November begins the time for home and family and remembering why we need one another. Certainly I know this every day all year long, but somehow the Wisconsin chill of November makes me want to snuggle into the familiar, and to reach out to those I know and love. This November is no different, and in some ways I'm more vulnerable to that need as our family struggles to right itself after the recent loss of two very beloved members. Some days it feels as though the North Star has shifted a bit and the way forward is lonely, dimmed, and uncertain.
Our community family becomes more important during times like these. West Bend is my hometown, and nearly every day I bump into someone I've known for a long time; someone I've worked with, someone who taught at my school a hundred gazillion years ago, or someone who is an old acquaintance and now a brand-new friend. The feeling of belonging and familiarity is a sort of homecoming, and perhaps that's why I'm as happy to be part of local events that support local people as I am on the road with events of national distinction.
When Karen Wysocky asked me to participate in the West Bend High School Choir Extravaganza fundraiser, it was an easy "yes." Karen is not only a friend, she is a talented musician who accompanies me occasionally - yes, I can sing. She is the director of choirs and extraordinary school musicals, and the vocal music program at the high schools wouldn't be the same without her. So many talented students from our area go on to do big things in music. Join us at the West Bend West High School Cafeteria this Saturday!
November 12
West Bend High School Choir Extravaganza Fundraiser
9AM – 4PM
West Bend West Cafeteria
West Bend, WI
I used to work with Jenny Smith a long time ago at the West Bend School District Office - when I was a school nursing consultant to the district. Jenny stopped in at the studio a few months ago, and we caught up a bit. She works with Citizen Advocacy of Washington County, and invited me to participate in their fundraiser, Wine, Women, & Whatever on November 18 - now I'm inviting you! The website describes their role in the community: "Citizen Advocacy is an independent, non-profit organization that creates and supports one-on-one relationships between volunteer advocates and people with developmental disabilities."
November 18
Wine, Women, & Whatever
Citizen Advocacy of Washington County
5PM – 10PM
Chandelier Ballroom
Hartford, WI
Monica cuts my hair. Monica is my younger sister's best friend. Monica and her sister were some of the kids I babysat for a loooooong time ago. Monica would not be happy if I told you how long ago that was. Monica invited me to be part of a Ladies' Night Out shopping event to raise food and funds for local food pantries, and so I'm going. I hope you can join us, too. Wegner's Cedar Lake Inn is located on Big Cedar Lake in Washington County. The lake is a beautiful spot all year 'round, and the perfect spot for a rustic inn that has big-windowed views and lots of character. Bring a non-perishable food item and join in the fun!
November 19
4th Annual Ladies’ Night Out
Benefits the local Food Pantry
4PM – 9PM
Wegner’s Cedar Lake Inn
Hartford, WI
We really do need one another to laugh with and to cry with; to support each other when times are good and when they are difficult. Community spirit is alive and well. Join us!
Comments