The Shack May 17th 2010

The Shack by William P. Young

Chosen by: Michelle

Location: Rudy's Redeye Grill in Lakeville

When I started reading this story, I was terrified, and my heart was pounding as it described how a young girl was taken from her family's campsite and murdered in the woods, at a "shack" by a serial killer. It is a parent's worst nightmare. I wanted to put it down, but like a bad traffic accident, you just have to keep looking. The story's focus is on the father, and his struggle with the death, grieving, his marriage, the relationship with his other kids, and with God. It is a God meets Man book and I just couldn't get on board with. Although gripping at first, it became preachy, dreamy, uncomfortable. I'm all about imagery and metaphor, and I do think he painted a beautiful picture of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost, but I started to feel like the book was telling me how I should think and I sensed my defenses rising up as I was reading. The author tries to answer the question, "where is God in times of unspeakable pain", and I often wonder that myself, especially working at a Children's hospital, but I just wasn't a fan of the way he went about it. The reviews are very positive for this novel, but some of us Open Tablers didn't care for it a whole lot.

Jessica and Christina are BOTH pregnant and due this fall, October! They are both feeling well and look fabulous....glowing as they say. It was a good night, as usual. I don't remember there being other new news. Twin Cities Hospital Union talks are hot hot hot. We may strike. We vote in 2 days on a one day strike. That affects Carolyn, Kelli, Kerry and I. What do you do? Frustrating.

Gilgamesh - March 13th 2010

Gilgamesh by Joan London

Chosen by: Christina

Location: La Grolla in St. Paul

The Epic of Gilgamesh is an ancient poem from Mesopotamia (present day Iraq) and is among the earliest known works of literature. Scholars believe that it originated as a series of Sumerian legends and poems about the hero-king Gilgamesh, which were fashioned into a longer Akkadian epic much later. - Taken from Wikapedia

This was a tale of a woman and her sister, growing up in rural Australia, virtually isolated from the world, aside from the resort up the hill. One day a relative, Leopold, and his friend, Aram, show up to see their mother and spend some time in Australia after an archeological dig in Iran. They tell the girls their stories of adventure and talk often about Gilgamesh, which is a novel about two buddies, Gilgamesh and Ekidu. Edith falls for Aram, becomes pregnant, and Frances retreats in fear from their world. Edith goes on a search, with her son, to find her true love, or something. It seems everyone in the book is searching for something. It was a well written story, but only a couple of us finished it.

We had a nice Italian dinner at LaGrolla. I think everyone made it too, which is always so nice. Whenever we are together, I always wish we could do it more often, but feel fortunate that we do it at all. It forces us busy women to make time for ourselves and our friends. Yeah us.

Remember Me? - January 25th 2010

Remember Me? by Sophia Kinsella

Chosen by: Ryan

Location: Crave at the Galleria in Edina

Well, we are having another blizzard on bookclub night. I think the snow gods may have it out for us. Carolyn and Michelle were unable to make it tonight but the rest of us were there, including Kerry's sister Kate. This makes it Kate's second meeting...she is staying in MN for awhile helping Kerry out as she is currently an unemployed grad student and has the opportunity to hang with her nieces for a few months.

This was a fun night, lots of laughs and conversations really flowed. I didn't want to leave my girls ;o)

Most of us read the book and it was a quick beach type read, which helps us busy moms who don't have time to read the cereal box sitting in front of us some days, much less a novel. It is about Lexi, a girl who gets amnesia after a car accident and can't recall a moment of her last 3 years. In the hospital, she meets her eccentric and flighty mother, her sneaky smart alec little sister, and her greek-god looking husband (she can't remember even having a boyfriend). It is funny to think about this happening to you as you read this, if you missed 3 years. She goes on to be initially impressed with her fantasy type real life, but as she discovers more about her current life, she does not like the person she has become nor the people that she calls her friends. She misses her old friends that she has estranged and she has become a success hungry shallow person who somewhere lost who she really is. There is a man, of course, who she is involved with, that tells her they were in love and she was going to leave the ho-hum cold husband that she is with. It takes him awhile to convince her that he, in fact, knows the real Lexi and that she does still exist and that they were happy. I like a story with a happy ending when all the loose ends tie up. We all enjoyed the read.

The Book Thief - December 2009 - the 7th Annual Limo Light Tour

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Chosen by: Kelli

Location: Chino Latino in Uptown Mpls

Can't believe it's already time for another limo tour!!! We met at Chino Latino and all ordered small plates and shared. The food is so yummy there that you really can't go wrong. We all were able to make it this year which is thrilling!! The limo picked us up and away we went for another year of wine, giggles and crazy gawdy lights. Actually this year we toured some of the more classy neighborhoods. We jumped out for another picture on some random steps and when we got back to the restaurant, some of us just weren't quite ready to call it quits, so we went over to Calhoun Square and had some Bailey's and coffee and wound down the night.

This book was one of my favorites we have ever read from book club. At the time of the meeting, I had not finished it, only Christina and Kelli had, and they both really enjoyed it, but I did finish it over Christmas and I loved it! It was so unique and emotional and suspenseful, and I was sad when it was over. I kept thinking and thinking about it. Death narrates this WWII era story about a young girl, Leisel Meminger, and her tragic young life. She steals her first book, The Gravedigger's Handbook, at the cemetary where they leave the body of her younger brother, who died in front of her on a train. Her mother, sick, desperate and devastated, her husband already taken away by the communists, takes Leisel to live with a family in Molching, Germany. Her foster mother, Rosa, is harsh and shows her "tough love" while her foster father, Hans, is her rock. He is loving, and nurturing to this lost little girl, and he is "home" to her. Leisel wakes every night from nightmares about her brother and mother, and Hans gets up with her and sits through the night with her, teaching her to read from her stolen book. She goes on to steal a more books and they are her most prized possession. A big part of the story is Max, the Jewish young man that the family hides in their basement. I just can not even begin to imagine the terror, anger, pain, hunger and saddness that a person can take. The author does a great job at character development and brought me to tears several times as well as made my stomach physically nauseous. I love the way he portrayed Death as well. Death basically wasn't too bad of a guy and was just doing his job, which he felt really bad about most of the time. He talked about how busy he was during those years and he kept coming back to watch Leisel bec. she caught his attention when she stole the book from the cemetary. I loaned this book out to some friends, who loved it equally as much as I did, and I can't wait to get it back to read it again, if I can emotionally bring myself to do it. It takes a toll on a person. Good pick Kelli.

The Girls - October 26th 2009T

The Girls by Lori Lansens

Chosen by: Jessica

Location: Kona Grill in Eden Prairie

So, we haven't met in quite a while. There have been 2 babies born: Ryan had Quinn Caitlynn in May and Kerry had Stella Sarabeth in October. They are both very cute, healthy and happy and Stella came to her first meeting tonight and slept through most of it.

There has also been some great losses in bookclub since our last meeting.

Christina was expecting her second baby this fall, but there were complications beyond anyone's control, and Ezra Allen was born early in May and passed away a few hours later surrounded by his mommy and daddy's love. We can't begin to know what Jamie and Christina have been through this last year. Just know that our sisterhood is always here to listen and support you Christina, we love you.

Just recently, in September, Michelle's mom passed away from a long battle with lung cancer. Ryan and I were lucky enough to meet her on several occasions and she was an amazingly strong, funny and loving woman. Michelle, we love you too. You have been in our thoughts and we are always here.

I think most of us did read the book and liked it. It was a fictional story about twin girls, Ruby and Rose Darlen, who are conjoined at the head. Their birth mother abandoned them, so the nurse that delivered them, childless herself, takes them in and raises them, a blessing in their life. Aunt Lovey they call her. Lovey Darlen, what a name. Stash, her husband, is a Polish immigrant who has a great big heart and loves those girls. I think the author did a great job in developing these characters, because there were times I forgot that it was fiction. There is a situation in the book that a lot of us thought unnecessary and "cheapened" the story a bit. One of the girls get pregnant from an awkward and strange encounter with a local boy. They keep it a secret and give the baby up for adoption, but it haunts them always, esp. Rose, the one who was pregnant. As the book goes on, Rose and Ruby, being the oldest living twins conjoined at the head, decide to write their autobiography and that is how we learn about them individually. Quite clever.

We had a good discussion, good dinner and good company. I think this may be the first time in a LONG time that none of us are pregnant!!

The Last Days of the Romanovs - April 4th 2009

The Last Days of the Romonovs by Helen Rappaport

Chosen by: Carolyn

Location: Kerry's in West St. Paul

Tonight we met at Kerry's because Carolyn ended up having to work, and was unable to make it. Kerry was nice enough to offer her house up, even though she's leaving for California with the girls in the morning. News: Kerry is pregnant with baby #3 too!! She is due in October and has already found out that it is a girl! 3 girls for Kerry and Randy. Aww, what a fun little tutu house they will have.

Kerry had picked up Papa Murphy's Pizza and we brought some sides and wine. Nice and easy.

We had a long discussion on the joys and fears of pregnancy and parenthood. When you have children, you really put your entire being out there for whatever comes, good or bad, and all of our hearts will break wide open at one point or another, but there is nothing more rewarding and amazing than being a mommy.

As far as the book goes, none of us read it, not even Carolyn. I started it, and I think the subject matter is interesting, but I just couldn't stay awake to get very far. The book is a historical account of the last 2 weeks in the lives of the Romanov family up to their assassination by the Bolsheviks of the Russian Revolution. The reviews seemed to be mixed, but since none of us read it, there wasn't much to discuss.

