Book Club

A few months ago, I stepped out on a limb to pursue one of my dreams. I started a Book Club. Jeff thinks this is the funniest thing ever, and our friend Jake told me last night that I needed to apologize for the dorkiness of this every time until I'm 40, at which point things like "Book Clubs" become more socially acceptable. Luckily, I learned back in my high school newspaper editing days not to let a few jealous haters ruin my fun. :)

Last night, eleven wonderful girls from all different areas of my life came over to sit in my living room, have wine & cheese, and chat about a fantastic book. We had so much fun that I thought I'd include you all too. **If you are like my sister who RSVPed: "I hate reading and don't drink wine. I LOVE cheese, but that's not a big enough motivation to outweigh the other two" I'll forgive you if you think this post is boring. Just come back tomorrow when I move on to more ridiculous and funny things. :)

This month's book was The Help by Kathryn Stockett. The story takes place in Mississippi in 1962 and centers around a 22 year old college graduate who is more or less an outcast among her high class "Junior League" friends because she isn't married yet. Anyway, in the midst of the Civil Rights Movement across America, the main character decides to write a book anonymously telling the stories of some the black maids living and working for her friends' families. I can't really put it into words but it is BEAUTIFULLY written, and really opens your eyes to our past and even a little bit of our present. I HIGHLY recommend this book for your holiday reading.

Also, if you are feeling especially motivated, check out The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society too. This our December/January pick. Read up, and I'll post some notes from our discussion in mid January.

P.S. Thanks to everyone who has already voted in our Table Decorating Contest. We've had over 50 votes and the race is CLOSE! (Thanks to a major comeback on my part today... whew.) I'll keep the poll up until Wednesday, so, if you haven't already, cast your vote now!

TODAY: Table Queen 2009

It's finally here... Thanksgiving!! Hope each of you enjoy your day with family friends & remember all the things you have to be thankful for. I'm certainly thanking my God for all the blessings he has given me this year!

In the meantime, check out our table pictures for the decorating contest and PLEASE cast your vote on the RIGHT MARGIN.

Happy Holiday!
E

Tomorrow!

Hey folks,

As promised... tomorrow is, yes Thanksgiving, but also the 3rd Annual Table Decorating Contest at my house!!

This began as a "convenience" a few years ago when my mom and her BFF decided to say goodbye to stuffy Thanksgivings with the same family members they see every week and join together for more of a "Thanksgiving Party." However, since no one had matching dishes/flatware/etc. for groups of 20+, it was decided that each "hostess" would set & decorate her own table. The idea being that, at the end of the evening, each person would only have to take home and clean up dishes and linens for six-eight people instead. Being a newlywed that year and anxious for my first chance to use wedding china, I joined in.

Thus, a healthy competition was born.

If you came to my house right now you would find three gigantic plastic tables with hideous folding chairs overwhelming my usually "simple" decor. BUT, tonight at 7, we will begin the transformations. In years past Mom, Peggy, and I have taken photos of our tables and e-mailed them (without our names, obviously) to friends for a vote. This year, we will use the blog!!

So, in between parades, turkey, naps, and football.... please stop back by tomorrow to vote for the Table Queen 2009.

Love & Thanks to you ALL!