Last weekend, twelve women from West Pennant Hills (and friends of WPHs) gathered in Toukley for our Women’s Retreat. The weather forecast? Rain. And it delivered! But thanks to our spacious 11-bedroom Airbnb, we stayed warm, dry, and happily tucked away together. With a comfy lounge and a kitchen big enough for a small army, we had everything we needed to worship, laugh, learn, and occasionally eat snacks and slices.
Friday evening we arrived, found our rooms, shared a meal, and kicked things off with “Modified Family Feud” hosted by Kass — complete with plenty of laughter, a touch of competitiveness, and some fun get-to-know-you activities.
Saturday began with Tai Chi with June Stephenson (a graceful start, even if a few of us were still half-asleep). Candice then led a gratitude session, Kass got us thinking deeply and engaged in discussion, while Nancy guided us through a beautiful reflection on the shadows within us. Our creative time saw us blending our own chai spices — producing a brew so strong it kept the conversations flowing well past bedtime.
When the rain stopped briefly, we seized the moment heading straight into the spa and sauna, with a few adventurous souls plunging into the ice-cold pool (purely for “health reasons,” of course). As the rain returned, we retreated indoors for Pictionary and a “campfire” worship with Gwenda Ferrett, candles standing in for flames, but the warmth, spirit and joy were just as real.
Sunday began with a lovely worship service led by Charmaine Unger, before we made a short trip to Norah Head Lighthouse for a walk. The weather gently hinted that we might prefer lunch at a local café instead…so we graciously obeyed.
It was a weekend filled with friendship, faith, and far too many laughs to count. Special thanks to Charmaine for scouring Airbnb for the perfect venue; it really was just right.
Our next gathering will be the Easter Retreat at Tiona—a long weekend of connection, reflection, and hopefully a little more sunshine…the children and men can even join us.
Thanks to all who gathered, and to the team who planned the retreat.
Candice Care-Unger
WPH Pastor