Anne of Green Gables - February 9th 2009

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery

Chosen by: Kerry

Location: The Wild Onion

We were going to meet at Kerry's house, but she ended up getting sick, so we switched to the Wild Onion. Kelli didn't make it either as her hubby Ryan has been sick too. I think the rest of us made it though, and most of us actually read the book....even Jessica ;o). News tonight, Christina is expecting baby number two!! Our group is just growing and growing! Our family get togethers are going to be quite the experience now. The more the merrier! Ryan is due in May and feeling good.

This novel is a coming of age classic tale of Anne Shirley, a charming, adorable, talkative and lovable, red-haired girl who is adopted by an elderly couple (brother and sister) who had applied for a boy. It is warm and funny and uplifting. There is a reason it is a classic and has been made into movies and a TV series. I look forward to sharing this story with my own girls in a few years.

The Witch's Trinity - December 8th 2008 - 6th Annual Holiday Limo Tour

The Witch's Trinity by Erika Mailman

Chosen by: Michelle

Location: Axel's Bonfire Grill - St. Paul

Well, there we were again on another snowy winter night ready for the city to dazzle us with it's fabulous lighting displays. There was a pretty serious snow storm going on that we had to battle through to make it here tonight. Surprisingly, we ALL made it! All eight of us! Kerry arrived late as she had to scramble to find a sitter, and ordered some food to go. She then asked the waiter if he could put her beer into a "to go cup" because our limo was here. The funny thing is that it made so much sense to her at the time ;o)

We didn't speak much about the book, except for the fact that none of us read it, not even Michelle who normally loves scary stories. It was pretty creepy. I made it a few chapters, but didn't want to have bad dreams, so I quit. It was set in medieval Germany in a town suffering from hunger and bad crops for 2 years and they blame it on witchcraft. It's frightening, the mob mentality that is still very real today, and it frightening just what humans will do to each other in desperate times.

Some more exciting news: Ryan is expecting baby #3!!! She is showing a little bit but is all belly and is adorable. We didn't really have any token drunks this night. We are all getting too old I guess. Getting up with kids with a wee bit of a hangover isn't all that fun. After touring around, we came back to Bonfire and ordered some after dinner drinks and talked for a bit longer. I think we could talk forever if time allowed. Merry Christmas!

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan - October 27th 2008

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See

Chosen by: Christina

Location: Christina's house in St. Paul

Tonight we ordered Chinese take out and Jamie went to pick it up! Great idea. It's our first time getting take out. Connor came with me for his second meeting. He just likes hanging with the ladies. We sat and chatted for awhile talking about our kids and funny things they say. I remember almost peeing my pants laughing so hard when Jessica told us that Cody that day had said "Aw, mom, how come you get an apple and I don't?" They were in the car, so when Jessica had a minute, she went to give him the apple and he waved his hand at her and said nonchalantly "Nah, that's ok, I had a booger." You just can't make up that stuff.

This historical fiction novel was set in 19th century rural China. It centers around two girls, Lily and Snow Flower, who are very good friends or "old sames", and their journey through the trials and rituals and rigid rules that women of their time and culture have to follow. The secret fan is a what they used to communicate with each other, kind of like mail. They used an ancient, secret code called nu shu and would write messages on the ridges of the fan and deliver this between their two houses. Her detailed descriptions of foot binding were horrific and nauseating, yet captivating. It is so hard to imagine that this was still going on in China, not too long ago. It is unfathomable to us, being 21st century American women, what pain, suffering and humiliation women of different cultures and different eras have been forced to endure. Again, we spoke about how fortunate we are to have been born at this time and in this country with all the freedom and choices we have. Being mothers ourselves now, we all tend to relate from the parents' perspective and a lot of these novels really show how little some people think of raising another human being. We are all on the same page with feeling that raising our children is the most important thing we will do in our lifetime. I know that in some of the situations we read about that it is a cultural thing, like foot binding. It is what their mothers did to them, and it's just how it is. But with others, I just wonder if they really love their children. Anyway, it was a compelling story that went through the lives of these two women and how their relationship, the good, the bad and the ugly, spans a lifetime.

We had fun discussing this book and most of us a least made it through some of the book. We talked about what all of our kids were going to be for Halloween, which is this week. It was another good night, and we all had leftovers to take home ;o) !!! Of note, I didn't finish the book until a few days later and it was while I was waiting to vote in the 2008 presidential election! Barack Obama is the new president of the United States! What an amazing time for our country, the first black president! He has his work cut out for him, but hopefully he can start to make some real changes in the next 4 years.

The Glass Castle - August 2008

The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls

Chosen by: Ryan

Location: Salut on Grand in St. Paul

Carolyn and Christina were unable to make it tonight but we did have 2 new members....Lauren Lakeman and Connor Shea! They were born just 3 days apart. Lauren on July 26 and Connor on July 29th! They are both adorable and healthy. Kelly is adjusting to the two child life really well. For us, Connor has been an easy baby and going from 2 to 3 hasn't been as difficult as going from 1 to 2 in my opinion. So far so good, but they are only a month old...;o)

Only Ryan and I finished the book this time, so we kind of told the story to the rest of the group. It is a memoir of a girl who grew up very poor to very eccentric, nomadic parents. The parents got me so angry with their carelessness and foolish behavior. They seemed to have no regard for their children whatsoever. The kids pretty much raised themselves and it broke my heart. The dad was an alcoholic and the mother mentally ill, yes, but come on. They showed no responsibility for those kids. Quite a depressing story. It amazes me how some children, who grow up in horrible situations, can come out as strong, smart, loving and productive members of society, when other kids, who have it all, turn out as monsters.

The food was really good, and a glass of wine tasted quite nice. Another fun night with the girls.

Mansfield Park - June 2008

Mansfield Park by Jane Austen

Chosen by: Kelly

Location: Kerry's house in West St. Paul

Since the weather has been so nice, Kerry offered to have the meeting at her place by the pool. It was a gorgeous summer night.

No one actually finished the book....oops. The few of us who did attempt it just couldn't do it. We are literary failures. I think I may have gotten the furthest, which was only a few chapters. Carolyn gave it a good shot too. If you are not used to or conditioned to reading 17th century literature, it is quite a difficult feat. All the names got confusing because they usually use last names and there were several "Miss Bertrams". It was hard to know which "Miss Bertram" they were talking about and the story got all jumbled. We are all moms of young kids, or pregnant too, so the last thing we want to do at night is make our brains hurt while reading for entertainment. Pre-kids, I could have finished it and I'm sure I would think it a masterpiece like the rest of the scholars, but it's not happening right now.

It was Rachel Pierce's first appearance and she is a cutey!! She looks a lot like Jamie. Christina is glowing as a new mom and it's great to see her so happy. She's a natural.

Kelly and I are due soon and are both tired of the heat and just plain tired. The next meeting will have 2 new members: a new BABY BOY Shea and a new baby ? Lakeman (they are not finding out the sex.) I will be a mommy of 3...let the craziness begin!

The meeting was fun and it went a bit late. Kelly and I stayed until about 11ish chatting about pregnancy and motherhood etc, keeping poor Kerry up who had just worked the past night.

The Power of One - March 10th 2008 - Italian Gourmet Night!!

The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay

Chosen by: Kelly

Location: Jessica's in Rogers

The book was amazing and one of the better books I have ever read. Those of us who read it, really enjoyed it too. I can't believe I had never read it before, I'm glad Kelly chose it. It was difficult to read at times as it is about a boy, Peekey, living in South Africa during WWII and under Apartheid. It begin when he is just 5 years old and is being sent off to boarding school among the Boers. He is ridiculed and tortured as he is the only English kid among Afrikaners who are on the Nazi side. One of the saddest parts is the loss of Grandpa Chook, his pet chicken. It breaks his heart. He story of surviving that school, the people he meets while away from the school, and his obsession with boxing make this a compelling, sad, and joyous book all at the same time.

Tonight was Italian Gourmet night! Kerry hired a chef to come and cook for us while teaching us a bit about Italian cooking. We made noodles from scratch which, although time consuming, is quite simple. Eggs, water and Semolina mixed and kneaded until smooth. Then you just roll and cut the dough with a paste maker. We had a lot of fun doing it and each got turns doing all the jobs. Antonio was the chef's name and he was great! Some of us bought his cook book that he writes for Betty Crocker. Impressive. For appetizers we had shrimp scampi w/ basil and prosciutto and bruschetta (we learned is pronounced "broosh ketta", saying it the way it looks means "little witch" in Italian;o) We also had spinach salad with a fresh herb dressing that Michelle helped make, fettuccini (which we made) with two sauces: a tomato olive sauce and a creamy veggie sauce, homemade buns and sea bass w/ tarragon mustard sauce. Dessert was berries over mango sherbet, or "mirtilli al sorbetto". We ate at Jessica's very fancy table setting (matching china, cloth napkins, crystal glasses and all) and stayed late discussing the book and catching up. Cody was there later showing us all of his Star Wars stuff, which is what he is into right now. His speech is getting so clear and he is growing up so fast. He's almost 5! My sister in law Julie also joined us tonight as we needed an extra person for the cooking party (Ryan was not here as she is in Mexico right now). Julie fits in anywhere and was fun to have there. It was a great night!

Christina is due at the end of the month and she told us that they plan on naming her Rachel. Sweet. Kelly and I are 19 and 20 weeks, respectively. Half way there! I, of course am already carrying a basketball under my clothes and Kelly just looks like she ate a big dinner. She's very cute pregnant.

