T Stands for 2OLOTR: Authentic Women Circle and International Women's Day

The real reason Teague and took a trip to Ogunquit, Maine was to attend the Authentic Women Circle. Teague has belonged to this group for many years. I wasn't a member but have participated in a couple of the events. I taught a Japanese stab binding album for the group many years ago and also participated in the Circle when the group moved to Ogunquit 15 years ago and this weekend was the anniversary. The meeting also fell on International Women's Day so that was celebrated also. The leader asked Teague if I would like to tag along. 

I loved the blue, wooden, fish sculpture that was in our suite. I was tempted to put him in a Fish Relocation Program and bring him home with me.

Saturday morning, March 8 was still cold, but not as windy.

The function room set up for the Circle. There were 12 women in attendance. I was the only new person in this group though I knew the leader as she and Teague are good friends. We have also visited her at her home when we have traveled to Ogunquit. Her daughters also attended the group, I had heard about them when they were little.

The Circle opened with music performed by Teague and her guitar. The format of the group is that each person gets a chance to talk. So I introduced myself as Teague's imaginary friend as so many people said to me "Oh, so you're CJ!"

We had been asked to bring photos of women who had inspired us. We did a show and tell about our women and what they meant to us.

At the other end of the function room, tables were set for luncheon

We had a wonderful view of the ocean

and a delicious, buffet lunch. Pictured are Avocado Caprese Sandwiches which I did not take as I do not like cheese. I was fascinated by the apple swan. There was also a lovely squash and apple soup, salad with chicken, green beans Almondine, and cranberry upside down cake. Water, coffee, and tea were available during the entire Circle.

In the afternoon, we had a half hour craft session where we chose a name from a pot. We could make a card or write a note to the person.

I received this lovely card

filled with wonderful affirmations: You are so loved. You are enough. You are such a gift. You are special.

The afternoon continued with learning some of the history of International Women's Day. 

Gorgeous orchid

Then we were asked to comment on something that was a highlight of the day. I think it was at this point or it might have been earlier, that a woman who had been sitting across from me said she had been in the Japanese Stab Bound Album class and still had her album!

The Circle ended with another song from Teague and the group joined in the chorus.

A shadow box table filled with gifts from the sea

An amazing day ended with  a beautiful 

sunset.

Drop by hosts, Bleubeard and Elizabeth's blog to find out what the rest of the T Stands For gang is up to. If you want to play, include in your Tuesday post a beverage or container for a beverage. Don't forget to link your blog to Bleubeard and Elizabeth's page.