The blanket of snow has melted, and March is finally giving way to the colors of April! There is a specific kind of electricity in the air this month—that “spring cleaning” energy that does not just apply to our homes, but to our studios and writing desks as well. As the days stretch longer, I find myself leaning further into the joy of cultivating new ideas and strengthening the connections that make this branch so special.

We have an incredible month of “firsts” and “big stages” ahead of us as we continue to let our collective creative voice ring out!

I am thrilled to invite you all to a very special collaboration, “Impressions in Ink & Ivory,” taking place at the Wilton Library on April 13 at 7 pm. This performance is a true testament to the multi-sensory spirit of Pen Women, blending poetry and music in a way that I hope will leave you feeling inspired. Please come out and support—it means the world to see your faces in the audience!

Later this month, from April 24–26, Marla Chisholm, Maria Friscia, and I will be heading to the capital for the NLAPW Biennial Conference. We are so looking forward to representing the Greenwich branch and bringing back fresh perspectives and national news. If you haven’t registered yet, check nlapw.org to see if you can squeeze in a last-minute trip!

Save the Date: Our Annual Meeting

Please mark your calendars for the Greenwich Pen Women Annual Meeting on Sunday, May 3. This is a vital time for us to gather, celebrate our year of growth, and announce our upcoming awards. Barbara O’Shea has graciously offered to host us again in her lovely home. Details will be posted on the website soon, and you will also receive an invitation to forward to a friend who may be interested in becoming a member!

Our community continues to shine. From the wonderful turnout at our recent Art Exhibit at Round Hill Community Church to the poetry readings at the Greenwich Library, your presence and bravery in sharing your work is what makes us thrive.

A huge thank you to Lynn Garelick and Doris Mady for the wonderful spread at our reception, and to Karen Heffner in making sure the art was labeled properly. To all the artists who participated, it was a joy to see your beautiful work. Pen Women, if you haven’t seen the art show yet, it will remain on display until May 7 (9am-3pm, Monday – Friday)  Also thanks to Heidi Matonis for coordinating a successful Poetry Open Mic with the Greenwich Library.

Huge congratulations to Leigh Grant! Her novel, Mask of Dreams, has hit #1 on Amazon for both Renaissance Historical Fiction and Women’s Historical Fiction. Bravo, Leigh! We also celebrate Joyce DiCamillo for her recent stellar concert and her tireless work mentoring young musicians in their love for music. Thanks for your leadership in shaping the next generation of musicians. Whether you are finishing a manuscript, framing a canvas, or recording a new track, please share your wins so we can celebrate you here!

I keep saying, no wonder we keep getting new members, March was no different!! Please join me in welcoming our newest member, Liz Borecki, who has already brought such vibrant energy to our poetry group and open mics.

As we move through this month, I encourage you to find a moment of “deliberate over-stimulation”—go to a museum, listen to a new genre of music, or simply watch the April light change. Let’s keep pushing our craft forward, together.

See you in Wilton!
Onward and upward,

Adrienne Reedy