The Thirteenth Tale - January 2008

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield

Chosen by: Shelley

Location: Shelley's in Roseville

This meeting was also Christina's baby shower. I made black bean lasagne, and the rest of the girls brought sides. After we ate, we discussed the book.

I hadn't read a scary book in awhile, and although this wasn't a "scary slasher book", it was a kind of ghost story and got my pulse going a few times while reading in the dark, in the middle of the night. It is set in England as has a good old fashioned gothic, haunting, love story feel, much like Wuthering Heights, which I love. The two main characters are Vida, England's most famous writer, and a plain, young biographer, Margaret. Vida is reclusive and is nearing the end of her life, so she wants her life story to be told, on her terms. She chooses Margaret to write her biography. Margaret struggles with whether it is true or not. The story that unravels before her, past and present, is suspenseful and haunting. Those of us who read it seemed to enjoy it. A bit slow at times, it proves to keep the pages turning toward the ending.

After the discussion, we had Christina open her gifts and had cake. The cake was from Wuollet's and they did a great job of putting a cute little baby and a blanket on the top. You never go wrong when you go Wuollet's. She found out that she is having a baby girl! Yeah! She is also decorating the baby's room in classic children's books, as she has been collecting them for quite some time. We all loved that idea and gave a big "Awww". Nothing else really new. Kelly and I are still pregnant and feeling pretty good getting out of that first trimester. I recently got back from Hawaii for Molly, my sister in law's graduation from nursing school. I was a blast and I did try surfing, but when I fell off the board and it hit me in the side, I figured it was probably not a great idea being with child and all ;o)

5th Annual Limo Tour - December 13th 2007

No book picked this time, just a fun outing!

We met this evening at the Beauty Lounge on Grand Ave. - upstairs from Tavern on Grand. Kerry is a frequent flier of this boutique. Since it is only open a few times a month, Kerry asked it she would open just for us tonight. Wala!! We shopped for jewelry, scarves, hats and all walked out a little lighter in the wallet. Christina was unable to make it tonight and Angie has now moved to Wabasha to be with her boyfriend, Bucky. She is sad to not be able to be with us anymore, but a girl in love's gotta do what she's gotta do. She is planning to rent her house in St. Paul instead of sell it right now, just in case. She got a job in Winona. I wish her all the happiness in the world, but I'm really going to miss having my best friend close by. Everyone else was there tonight. After shopping, we headed down to Tavern on Grand for some drinks and apps before the limo tour.

New: Kelly and I are both pregnant! Kelly with #2 and me with #3, both due at the end of July. Very exciting. Christina, still doing well and still due at the end of March with #1.

On to the limo. It was a nice ride, stopping again for pictures at the Santa Lane in Inver Grove Heights.

After the limo, we tried to go for coffee, but Caribou was closed--so we went back to the Tavern and some of us stayed for another drink. Kerry and Ryan had the most "fun" that night, but the token drunk award goes to Ryan this year. She tried to stay overnight at Kerry's but couldn't go to sleep, feeling like she needed to be home. So Randy drove her home to Burnsville. Silly Ryan. It was a lot of fun, even sober ;o)

Midwives - November 2007

Midwives by Chris Bohjalian

Chosen by: Carolyn

Location: We met at Carolyn's newly built house in New Prague.

Since it was so far away, we carpooled. Ryan, Kerry, Christina and I piled into "Silver Thunder" the minivan and headed on down. There was another new addition with us in the van...Rory Johanna who was born in October. She just a few weeks old and has a full head of dark hair. Cute cute cute. Christina is now expecting her first baby in March!! How exciting for her and Jamie. We, of course, had no trouble bombarding poor Christina with all of our baby advice. Kelly, Michelle and Angie were unable to make it tonight.

The house is beautiful and the woodwork is gorgeous! They are pretty much in the country down there with just a few neighbors in the development. She still works at Abbott NW but took a casual position at St. Francis for the proximity to her new house.

This is a very interesting page turner, especially with our backgrounds in the healthcare field and our experiences delivering our own babies. There was a lot of lively discussion as this was a controversial story with ethical dilemmas. The story centers around a midwife, Sybil. There is a big snow storm, a mother in labor, and a decision what to do about the living fetus when the mother dies.... The controversy lies in whether the mother was dead when she took the baby via C-section or not. Sybil is charged with manslaughter and on the story goes....

The Education of LIttle Tree - September 2007

The Education of Little Tree by Forrest Carter

Chosen by: Angie

Location: The Muddy Pig - St. Paul

The Muddy Pig is a neighborhood joint and Matt and I love coming here. They have great food and an extensive beer list.

Angie didn't want to discuss the book, she said she just wanted to spend our time catching up and chatting. She is still in a relationship with Bucky, who has been in the woods for 40 days and is coming home soon. She recently got a letter from him that she was very excited about. It's great to see her happy and excited and dare i say...In love??

After we'd been there awhile, my brother Corey and his friend Eddie (I just love Eddie) showed up. Eddie is in from Colorado, leaving soon for Ecuador with his wife, to work in a clinic as their doctor. It was a fun surprise and since Corey knows all the girls, they sat down and hung out with us for a drink.

This book is a memior about an orphaned boy in Tennessee who is adopted by his Cherokee grandparents. It's a coming of age story about the boy learning the ways of his ancestors, learning to hunt and survive in the wilderness, and how to respect and be one with nature. It was an enjoyable read and gives insight to the culture of the Native Americans.

Of interest is that the author was a racist, segregationist member of the KKK. The book does not at all reflect a racist state of mind, and it is hard to believe someone with that crude of a past could write such a culturally sensitive book. Hmm. Maybe he broke with his evil ways and decided to become a sensitive writer, or maybe he was in it for money? Who knows? The author died in a bar fight in 1979 in Texas and died of his injuries before his past became public knowledge. So, we will never know the back story. But, a good book is a good book and I'm glad I read it.

Water for Elephants - June 2007

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen

Chosen by: Kerry

Location: Dixie's on Grand in St. Paul

Everyone was able to make it tonight! Kerry also brought her sister, Kate, who is staying with them for the summer. We had two other book club debuts!! Ryan brought her new little member, Corbynn Elizabeth who has a crazy head of long blondish hair with red tips! Adorable! Carolyn also brought her new bundle, Tessa Ann who also has blond blond hair! Both babies are healthy and doing well and the mommies look great! I was a bit late because a tree fell on my house today. While I was feeding the kids dinner I heard a whoosh and the front windows were a blur of green. Whoops. Matt was cutting the tree away from the house and I left the girls with our neighbor lady and they all just sat and watched. We talked a lot about politics, Paris Hilton, global warming and whatever other current events there were. It was so fun!

This book was outstanding! I loved it from the first sentence to the last! It was a common theme, we all thought it was great. It is definitely at the top of my list and may be my favorite book club book thus far. It was something I normally wouldn't pick up, but so glad I did. It was centered around a traveling circus in the 1940's and about one man's experience with the performers, a lady love, and the animals....namely, an lovely elephant named Rosie. The book begins as this man is living out his days in a nursing home, lonely and depressed. The story is told through his flashbacks and the ending is one of my favorite endings ever, the other girls concur. I am normally hard on endings, because I except a lot and I rush through them, but with this one, I read slowly and deliberately. I didn't want it to end, but I was very happy with the outcome. Thanks Kerry for the great choice!!

Love Walked In - April 2007

Love Walked In by Maria de Los Santos

Chosen: Michelle

Location: Wildfire in Eden Prairie

This book was an easy read that most of us finished. A girl meets boy - boy has daughter - daughter hates dad - daughter loves girl - daughter abandoned by mom secondary to mom's mental illness...and so on. It was entertaining and would be good up on the big screen.

Ryan and Carolyn are about to have their babies #2 (both girls) anytime now!!! Exciting! Lots of estrogen coming into our little club. 4 boys and 6 girls so far ;o )

Kerry announced tonight that she is also expecting baby numero dos! Always someone pregnant to pass the PG torch onto. She's due in the fall.

Dinner was excellent and everyone made it tonight! We pitched in and got Target gift cards for Carolyn and Ryan. Good luck w/ labor girls! Next time we meet we will have two new ladies with us!

The Birth of Venus - February 2007

The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant

Chosen by: Christina

Location: Christina's house in St. Paul

It was a very snowy night and I brought Lucy with me. Norah was traveling down to Owatonna with Matt to go to his grandpa Joe's Sacrament of the Sick, as he is dying. It was so snowy that they had to turn around and come back. Matt felt real bad that they couldn't make it to see him.

Anyway, Lucy is 8 months old and fairly new to sitting, so she spent her time weeble wobbling on the ground while we chatted and ate. She's a pretty easy baby.

Christina made Italian style meatballs...yum!

This historical fiction novel is set in 15th century Florence. The city's history is mixed with a coming of age story about a 15 year old free-spirited girl. There is art, love, mystery, and the author really paints a picture of what life was like at that time. All of us have said time and again, that we love to read historical fiction; learning something while being entertained with a story. Good book choice.

It's About Your Husband - December 2006 - The Almost Annual Holiday Limo Tour

It's About Your Husband by Lauren Lipton

Chosen by: Ryan

Location: Saji Ya on Grand Ave. in St. Paul

We all had a nice dinner at Saji Ya. Although sushi isn't for everyone, we all got full on some kind of yummy food, whether it was fish or not.

