Stolen Lives Opened Our Eyes & Jamie Warmed Our Souls

November book club was a great conversation of the will to survive, the inhumanity of parts of humanity that exist even in our time, and how where we are born has so much to do with how our lives turn out. 

It was a great reminder and eye-opener that we are recipients of millions of freedoms that we don't even realize we are enjoying.  From the amenities of running water, sanitary foods, electricity, freedom of religion, political persuasion, safety, literacy, accessibility to the greatest libraries, medical advancements, and even the neighborhood park, we really have it all. 

Our discussion explored a few ways we can make a difference worldwide for those in poverty stricken areas, and what we can do locally (ask Kristi Cummings if you want suggestions on either). 

Jamie spoiled us with irresistible cheese balls and crackers, delicious veggies, rock candies, and a yummy virgin mixed drink with lemon and mint (I don't remember what it's called).  Jennefer topped off the broad selection with delicious home made shortbread cookies that seemed to vanish by the evening's end.

With Thanksgiving on the brain, I would like to thank each of you for your generosity.  Thanks to all of you for making our first year as a book club such a success; it is a highlight to my every month to be with you.  Thank you for hosting, for reading, for showing up whether or not you read, for moving your schedule around to come,  for sharing your thoughts (no matter how polarized), for accepting me and the other group members as a friend (despite our occasional differences of opinion).  Thanks be to your good husbands for watching the children so you could have a night out with the girls, and thanks for inviting other fabulous people to join us that we wouldn't have had a chance to meet otherwise.  May the upcoming holidays be filled with love, peace, and harmony is my wish to you,

Natalie Griffith       

p.s. If you ever need to unwind, come over for a cup of hot cocoa and marshmallows, even just for 15 minutes after the kids have gone to bed.  Send me a text, and I'll start heating up the water.