The leaves have just about fallen from the trees, painting our New England landscape in its final, stunning autumn hues. I love the colors this time of year, though for those of you who know me well, I find I say that about each and every season we spend living here. The season of Thanksgiving is now upon us, and as I reflect on this time of year, my primary source of gratitude is this incredible community: Greenwich Pen Women. When I think about all the wonderful things this group continues to do—the commitment, the talent, and the support—I am truly in awe. 

Hopefully you will join us for Film Night with GPW member Roberta Seret as she leads us in a discussion on The Crime is Mine, November 10 @ 7:30 pm on Zoom. Bring your glass of wine and popcorn to the call and sit back and let’s have fun. Feel free to bring a friend! Be sure to watch the film prior to coming. All details are on the website under Calendar. 

Our strength, however, is not found in the collective alone; it resides in the brilliance and dedication of each one of you. Over the past few weeks, the energy and output from our members have been extraordinary. Whether you’ve been putting pen to paper, brush to canvas or preparing a presentation, or lending your expertise to a fellow member, your impact is felt deeply. I want to take a moment to shine a light on some of the recent accomplishments and the exciting work happening now. First please welcome our newest Art member Gabriela Damacela.

We have exciting news on our Letters front as well! We are deeply thankful to Christ Church for graciously agreeing to host our Letters critique meetings for the season, providing us with a beautiful and supportive new space to share and discuss our work. I also want to pause and publicly celebrate the recent accolades received by several members. Their successes are a testament to the talent within our ranks and the power of putting your work out into the world.

Congratulations to Judy Crystal and Doris Mady who were recognized by NLPW as finalists in the Cross-Genre Competition. Cathy Horn was spotlighted as a Featured Member on NLAPW’s website. Barbara Ehrentreau received the Silver Award in the favorite.com‘s 2025 contest for her book If I Could Be Like Jennifer Taylor. Leigh Grant whose book Artimon was named Honorable Mention in Writer’s Digest Self Published Book Awards 

Congrats also to Heidi Matonis who recently became an Art member! I also want to acknowledge her role in overseeing another successful Open Mic at the Greenwich Library. We had a full program with six of our own GPW sharing their work.  Thank you Heidi!!! She also did a book talk at the Perrot Library which was a success as well!!!  One more thanks goes out to Margaret Simon for opening her home for our Art critique!!!

As we pause to give thanks this month, please know that your contribution to this vibrant tapestry of creative women is invaluable. I wish you and your loved ones a beautiful, peaceful Thanksgiving.