This book is a romantic comedy type book set in NYC. A woman going through a divorce, moves there and starts spying on a friend's husband to see if he's a cheater. It reminded me a little of Bridget Jones's Diary because the main character always is getting into odd situations and is kind of quirky. It was a quick, hard to put down read. A great beach read.

So, we're getting near the time when the limo is supposed to pick us up when Ryan starts wondering why they have not called to say they are on their way. She went outside to wait for them....no limo. She called them and....the limo wasn't going to be coming. They lost her reservation!! Ugh! They tried to scrounge and find a limo for us...it didn't happen. On the bright side, we get a free limo ride next year. On the dark side, we were all dressed up with no place to go. Well, what next? We decided to walk down to Caribou Coffee and get some warm caffeine to drown our sorrows in. Little did we know, Kerry had a bottle of peppermint schnapps in her bag. Sneaky sneaky. Well, what else was there to do? We got our coffees, sat down in Caribou, and brown bagged it, taking nips of liquor and pouring it into our cups. It was a pretty funny sight. Nine grown women acting like underage drinkers sneaking booze in a brightly lit coffee shop. Hee Hee. We actually got chummy w/ the staff and closed the place up. I think they may have stayed open later than they are supposed to because of us. Then we tried to go into Dixie's for another drink. No luck, they were closing too. So, off we went for home. Although there was no gawdy lights and no token drunk bookclubber, it was still a good night with friends.

The Mermaid Chair - November 6th 2006

The Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kidd

Chosen by: Kelly Lakeman

Location: Joe's Crab Shack - Roseville

We met at Joe's since it was a seafood restaurant. We were all there except Jessica, who is in Vegas with Cody visiting her parents. The pregnant girls, Ryan and Carolyn, are doing well and looking great! Carolyn recently moved into her newly built house in New Prague.

This was a quick read about a middle woman who finds herself unhappy and lost. She goes to her childhood home to help care for her sick mother and to escape from her marriage. She meets a reluctant monk-to-be and has a passionate affair which helps her rediscover herself. We all liked it well enough but I personally got a bit bored toward the end.

My Memory's Keeper - September 26th 2006

My Memory's Keeper by Kim Edwards

Chosen by: Jessica T.

Location: Ike's in downtown Minneapolis

Ike's is a hip little joint with yummy burgers and interesting appetizers right downtown, so it's always a busy, fun atmosphere. Angie, Kerry, Carolyn, Christina, Jessica, Ryan were all there. Michelle is on her way to Paris and Kelly had to work (she is also a nurse).

The lastest news is that Ryan AND Carolyn are both expecting their second babies. Ryan is due April 30th and Carolyn is due April 5th. They are both real tired but feeling well overall. Jessica just returned from a cruise and was all tan and fabulous. Angie is now dating Bucky F., and old family friend. They are in the fun, new stages of the relationship. I think they are a great match!

This book was a good story. A husband who delivers his own twins (he is an MD) and gives one away to the nurse because she has Down's syndrome. Ethically, of course, it raises big questions and a good discussion. Some of us weren't as impressed with it as others, but it did make you evaluate your own values and emotions. You have to lie in the bed you make.

We ended the night with a chocolate cake in celebration of Angie's 34th birthday! (9/16)

Book Club Family Pool Party at the Appleton's - August 2006

Kerry and Randy kindly hosted a family pool party on a hot and sunny August day. It was a really good time. Carolyn, Brian and Kai...Michelle, Jason and Zach...Jessica and Cody....Matt, Norah, Lucy and I joined Randy, Kerry and Ava for some splashing, sun and munchies. Norah loved the water and Matt spent the day with Lucy in the sling, drinking a few beers and talking the talk at the table. Thanks for the good time Appletons!

Marley and Me - August 15th 2006

Marley and Me by John Grogan

Chosen by: Shelley

Location: Shelley's house in Roseville

Our newest member, Lucy MaryRuth Shea was at her first meeting tonight! She was born July 20th and is amazing. A two kid life isn't as hard as I thought it would be once the initial shock wore off and I just adjusted to the fact that I will never be able to relax again. Just kidding (kind of ) So far so good and Matt was able to take a month off to be with us so were are lucky. The downside is that my favorite woman in the world, my Gramma Ruth, died 3 days after Lucy was born of a massive stroke. It's been exhausting emotionally on my family, especially my mom. She will be missed.

We have another new member tonight: Kelly Lakeman. She brought puppy chow ;o) She is a friend of Kerry's that Ryan and I have also gotten to know through Storytime at the Red Balloon bookshop. Welcome Kelly!

Matt grilled pork tenderloin for us and everyone else brought sides. We sat out on the deck since it was a gorgeous August night. Norah was also there and she made everyone look in wonder at her flag on the swingset. She is passionate about her American flag (and exit signs and stop signs).

Marley and Me is a hysterical account of a man and his crazy yellow lab. It makes you laugh, it makes you cry and whether you have ever been a dog owner or not, he does a great job of describing life with these four legged friends for life. It sparked a lot of conversation about our experiences with our pets. It seems all pets have some quirk or another - we laughed a lot tonight.

Angie wasn't there tonight because she is studying for her test, and Carolyn is closing on her new house in New Prague.

The Time Traveler's Wife - June 28th 2006

The Time Travelers Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Chosen by: Carolyn

Location: The Red Stone and then Let's Dish in Eden Prairie

We were all there tonight except Angie. She is studying for her LICSW exam.

Dinner was really wonderful - we all got salads. Kerry had a bit too much wine and was a very happy and chatty gal tonight. I'm still pregnant but almost done. One month to go.

The book was excellent and I think all of us really liked it. This is a love story between a man with some genetic disorder that makes him time travel and a woman who meets him as a girl and grows up into an artist, loving him all the while. It was unique and complex and hard to keep things straight. Although depressing and emotional, it was inspiring and beautiful as well.

Let's Dish was a great experience! I made 5 meals, splitting them in 1/2 to store. All the girls gave me some food as well, for a baby gift. How thoughtful and perfect for someone going into a 2 child life. Who is going to have time to cook? Matt and I now have a freezer full of gourmet, ready to cook dishes! I will definitely do Let's Dish again.

Some of us went for coffee at the neighboring Starbuck's afterward to chat and solve the world's problems as usual. Good friends are good to have.

Wicked - April 2006

Wicked by Gregory Maguire

Chosen by: Angie

Location: Angie's house in St. Paul

We met at Angie's house. I can't remember what we ate, but I do know that she had a real yummy cake which had the Wicked logo from the playbill on top. Too pretty to eat, but we managed.

This is the exciting and far out "revisionist look at the land and characters of Oz." It is the first in a series and has been made into a Broadway musical, which is coming here soon. We are going to try and go as a group if we can get our hands on some tickets. For those of us that loved the Wizard of Oz, this was so fun to read. To see another, compassionate and human (kind of ) side of the Wicked Witch, or Elphaba, was fascinating. She is just misunderstood ;o)

I am due in a couple months and we know that we are having another GIRL!! Never having a sister myself, I love the idea of sisters! I guess we will be a house of princesses, tutus and drama! No one else is pregnant....that I know of ;o)

Memoirs of a Geisha - February 2006

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

Chosen by: Kerry

Location: Tiger Sushi at the Mall of America

We met at the MOA for sushi as this was set in Japan. We then went to see the movie version after dinner since it came out in theaters as Kerry picked the book. Fun!

This is a fictional story of the life of a geisha working in Kyoto, Japan, before and after WWII. It is a very complicated and sad life. As a geisha, you are gorgeous, and all men want you, but you are kind of a kept woman. In America it would be considered as a call girl. But, in the book, the character says that rich American women call her a prostitute - she says that they themselves are glorified kept women of rich husbands. Food for thought. I think one of the most interesting things about this novel is that a man wrote it. He did a great job of thinking like a woman, a Japanese woman no less. All of us who finished it, loved it.

The movie, of course not a good as the book, was breathtaking. The scenery, the costumes, the make-up, all gorgeous. There is a dance scene in it that still gives me goosebumps just thinking of it. A good night it was.

At First Sight - December 12th 2005 - 4th Annual Limo Light Tour

At First Sight by Nicholas Sparks

Chosen by: Michelle

Location: The Happy Gnome

This restaurant was formally Chang O'Hara's. It is now much nicer and less smoky, and the food is still good. The limo was picking us up here after we had some dinner.

This book is a love story told as only Nicholas Sparks can tell it. It was a bit sappy, predictable, with lots of drama and it of course evoked some tears, but it keeps you reading and it's quick. Quick reads are great for this busy time of year. The ending is sad, but aren't all his books?

I announced tonight that I am pregnant with baby Shea #2 and due in July! Yeah! Matt and I are very excited. It isn't the easiest feat for us to get pregnant, so I feel doubly blessed! So only sparkling cider for me tonight.

We all had a great time, especially Jessica T. who got a bit tipsy with that wine we decided to bring. She was the token drunk of the limo tour this year. Since I was sober, I wrote down some quotes from Jess that night. "Pick the wine dammit!" I believe we were in the limo trying to decide which bottle to open, or at dinner trying to select off the menu. I can't quite recall. "What kind of president are you??" This was directed at me, and I forget the reference, but we were all LOLing as she was pretty out of character and sassy that night. This year we toured through the Edina area and the decorations are all so classy and beautiful. Those homes are enough for a tour with or without lights. Christina and I sat and had coffee with Jess after everyone else left. She wasn't quite ready for behind the wheel stuff yet. But our conversation got real deep and very interesting. We closed the place up and drank them out of coffee ;o)

Empress Orchid - October 2005

Empress Orchid by Anchee Min

Chosen by: Christina

Location: The Big Bowl, Rosedale Mall

Since this book was set in China, Christina thought it fitting to eat at a Chinese restaurant. Ryan, Jessica T., Michelle, Carolyn, Christina, Angie, myself and Kerry and Ava Appleton were there! Ava was born on Sept. 2nd and is happy and healthy! This is her first meeting.

