What a lovely time of year to be in the Bay Area; how very lucky we are! Many of us are planning on vacations late in the year, and it’s not too early to think about Halloween, Thanksgiving, and yes, even Christmas!

Calling all memoir writing folks—and folks who want to write a bit about their life and times! Our memoir writing class would love to add new members to this group. Text Leslie at leslie@cina.com for more information. These meetings encourage folks to write about any events of their past either to pass on special memories to future generations or just for their own benefit. A truly special program taught by an experienced writing teacher.

TGIF was wonderful at Liz Nyberg’s in September (see photos below). We are looking forward to TGIF at Tom Gutshall’s house on October 17. As usual, bring some food to share, and your own beverage and glass. As always, many, many thanks to Vicki for making these arrangements; Newcomers do love to get together in person!

Many thanks to the many people who submitted nominations for the Newcomer book club program, 2025 through 2026. I have tallied the votes and listed the winning books for the next 12 months. I alternated between fiction and nonfiction books, and long and short books, wherever possible. There are so many excellent books on the list that it seems a shame to limit it. All are available in book form, kindle, and audiobook form. Our book to discuss for October 16 via Zoom is “Tom Lake“ by Ann Patchett, always a popular writer.

We’ll have our usual activities in October, such as Investment group, Legacies, Mah-Jongg, Bridge, and book club. Styling is currently in hiatus.

Cheers, Birgitta and Leslie