March 22 - 'The Spinning Heart'

Heather hosted eight of us for lovely evening of Irish conviviality. Her corned beef and cabbage was delicious, as was her colcannon, both of which were complemented by Michelle's tasty casserole with a sweet potato crust. Karen made a yummy sweet bread, Lisa's little sandwiches were so good, and Susan's apple cake (complete with candles and singing for certain birthdays) was the bomb. My apologies, but I can't remember what else was there, it was kinda overwhelming (in a good way!).

Those who read the book found much to discuss in well-written novel about difficult circumstances.

NEXT MEETING
We don't have a meeting scheduled for April. Should we?

Febraury 28 - 'The Swan Thieves'

Five of us gathered on a spring-like afternoon for a sumptuous feast provided by Michelle and to discuss The Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova. Michelle's menu of jambalaya, curried vegetable soup, and blue cheese custard was rounded out by Karen's delicious salad. The hors douvres included edamame and cheese on crackers and BBQ potato chips (the latter thanks to me - somebody's got to do it). Bread and rolls I think were supplied by Leann, and Becky grilled banana bread and added ice cream and caramel sauce for dessert.

The bling that was brought to exchange was quite lovely, and most of us found things to take -- or wear -- home.

We also had a lively discussion of the book, which everyone seemed to like and most of us listened to instead of read. We all guessed what was going to happen to some extent, but it left questions (excellent in a book discussion book) -- how much moral latitude should artists be given? How about that psychiatrist breaking the rules! Any chance Robert was related to Beatrice?

NEXT MEETING
What: The Spinning Heart by Donal Ryan
Where: Heather's
When: March, date TBA