Well, those of us who finished the book all loved it! It's historical fiction based loosely on the life of Empress Orchid. The struggles of a Chinese woman at that time and what a girl had to endure to be a "wife" of the Emperor is unfathomable. A poor girl, Yehonala from a rural village, auditions to be a royal concubine and ends up being the fourth wife of the Emperor, giving birth to "the last emperor" and rules China for 40 some years as a regent. She has to deal with a disapproving public, six other wives, thousands of concubines, and 2,000 conniving eunichs in the 19th century Forbidden City. A very lonely life. Empress Orchid was a strong woman, sexually ambitious, and intelligent, who tested the boundaries of a wife in her position. She is an inspiration. Christina also brought an actual picture of Orchid, which was pretty cool to put a face with the story. I will definitely recommend this one.

The Center of Everything - August 2005

The Center of Everything by Laura Moriarty

Chosen by: Ryan

Location: Kerry's house in West St. Paul

We met at Kerry's house tonight, out on her pool patio. The reason we did it here was because since she is due soon, we wanted to give her a little shower and thought it might be easier for her not to have to haul the gifts back home. Oh, and did I mention she has a pool? Nice summer night, friends, wine, sitting by the pool just tops it off ;o) We did a group gift and since she knows she's having a girl (Ava?), it's pretty easy to shop. Ryan, myself, Jessica P, Christina, Kerry and Carolyn were there.

We talked about the book over appetizers. Randy was nice enough to grill kabobs for us. This is a coming of age novel about a 10 year old girl faced with several life challenges, including having a single mom on welfare, no dad, and a disabled little brother whose dad is also not around. It took us back to our childhoods as well and made us a bit anxious about our own children's adolescence to come. Parenting is such a challenging job, yet the most important and incredible thing I've personally every experience (and Norah's only 15 months old!)

It was a good night. After we ate, we drank wine and lemonade. Dessert was ice cream and cake. Kerry opened her gifts and we chatted until about 10 and said goodnight. The next time we meet there will be a new member.....Baby Appleton!

Running with Scissors - June 2005

Running with Scissors by Augustine Burrows

Chosen by: Jessica T.

Location: Jessica's house in Rogers

The Thons have just finished their new basement, so we hung out, ate and played with Cody down there. It is a great room, complete w/ bar, pool table and giant TV. Angie, Kerry, Ryan, Christina, Carolyn, Shelley and Jessica T. were there tonight. Cody is quite the charming 2 1/2 year old. He's into hide and seek and spying right now. He had some homemade binoculars that he was using to sneak up on people. Too cute.

This book is autobiographical, and man, did this guy have a dysfunctional childhood. Some of the scenes were so unbelievable it's hard to imagine that they really happened (ie. the poop prophecies). We decided that by the end, we were all a bit tired of bible dips, crazy psychiatrists, and inappropriate relationships. It was a trip to read it though. It made me feel quite ordinary, but that is a good thing considering this man's life. The movie version of the book is coming out soon - maybe that will be a book club field trip?

The Confessions of Max Tivoli - May 2005

The Confessions of Max Tivoli by Andrew Sean Greer

Chosen by: Jessica P.

Location: Jessica P.'s new apartment.

Jessica recently moved in with Joep H. from the Netherlands. They are a very cute and happy couple - - getting serious???

Michelle, Kerry and Jessica T. were unable to come. But, it was Maci Bille's first book club! She was born March 31st and is beautiful! Ryan looks great and is a very natural and calm mommy. Kerry, due in Sept. is having a girl!! No other baby news at this point.

We had lasagne a la Joep, wine and lots of dessert. Yum!

This book is a tale about Max, who is born looking like a 70 year old man and grows younger over time. So, when his body appears to be in it's 50's, his mind is that of a 12 year old boy. It was very interesting to think about what it would be like to have the young mind when you appear old and the wise, mature mind when you appear young. He also meets Alice and falls in love with her somewhere in the middle of his life, but they are aging in different directions, so it is a tragic love story. We all liked the book and decided that Max is kind of creepy and very deceptive. Alice was also quite self-involved, so maybe they did belong together. The story was well written and had a clever ending where the credits lead you to believe that Max did really write these memoirs and that they were found in an attic in 947. It made us think twice. Sneaky sneaky Mr. Greer. Sneaky sneaky.

The Kite Runner - March 21st 2005 and Ryan's Baby Shower

The Kite Runner by Khalid Hosseini

Chosen by: Shelley

Location: Shelley's House

All ten of us attended tonight! Ryan is due next month, so we decided to give her a little shower along w/ our meeting tonight. Updates: Jennifer is now married and Jessica P is moving in with her boyfriend Joep on Wednesday! Kerry is 16 weeks pregnant and is not quite showing yet. Cody is almost 2! Norah is 10 months old and is crawling everywhere. Christina's surgery went well. Michelle is loving the farm and Zach is 2 1/2. Angie has a family, the Toths, living with her while they search for a house. Interesting times for her as Mike is Matt's best friend. Kai is 14 months old.

We discussed the book first. It was extremely emotional and difficult to turn the pages at times, bringing me to tears on more than one occasion, but I really liked it, as did most of us. The main character, Amir is the epitomy of selfish and his counterpart and childhood best friend, Hassan, was the epitomy of selfless. It is set in Afghanistan and spans about 40 years of personal and political turmoil. The author really paints a bleak picture of the country and how devastated it is, and has been for so long. We are just so fortunate to have what we do in our safe, quiet little book club.

For Ryan's shower, we had Irish stew (my first attempt and it wasn't the greatest), soda bread and lots of appetizers. Woullet's lemon souffle cake and ice cream for dessert! (Ryan doesn't like chocolate, but I'm down with the lemon souffle any day of the week!) It was a fun night, it's nice when we all can make it.

Shadow Divers - February 1st, 2005

Shadow Divers by Robert Kurson

Chosen by: Carolyn

Location: Carolyn's house in Apple Valley

We had a good turn out tonight and most of us actually finished this book! Angie, Carolyn, Christina, Kerry, Ryan, Jessica T. were all in attendence. Carolyn's son Kai is 13 months old and is walking all over. Brian and Carolyn have worked things out and it's going well, which makes life with a toddler much easier. I'm happy for them. Ryan is expecting in just 2 short months. She is feeling good and looks great! They are not finding out what the sex is. Kerry is now also pregnant and due in September which makes her about 12 weeks now. Our group is really beginning to expand!! Cody is doing very well and is coming up on his year anniversary of his liver transplant! Can't believe it's been a year. Christina needs to have surgery - thyroidectomy. We of course wish for a speedy recovery for her. Angie and Matt's divorce is final now. I hurt for her but she is healing and doing alright. Her dogs, Gypsy and Atlas keep her busy.

From the first few pages of this book, I knew I would be disappointed when it was over. This is a true account of "wreck divers" John Chatterton and Richard Kohler and the mystery of a certain German submarine off the coast of New Jersey, sunk in WWII. From the gripping accounts of the dangers of deep sea and wreck diving, to the personal stories of the German soldiers aboard the sub, this is an amazing tale. The author does a great job sucking you in, if it was fiction it wouldn't be any better. It is fascinating, this "hobby" these guys partake in. The suspense of finding out how they ID the wreck is what really made this such a page turner. There was a lot to discuss in and around this book and it was fun to talk about since most of us had read it. There is a TV show on the History channel called "Deep Sea Divers" and Chatterton and Kohler are in it. I have only watched it once, and it wasn't quite as intriguing as the story in the book, but intriguing all the same. Thanks Carolyn for a great read. I will definitely be recommending this one and cheers to Chatterton and Kohler and all who ever stepped foot onto the Seeker!

The Feast of Love - December 2001 - First Annual Limo Light Tour

The Feast of Love by Charles Baxter

Chosen by: Ryan

Location: Sweeney's in St. Paul

We met at Sweeney's to kick off our first Limo Light Tour. Michelle, Carolyn Jessica, Ryan and Shelley were there. After some appetizers and book discussion, we had a limo pick us up in the parking lot. Then we were off to see the lights around town. We toured St. Paul, and then the driver took us over to the Inver Grove Heights area where they do some serious decorating! Complete with Tasmanian devils, Santa helicopters, and Goodwill drops boxes with real live Santas manning them. Ryan and I had a bit too much to drink. We had a blast jumping in and out of the limo at various gawdy houses taking pictures of us surrounded by the holiday decor. We even staged a picture of us falling out of the limo laying on the ground w/ wine bottles around us. Pre-kid days! It was quite a success and we will definitely do it again!

The book was interesting and would make a good chick flick movie. There are lots of characters, and their individual stories merge at the end with them all knowing one another. It was decent but I struggled a bit to finish it. We didn't dicuss it much, we were too busy drinking wine ;o)

If the Buddha Married - December 15th 2004 - 3rd Annual Limo Tour

If the Buddha Married by Charlotte Kasl

Chosen by: Angie

Location: Pad Thai on Grand Ave. in St. Paul

At our last meeting, Angie gave us the title for this book, and little gift bags to aid us in reading this self exploring book. Inside was a candle, incense, tea, and a chinese magnet. Everyone got a different symbol.

