. Birgitta’s Sister Eunice graciously let us reschedule with no penalty on Saturday, April 20, 2013.  Thanks to all those who were so supportive during this experience, and to all who had signed up and paid, for their understanding and patience.  See you all in April!

Now we are looking forward to our Women’s Christmas Coffee on Thursday, December 13 from 9:30-11:30 AM in the parlor.  You won’t recognize the parlor as it will be all dressed up in its Christmas finery, thanks to hosts Nancy Aldrich and Audrey Demetres, the “dynamic Duo” who is becoming famous for creating a parlor transformation in just a couple of hours.  The whole planning Board is involved in this event, with each member contributing their favorite delicious snack to delight the rest of us.  You simply can’t miss this warm, welcoming gathering!  Your Evite will arrive soon, thanks to our incredible Communications chairperson, Nancy Esteva, so please let us know that you will join us, and it will be our pleasure to welcome you!