Women's Weekend 2026

That's a wrap on the 5th Annual Connecting Women, Connecting with Nature women's retreat organized by the Western MA Chapter. Women of all ages from MA to VA gathered at the H.A. Moses Scout Reservation in Russell, MA to share their love of nature, music, art, yoga, dance, and mindfulness in the beautiful Berkshire foothills. Most of the participants and presenters arrived Friday evening and gathered in the main lodge for a delicious dinner of homemade soups, sourdough bread, and salad, then at the firepit for singing along to great classic folk songs. On Saturday, a beautiful sunny fall-like day, participants chose workshops to attend which included paddling, hikes, yoga, creative writing, art, campfire cooking, line dancing, and edible plant walk. Before dinner, author Darryl McGrath talked about her book The Message Catcher which is a novel based on her own experience of backpacking on the Appalachian Trail to help deal with the grief of losing her husband. Dinner of homemade lasagna followed then more singing by the campfire. Sunday's rain caused some modifications to the schedule but most of the activities occurred as the rain began in earnest around 10:00. The women enjoyed yoga, hiking, an autumnal equinox art workshop, matchless fire starting, and paddling. The closing circle brought the group together to express gratitude for the opportunity to be part of this incredible event and share in a singing meditation in three parts about breathing in peace, breathing out love - a very moving experience. Many thanks to organizer Dawne Piers-Gamble, and assistants Kathy Martin, Laura Stinnette, Jeannette Pierce, and Nancy Mack, all the presenters who shared their expertise, and the participants who brought their joy and energy. More Photos