Shelley: insight

Kerry: compassion

Jennifer: respect

Jessica T.: patience

Carolyn: courage

Christina: play

Ryan: forgiveness

I don't know what Michelle and Jessica P got :o*

As we read the book, we are to consider our "word" and try to find ways to apply it to our lives and relationships to better ourselves, be present and zen like.

So, then we met at Pad Thai and everyone came to dinner! We had good conversation and went around the table and independently discussed our "words". Everyone really seemed to have taken Angie's task to heart and done some soul searching and looking inward in search of ways to better our lives and relationships. Good idea Ang!

Next, the annual Holiday limo light tour. All of us came except Jessica P and Jennifer. Jen gets married in a few days in Belgium to Karl! Bonvoyage Jen! The limo was a lot of fun. We brought wine and there was the typical complimentary cider and cookies. We cruised around Crocus Hill, Summit Ave, and then over to Inver Grove Heights where the real lights are - gawdy and terrible, but festive and funny all the same. We jumped out and snapped a few pics on the front of people's lawns. We all lined up on someone's steps as our driver commemorated the moment with Kodak ;o) Good friends, good conversation, Christmas music and a little wine - what more does a girl need?

The Big House - November 2004

The Big House by George Howe Colt

Chosen by: Kerry

Location: Kerry's house in West St. Paul

Kerry's new house is adorable! It is all brick and has a pool in the backyard. It's like a little resort. She made butternut squash soup (Kerry), spinach salad (Christina) and desserts. I brought wine and had too much of it ;o) We left all the kids home so it was kind of fun to be with just the grown ups for the night. I was the only one to finish the book. It was a historical account of the last century in the American WASP summerhome. A slow, dry read. Kerry selected it because she has been going to the same summerhome on the Jersey shore w/ her family since she was born and has so many warm and fond memories of that place. She thought this book about encompass some of that, but it wasn't really that great. Kerry's stories are better ;o)

Attended: Shelley, Angie, Kerry, Ryan, Carolyn, Christina, Jessica T., and Jennifer. Ryan is really started to show and is feeling well. Jennifer gets married next month. Cody is one and a half already and doing great! Norah is almost 6 months old and sitting, laughing and is absolutely beautiful to her daddy and I. Angie is dealing with so much, the divorce, the house, the doubt. I wish I could make it better. It's a helpless feeling to see someone you love hurting like this.

The Summer Before the Dark - Sept. 2004

The Summer Before the Dark by Doris Lessing

Chosen by: Jennifer

Location: Jennifer's house in downtown St. Paul

Matt and I brought Norah for her first bookclub tonight to meet everyone. Matt took her home after a few minutes and I hitched a ride with Kerry. Norah is 3 months old and is the light of our lives. We are so very lucky and ecstatic to have her. Ryan is pregnant again and due in April! Yeah! Jennifer is getting married to Karl in December and preparing for the wedding in Brugge Belgium. What fun! All were able to attend except Michelle and Angie.

No one finished the book so we just talked about all of the books we'd read over the summer since we'd taken the whole summer off. It's nice to get together again.

The DaVinci Code - April 2004

The DaVinci Code by Dan Brown

Chosen by: Michelle

Location: Michelle's Farm in Morristown

The Farm is in Morristown, one and a half hours south of the Twin Cities. Michelle, Jason and college friends Randy and Shawn share this big old farmhouse and have started an organic chicken farm. Quite a change from city living, but they are all very excited about this move. Tonight was the first time we've seen the place. Very homey and full of life. Zack is getting so big - he's 18 months old already. He's a perfect mix of Jason and Michelle.

Of course this book stimulated much conversation that could go on and on. It is one of the bestselling books ever. Almost everyone I know has read it. It is a thriller. A detective mystery based on 2,000 years of history. I can't imagine the research that the author had to do to get the information needed to write this book. Our group, though all Christian, has some diverse backgrounds when it comes to religion, which made for some good debates. It was a good night.

I am due in a month and am huge! Kerry and Randy are buying a house in West St. Paul next month and are in the process of packing. Angie and Matt are getting a divorce. She's doing alright, but it is more difficult than I'll ever know. Angie is strong, stronger than she knows. She will be fine. Carolyn and Brian are back together, living in the Apple Valley house. They are doing well so far. Good for them if they can make it work.

Bel Canto - March 2004

Bel Canto by Anne Patchett

Chosen by: Christina

Location: Christina's house in St. Paul

Not everyone finished this book, but those of us who did, really enjoyed it. Set in South America at a fancy dinner party where a famous American opera singer is the musical entertainment, there is a terrorist attack and a hostage crisis. The character development was extraordinary and the plot was very suspenseful. There is an unlikely love story and a surprise ending. I definately would recommend it.

Christina made very yummy soup, yeah! Those there were Shelley, Christina, Jennifer, Jessica T., Michelle, Ryan, Kerry, Carolyn and Kai. Cody had his transplant in February! He is doing fabulous and his color is normal now! We couldn't be happier for the Thons!

The Pact - January 2004

The Pact by Jodi Picoult

Chosen by: Ryan

Location: Ryan's house in Burnsville

We had a new member come tonight...Kai Christiansen is here! He is a few weeks old and is cute cute cute! Cody was also there and is cruising all over. He's eating big boy food too. He's about 10 months old and is still doing ok, considering. He has a lot of energy but us not gaining weight and is quite jaundiced. Hopefully his liver comes soon! I think Jessica and Paul have a heart attack every time the phone rings.

This book was quite emotional. It was about a boy and a girl who have known each other all their lives as their parents are best friends and neighbors. They fall in love as teens and the girl has some depression issues she struggles with and is conflicted about her relationship with the boy because she feels it "incestuous" in a way. There is a suicide "pact" that the book is focused around and it really tugs at your heart strings. It was gripping.

Ryan made a fruit pizza and Jessica T. and I nearly ate the entire thing. We decided she should make it every time. Ryan, Jessica T and Cody, Carolyn and Kai, Michelle, Angie and Shelley were all there tonight.

Tales of a Female Nomad - December 2003 - no limo tour

Tales of a Female Nomad by Rita Goldman Gelden

Chosen by: Angie

Location: Angie's house in St. Paul

We decided to skip the limo tour this year. Next year hopefully we'll start it up again.

Angie had a Christmas theme at her house. Everything was red and green, including the ice cream and lots of fun treats. This book was a memoir written by a woman who has been traveling around the world for years after her divorce, and immerses herself into the culture wherever she is. So, Angie had us all pick a country that Rita had traveled to and make a dish from that culture or country. I brought potato latkas from Israel, Ryan brought lettuce wraps from China and Carolyn brought a mexican dip for example.

The woman who wrote the book was an inspiration. She was from a very wealthy, Hollywood type lifestyle and when her husband wanted a divorce, she just up and left and headed to Mexico and lived there for weeks with a family in a small village. Her two grown children were skeptical about her decisions, but supported her. She is a children's book author, so she was able to write from wherever she was and send it back to her publisher. That's how she made her money. She traveled to so many amazing places, and brought them to life, making me want to travel there. You could feel the love she had for these locations and the people who lived there in the way she wrote about them. We all really seemed to enjoy this book and it seemed fitting, considering some of us in our club are having marriage issues and need a strong and independent woman to look to.

Carolyn is due in a few weeks and she and Brian are still separated. I hope things work out for them. I can't imagine starting out motherhood as a single parent. We did a lot of talking about her situation and she is very brave. We are all proud of her.

Angie is also having marriage trouble. Matt is currently not living in the house. It kills me to see her in pain too. We also talked a lot about what she and Matt are going through.

Tonight proved again how priceless girlfriends are. When bookclub began, we were all newlyweds and didn't really have many big issues. Now, after being married for awhile, and having children, the struggles and pain begin. Funny how much difference a few years can make.

I am 5 months pregnant and all is well. We are not going to find out the sex, but I think it's a boy.

Dirty Girls Social Club - November 2003

The Dirty Girls Social Club by Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez

Chosen by: Jessica T.

Location: Jessica T's house in Rogers

This book is a "sex in the city" style story about a group of young women looking for satisfaction in love, life and in their jobs. It's lively, fun and sexy; easy to read. One of those books where you can find similar qualities between yourself and in the characters because each character narrates their own parts.

We all attended except for Jessica P. We got to see Cody for a little bit before he went to bed. He did great through his kasai surgery, healed well and is now listed for a liver transplant. He could go at anytime. Jessica is so strong and is such an amazing advocate for Cody. I know she is struggling on the inside, but you wouldn't know it. She is positive and moving forward, doing what needs to be done. I hope he gets his transplant soon. What a tough little man he is too. He has a personality that doesn't quit. Adorable!

Sadly, Ryan miscarried last month. We are all very hopeful for her that she will be pregnant again soon!

More bad news is that Carolyn and Brian are having problems. They are currently separated. Her pregnancy is going very well and she looks great. But how stressful for her to be going through all of this being as pregnant as she is. It's a BOY by the way :o) She does a good job of staying level-headed and has some good friends and sisters to support her.

Life is crazy sometimes.

