Women's Weekend

St Jude's Women's Weekend - April 27-29, 2012
St Francis Retreat Center, San Juan Bautista (note: new location)

A little history:
After our 2009 weekend at Bishop's Ranch and then 2010/2011 at St Dorothy's Rest, some participants requested a venue a little closer to home and a little more accessible.  
So, last fall (a year ago), we reserved space at St Francis Retreat Center in San Juan Bautista for the spring 2012 women's weekend. 

What, where, and why St Francis Retreat Center?
St Francis Retreat Center is a beautiful location just an hour south of Cupertino.  Settlement of the property dates back almost 200 years.  The retreat center was established in 1947 by the Franciscan Fathers.  The main ranch house was destroyed by a fire in 2006 but a new building re-opened in 2009 for gathering space and dining services.  The remaining buildings have 50-60 double rooms (each with its own bathroom), gathering spaces both large and small, and a chapel.  On the grounds there are walking paths, gardens, and a lake.
All of the gathering spaces are handicap-accessible and we can request accessible rooms as needed.

For more information about the location, see:  www.stfrancisretreat.com

What is planned for the weekend?
For those who haven't attended a women's weekend, the weekend can be whatever you want it to be.  For some, it's a wonderful opportunity to explore a new place, do some hiking or biking, or take a day trip somewhere.  For others, it's fabulous "down time" to just sit and relax without having to worry about the daily schedule, grocery shopping, preparing meals, etc.  For most, it's a great opportunity to meet other women from St Jude's and get to know them better!!

We'll put out some ideas for Saturday activities once we get a little closer to the date!   If you would like to help brainstorm these ideas and organize some information, please volunteer!!
Saturday evening, Gail Sena has offered to organize a bunco game for all who would like to participate.  If you haven't played bunco before, it's a great time to try it out.  No skill or experience needed - just a lot of fun, a great mixer, and who knows - maybe some prizes??

We have use of the chapel for a Sunday morning service and any other services during the weekend that we might desire.

How much does it cost and how do I sign up?

The cost for the weekend will be $175 (double occupancy), which includes 2 night's accommodation and all meals from Friday night through Sunday lunch (including Saturday lunch).  Single rooms will cost extra - $220 for the weekend.  
These are the direct costs from St Francis and we recognize that it is a little more expensive than the last several years.
Full or partial scholarship assistance is available - talk to one of us or to Sherridan.

We will work out carpooling and room-sharing when the weekend draws near.

Right now, we are trying to get an idea of how many women are interested in attending.  
Unlike our weekends at St Dorothy's Rest, we have a limited number of rooms available.  We have space for a maximum of 56 women, so early registration is encouraged.

Full payment will be needed by 2/15/12 as we need to provide 60 days notice for significant changes in number of attendees.
If your plans change, your deposit can be refunded up until 2/15/12.  
After 2/15, we will be committed for our rooms and will only be able to refund your payments if there is someone to fill your space.

If you have any questions, please ask us!

Hoping to see many of you at next year's weekend!
Jennifer and Pat