“We’ve Got Stories” is the Theme for the 2017 Girlfriends Getaway to Martha’s Vineyard

Nationwide — Sisters & Friends Getaway to Martha’s Vineyard’s 2017 theme is “We’ve Got Stories.” In addition to a fun week to relax, rejuvenate, laugh and reflect, storytelling sessions focus on joy, trials and triumphs of women whose life experiences will motivate others. “Through storytelling, our hearts and souls can find journeys of celebration and healing,” says Dr. Margaret Pettigrew, Associate Professor/Director, Global Health OBGYN & Reproductive Biology at MacDonald Women’s Hospital. She will lead a discussion during Sisters and Friends Getaway.

Storytelling is a powerful way to help others. Given the myths about Black women not supporting one another, sharing our journey serves to give counsel and encourages others to pursue their aspirations. By not holding back on talking about the tough and celebratory events in our lives helps women see in themselves the power of overcoming and the rewards when facing challenging experiences.

“We’ve Got Stories” – what gets us down, what pulls us up, how far to go or how far we’ve come will be woven into the Sisters & Friends activities including line dancing, YOGA, shopping, island tours and in the Vendor Showcase. Another speaker Delores Pratt-Chandler will share details in her book “Grain of Hope: A Mother’s Memoir” of how she faced the loss of those closest to her and held onto her belief that she would overcome and find meaning, peace and happiness in life.

You can plan storytelling to enhance formal or informal family and friends’ gatherings. Create a theme for the stories to have greater meaning for your group.

Here are four tips to use:

#1 – Ask for volunteers to share a story of overcoming or celebration.
#2 – Set timer for 7 minutes for each speaker.
#3 – Encourage brief comments after each speaker.
#4 – Designate a moderator to keep on track.

What began ten years ago as a trip to Martha’s Vineyard with 13 sisters and friends has blossomed into an adventure with more than 100 women varied ages and stages in life from around the country to connect, relax and rejuvenate. From morning dips in the ocean to sunset Yoga on the beach, the trip is a make your own agenda vacation.

Sisters and Friends Getaway to Martha’s Vineyard is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the motivating bond of sisterhood. Dates are September 10-17 or 17-23, for information visit www.sistersandfriends.com or call (412) 400-8809.

Also, follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SistersandFriendsGetaway/