The Secret Life of Bees - September 2003

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd

Chosen by: Shelley

Location: Shelley's house in Roseville

We met at my house and it was a gorgeous Indian summer night, so we had it on the deck. We did it pot luck style and had a great turn out. A new member came tonight, my best friend since kindergarten, Angie G. It's about time she joined ;o) She brought her brand new yellow lab puppy Gypsy who is just too darn adorable. We were ALL there tonight so the conversation was great! It was pretty amazing to look around and see all the faces of the women I call my friends, laughing, talking and enjoying the evening. I was happy. I really hope this club continues until we are all old and gray - and then some.

The book was a quick read and most of us finished it.

"The queen, for her part, is the unifying force of the community; if she is removed from the hive, the workers very quickly sense her absence. After a few hours, or even less, they show unmistakable signs of queenlessness."

Set in the the 1960's during the civil rights movement, a 14 year old white girl and her nanny run away from her neglectful and abusive father and find themselves staying with a black family of women, the calendar sisters (May, June and August) in South Carolina. It is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time.

News this month: Ryan is pregnant and due in April! Yeah Ryan!

I am pregnant and due in May!! Finally! I couldn't be more excited.

Carolyn is 5 months along and looks great!

Nine Parts of Desire - July 2003

Nine Parts of Desire - the Hidden World of Islamic Women by Geraldine Brooks

Chosen by: Jessica P.

Location: The Melting Pot in Minneapolis

We met at this fondue restaurant and it was very yummy! Jennifer, Jessica P., and Shelley were there. A smaller group tonight. Oh, and Carolyn is pregnant!!! Due in January...congrats Carolyn!

This book is something every free woman should read to understand just how lucky we are and how much freedom means. Islamic women live so differently it's hard to understand, but reading this book does help give a little insight. The author spent 6 years covering the middle east through wars, upheaval and destruction and this book describes her journey in discovering the ways of the women behind the veils.

The Best American Short Stories 2002 - June 2003

The Best American Short Stories 2002 by Sue Miller

Chosen by: Jennifer

Location: Jennifer's apartment in St. Paul

Those there were Jessica P, Jennifer, Michelle, Shelley, Kerry, and Carolyn

These collections of short stories are put out every year, selected by a guest editor. This year's editor, Sue Miller, chose 20 stories out of the 100 that were given to her. Eight of these stories came from the New Yorker and the others out of various other publications.

Most of us read at least some of the stories. There was some good discussion but not all of us read the same ones, so conversation was a bit limited. It's always fun though just getting everyone's take.

Jessica T. wasn't here tonight and a lot of our discussion centered around Cody Thon. Paul and Jessica received some terrible and worrisome news a few days ago. Cody was diagnosed with biliary atresia and is having surgery soon. He may need a liver transplant. We just can't begin to know what Paul and Jess and Cody are going through - we are hoping and praying for the best possible outcome for our little friend. Jessica is a very strong and brave woman and Cody is a lucky little boy to have her as his mommy. We will of course do our best to be there for them and support them in any way we can.

Girlfriends are priceless.

Slammerkin - April 2003

Slammerkin by Emma Donoghue

Chosen by: Kerry (her first pick)

Location: Kerry's townhome in Blaine

We have another new member tonight: Jessica P, who is another attorney with Matt at Rider Bennett. Also, Cody Thon made his first appearance! He was born March 30th and is adorable of course! We all had our turn at getting our baby fix on. Jessica is such a natural at this whole mom thing.

The book is a historical fiction novel set in the 18th century in London where a 13 year old girl turns to prostitution after her mother throws her out on the street. A Slammerkin is an 18th century term for "loose fitting clothing" or a "loose woman". The author describes the setting and the characters very well and was able to evoke emotions out of me as I was reading it. I felt kind of dirty and depressed as it went on, but I enjoyed the story, despite the sleaze. All of our members tend to really like historical fiction, so this was right up our alley.

People in attendance: Kerry, Jessica P., Jessica T. and Cody, Ryan, Jennifer and Shelley

Shadowbaby - February 2003

Shadowbaby by Alison McGhee

Chosen by: Michelle

Location: Red Fish Blue on Grand Ave. in St. Paul

It was a very snowy night, so our group was a bit smaller. Kerry, Shelley, Carolyn, Jessica and Michelle were all there.

I had the crab cakes and they were stupendous!

This novel is about an eleven year old girl, Cora winter (lower case w) who struggles with unanswered questions about her life: the father she never knew, and the twin sister she once had. She befriends an elderly immigrant who lives in a nearby trailer and he helps her in her search.

The book was a bit slow and kind of a struggle to finish. I believe we all did finish it though.

w

The Lovely Bones - December 2002 - 2nd Annual Limo Tour

The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

Chosen: Jessica T.

Location: Shelley's house

We met at my house in Roseville to discuss the book and eat before the limo arrived. We have another new member, Kerry Appleton, a friend from Children's PICU. Welcome!

The book was emotional, disturbing, beautiful and suspenseful all at the same time. It's about a girl who is murdered and watches over her grieving family and her killer, from heaven; her heaven. I really like the author's idea of heaven. Each person has their own surroundings, the things they deem valuable in their former lives and you can visit other loved ones in their personal heaven, whenever you wish. Albeit lonely, it also seemed soothing. We all enjoyed the book.

After we ate, the limo picked us up and off we went, with our bottles of wine, and our complimentary box of festive, yet slightly stale, Christmas cookies, on another Christmas light tour. We started on Summit Ave. in St. Paul, where the lights are brilliant, classy and pleasing to the eye. Then we were taken to the 'burbs, where the displays swiftly become gawdy and very overdone. It is actually humorous to see what lengths some people will go to in order to out-do each other. "Bubba trying to out-do Bubba", a Jessica T. quote I believe. A great time had by all: listening to the Christmas stations, trying to hear all the conversation going on, trying to not spill wine, and attempting to keep the windows from fogging up without freezing our bums off. Open the window, close the window, open the window, close the window.

Those in attendance: Shelley, Ryan, Jessica (with baby boy in belly), Kerry, Carolyn and Michelle.

The Bluest Eye - November 2002

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

Chosen by: Ryan

Location: La Bodega

We met for tapas, which we love, because everyone gets a little of everything. Wine and good conversation. Another new member joined this evening, Jennifer Wolf, who is an attorney at Matt's firm, Rider Bennett. It's always fun to have new members and new views. Yeah! Ryan, Carolyn, Kerry, Michelle and myself were also there.

This novel is Toni Morrison's first, written in 1970. Set in Ohio post depression era, the story follows the life of an 11 year old black girl named Pecola Breedlove. She and her family have several issues, seriously tragic issues. She is ridiculed, spat upon, made to feel very ugly and pins much value on whiteness. She feels the way she will really be loved is to have the bluest eyes. It was one of those books that was good, but emotionally difficult to read. It's always hard to imagine how monsterous humans can be.

The Red Tent - ? Oct. 2002 ?

The Red Tent by Anita Diamant

Chosen by: Jessica T. or Carolyn

Location: can't remember

This book a first person narrative which tells the story of the biblical character Dinah, found in book of Genesis. The author brings to life the ancient world of shephards, caravans, midwives, royalty and slaves. The woman in those days were shunned into a tent during their menstrual cycle and that was what the "red tent" was. It was described as what we, today, may call a gossip session, or bitch session. Woman, mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, and friends getting together and talking, laughing, crying just being together. Kind of like our book club ;o) Except that we are not all married to the same man...

Enjoyable and we all decided that we would recommend it.

Captain Corelli's Mandolin - September 2002

Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernieres

Chosen by: Shelley

Location: Figlio in Uptown

There has been a LONG break between books. We just all got busy I guess and couldn't get our acts together. We took the summer off. Carolyn is now married! Matt and I attended her wedding and it was perfect and beautiful. Matt, Brian and Care's dad all got a stomach virus the day before the wedding though. All was good by the wedding night and everyone was ready to party. She got married on Kauai, HI at the northern most point of the island, north of Hanalei. It looked like Jurassic Park with all the lush green mountains! The most beautiful place I've ever seen. Michelle had her baby boy Zachary, in August! We saw pictures tonight, what a little doll. He look like a little of both mommy and daddy. Jessica is now PREGNANT too! Due in March.

Not all of us finished the book. It was historical fiction set in Greece during WWII. The main character is a Greek woman living with her father, who is a doctor. Dr. Iannis adores his daughter and teaches her is art of healing. They struggle as the island is occupied by the German/Italian armies. Captain Corelli resides with them and on goes the love story of Captain Corelli and Pelagia. Corelli is a bit reluctant as a Hitler disciple and his most prized possession is his mandolin. The men love when he plays for them. As war goes, there are two sides and love is difficult even when you are on the same one. So, for Corelli and Pelagia, it is an uphill battle, tragic and passionate. I really enjoyed the book, but it did take quite a while to finish. A movie starring Nicholas Cage and Penelope Cruz was made a few years ago, it was OK, but, per usual, it didn't hold a candle to this book.

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down - Feb or Spring 2002?

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman

Chosen by: Jessica

Location: Loring Pasta Bar in Dinkeytown

I can't be sure about when we met. I never wrote anything down for this entry, so I'm guessing it was Feb or spring of '02. Anyway, the ambiance of the Loring Pasta Bar is warm, hip and beautiful. I love that we chose to go there.

