Photo source: Pinterest

Another gal from my Book Club hosted at her house recently.  It was a spirited afternoon of friends and conversation.

Her tablescape was simple, but very pretty…

and she served us a lovely lunch~

Kale salad with brussels sprouts

A colorful and delicious fruit salad

Classic quiche lorraine

We also had a yummy brownie dessert which I forgot to take a photo of

The book we discussed was The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown.  Most of us rated this book a 4 1/2 or 5 (out of a 5).  One or two gals gave it a 3-4 mainly because it is such a lengthy book.

To put it briefly:

When I first read a short synopsis of this book I thought it was an “Unbroken Wannabe”, but with a more boring sport.  Boy, was I wrong – Daniel James Brown had me totally sucked into this book by the first several pages of the book.   Even though this book is about the true story of these 9 young men, I loved how Brown really told their story through the perspective of only one of them, Joe Rantz.  Another major reason I was so smitten with this book is I learned so many interesting facts about the American West during this time period I hadn’t known before.  I also learned so much about the sport of rowing, and most certainly no longer see it as a ‘boring sport’.   I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more by Daniel James Brown.

Another Recommended Read

  This book is also an inspiring true story about a blind man, Michael Hingson (also the author), and his guide dog (Roselle) who were in Tower I on September 11, 2001.  Hingson writes about their incredible escape together (and trust in each other) from the 78th floor of the Tower to finally getting out of the building alive.  Moreover, we learn about Hingson’s extraordinary life.  The book gives some great insights into the daily challenges, experiences, and discriminations blind people face on a daily basis.   Hingson also provides some interesting information on guide dogs.  Dog lovers, like myself, will especially appreciate this book.  I was saddened, however, to learn of the passing of his beloved Roselle in 2011.

“God does not present insurmountable problems.

Instead, He gives us challenges, waits for us to overcome them, and then rejoices.”

        ~ Michael Hingson

“Beautiful Day in St. Thomas”

Painted by our Book Club Hostess from her recent plein aire artists’ trip to St. Thomas