The conversation for this book was one of the better ones we've had. We all loved it. This true story is about Lia Lee, a Hmong girl born in 1981 with Epilepsy to a family of recent Hmong immigrants. Because of their beliefs, the family thinks that the disease was caused by the spirits and try to cure her with not western medicine but with their own Hmong ways. There is a huge misunderstanding between the doctors and the family and I've read some things that her doctors have written. One quote is that "we failed Lia". The American doctors had a difficult time seeing things from the family's point of view and the family was very resistant to western medicine. Being nurses, like a lot of us are, it was completely eye-opening and intriguing not to mention heart-breaking to get a look into Lia's tragic life. This American author does an amazing job of telling Lia's story from both points of view, the Hmong culture vs. western medicine. Also, living in St. Paul, we do actually have one of the largest Hmong populations in the country, second to northern California I believe. We, as a community, and as health care workers need to learn about and be open minded to this population of people, who's ways, although different than ours, are right and therapeutic for them. Working together to bridge the gap between the misunderstandings of our cultures and meeting in the middle can bring balance. Great book and great job by this author.

Tell No One - Jan. 2002

Tell No One by Harlan Cohen

Chosen by: Michelle

Location: Chang O'Hara's

We met at Chang O'Hara's on Selby on a chilly winter night. Carolyn, Jessica, Michelle, Ryan and myself were present. After a drink or two, Michelle announced that she was Pregnant!! I did notice that she was not drinking any beer, but didn't want to guess. Our first book club baby! How exciting. She is due in August I believe. Ah, the times they are a changin'. Congrats Jason and Michelle!

The book was a mystery about a dead wife haunting her husband and the husband needing to find out the truth about his wife's murder. A definite page turner. I normally don't choose mysteries or horror, but I do enjoy reading them. It's a bit fun to be scared in your room in the middle of the night, listening to every sound around you, just waiting for something to happen. Luckily, so far, nothing has ever panned out on my end...just a crazy cat or two jumping out of nowhere. But the beauty of book club is that you have to read books that you normally would not ever choose for yourself. You may like them and you may not, but it's always an adventure to find out.

I love Chang O'Hara's.

Tuesdays With Morrie - Fall 2001

Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom

Chosen by: Jessica

Location: Ryan's new house

Ryan and Kevin moved into their new house a little while ago, but this is our first meeting here. So far we haven't done the restaurant thing yet, we are just making the rounds at our homes. Carolyn, Shelley, Ryan, Jessica and Michelle were all there.

Our plan was to eat some appetizers, drink some wine, discuss the book, then watch the movie version of the book. The book was very touching and emotional. It is about a man who rekindles a friendship with his favorite, professor, who is dying, and they start meeting every Tuesday. "We're Tuesday people" (our group was meeting on Tuesdays at the time so we were Tuesday people too). They discuss life, love and everything under the sun. The main character learns a lot from this older man. I love stories like this. I have been lucky enough to have all of my grandparents and even one great gramma. I love sitting and talking with them. They have so much to share and so much life experience. Some of the best and most valuable life lessons can be learned from those generations before us.

After the movie we decided to make smores by the fireplace. Good idea until Ryan gets a little tipsy. A little marshmallow and red wine on the new tan carpet never hurt anything right? Since it was close to Halloween, Tipsy Ryan wanted to tell some ghost stories. Needless to say, they were more humorous then scary. But she did have a Wisconsin ghost story book that did have some frightening stuff in it. Silly Ryan.

We finally moved into our new house in Roseville and right away got a new puppy, Cedar, the Leonberger. He's gonna be huge. His best friend is Ryan and Kevin's chocolate lab puppy, Gus. So, Cedar got to come to book club too and play with his BFF. He was so tired when I left I carried him out, nearly limp, to the car. Good night.

Lolita - Summer 2001

Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

Chosen by: Shelley

Location: Shelley's on Grand Ave.

We met at my apt. on Grand Ave, still there. We are in the process of buying a house, hopefully we are able to move soon, although I will really really miss Grand Ave living. I was the only one to finish the book. I felt it was a great book but the discussion was very limited since no one else finished it. It is quite disturbing and uncomfortable, but I guess that made it intriguing for me. It is a classic of course with a few movie versions to go along with it. The main character is a middle aged man who stays w/ a family. Included in this family is a preteen daughter whom he starts to fantasize about and seriously flirt with. Wrong and disturbing, yes. As usual though, it was a good time and I'm so glad we are trying to keep up with our meetings. Sometimes it has been difficult to schedule everyone, but we seem to be able to make it work.

Hornito - Summer 2001

Hornito by Mike Albo

Chosen by: Carolyn

Location: Carolyn's house in Apple Valley

We sat outside on her patio and had appetizers and desserts. Those there: Ryan, Shelley, Jean, Carolyn, Jessica.

After discussing the book, a few of us sat in her hot tub. It was a very nice night.

A coming of age novel about a man's struggle with his sexual identity and trying to live the life of a gay man in NYC. Very interesting and trashy at times. Funny and eye opening, yet sad and uncomfortable as well. Good read. I would read more books by this author.

The Redemption of Sarah Cain - not sure when

The Redemption of Sarah Cain by Beverly Lewis

Chosen by: Jean

Location: Jean's house

Jean's house was new at the time and beautiful, so the first thing we did was get a tour. She was only in book club for a few meetings. She became pregnant w/ triplets and life got complicated for her, so she dropped out. After Jessica and I quit Abbott Northwestern and went to Children's Hospital, we eventually lost touch with her.

This book was actually quite painful to read. It was about a big city lady coming into an Amish community due to a death in the family (her sister married Amish I believe). The way it was written it was just plain boring. We all agreed that the Amish are very fascinating people and would normally enjoy a story involving them, but this was just not one of those stories. Whoops.

1st to Die - Feb 2001

1st to Die by James Patterson

Chosen by: Michelle

Location: Michelle's house in St. Paul

James Patterson is, of course, a mystery writer. It was a quick read and the discussion was quick as well. Since it was a mystery, with an ending all tied up, there wasn't a lot left to imagine. The character development wasn't great but the mystery kept you turning the pages. I hadn't read James Patterson before, and I know he's a very popular author, but I don't think I personally will be choosing him in the near future.

Carolyn is getting engaged! We talked a lot with her about the ins and outs of her wedding planning in Kauai, HI possibly.

While You Were Gone - Jan 2001

While You Were Gone by Sue Miller

Chosen by: Jessica

Location: Ryan's Uptown apartment

The members there were: Shelley, Ryan, Jessica, Michelle, Carolyn and Christina

We all brought a dish to pass and I made cream cheese wontons for the first time. They were actually pretty yummy. I am not a cook, so anytime I produce good tasting food, it's cause for celebration.

This was a novel about a woman looking back through her life as she was coming of age at college and dealing with her middle-aged current life. Marital woes, 1960's flashbacks, family dynamics, all which make for good long discussion. We all agreed that we would recommend this one. A good beach read.

Plainsong - Winter 2000

Plainsong by Kent Haruf

Chosen by: Ryan

Location: Jessica's condo in Maple Grove

We met at Jessica's place and had wine and appetizers. She had quite a spread. Those in attendance: Shelley, Jessica, Ryan, Christina, Michelle, Jean and Carolyn. (We gained some members and you can see)

This novel was a coming of age tale about a small town, a young girl who finds herself pregnant and alone, and 2 elderly bachelors who learn to open their lives to this girl and her baby. The characters were nicely developed and the reader was really able to get a feel for the town and the people in it. It was a page-turner and we all seemed to like it and the discussion went for quite awhile. We all agreed that we would recommend it. This became a Lifetime movie a short time after we read it, but I don't know if any of us actually watched it.

Our First Meeting - Fall 2000

We read Ripley Underground by Patricia Highsmith

Chosen by: Shelley

Location: Shelley's apartment on Grand Ave.

Our first meeting. I was so excited. I'd been wanting to get a book club together for a while and as luck would have it, 3 of my friends were very interested. We snacked on some appetizers and drank some wine, had the lights low with soft music in the background. We thought we were pretty cool. The original members: Shelley, Ryan, Jessica T. and Carolyn. Ryan unfortunately was sick that night, so just the 3 of us met. The book was the pre-Talented Mr. Ripley novel about the sinister character, Mr. Ripley. He is always trying to do good, but had an uncontrollable evil streak. He gets into a lot of bad situations and his way out of them usually consists of murder. I had a list of discussion questions that we went through and it was a lot of fun dissecting the book. Although the book kept you on your toes and was exciting, it wasn't one that any of us would recommend. Poor Mr. Ripley. I really hope we continue what we've started here. What a great excuse to get together with friends, drink wine and eat yummy food with fabulous women.

The Who and the Why

This is the journal of The Open Books. A book club that began in the fall of 2000, with only 4 members. It has waxed and waned from 4 members up to 10 members at one time. Currently, and for the past 2 years, we have been stable with 8 members: Ryan, Jessica, Kelli, Michelle, Carolyn, Christina, Kerry and myself, Shelley. Other members have been Angie, Jessica P and Jennifer. We all reside in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Six of us are nurses, one is a social worker and one is a chemist/scientist. We are all moms and of course, are very busy just trying to keep our lives together. The meetings take place about every 6 weeks and whoever picks the book, hosts the book, either at their own house or at a restaurant. Sometimes we do themes, such as ordering Chinese take-out to discuss the book Snowflower and the Secret Fan, or getting the movie version of the book and watch it following the discussion. Whatever we do, there are no rules and we are just glad to be able to get out of the house for a night with the girls.

I started a written journal several years back and have tried to keep it updated, but am continuously falling behind. I am now starting this blog to see if we can do a better job at archiving our meetings in a more timely fashion, and also to encourage my fellow book club members to join me in this process so that there are more views and thoughts than just my own.