FCM Book Club: The Room

Abbie hosted the discussion of Room by Emma Donoghue.  While the story did not lend itself to a themed menu anyone would enjoy eating (think mushy frozen vegetables and canned fruit) it did lead to a great discussion. Everyone was very excited to see what cocktail would be served since breast milk was a central theme in the book. We get that serious about the books! However, even Abbie would not be that creepy! She served a white chocolate martini made from two ounces White Chocolate Godiva Liqueur and one ounce triple distilled vanilla vodka.  Just add to a cocktail shaker over ice. Shake then serve. When a drink is this simple good alcohol is a necessity.  Don't scrimp!

White Chocolate Martinis

A Little Nervous and Rightly So!

Jamie and Ella

Katie and Cindy

Spicy Pickled Asparagus Wrapped in Ham

Creamy Asparagus Soup

Dinner started with a creamy asparagus soup followed by broccoli casserole. It sounds strange but is liked by everyone who has tried it! The key to a successful book club meeting is making dishes that can be prepared in advance. Dessert was taken right out of the book, one treat the characters got to enjoy. A traditional yellow cake with, of course, five candles.

Room is a very interesting read.  Not everyone loved it but it sure makes you think.  If you have not read it put it on your list! Next for the FCM Book Club, Eleanor and Park, by Rainbow Rowell.

Garden Tour

When a long-time friend asked if our mom, Cindy, would have her yard on the Garden Tour her first response was, “No!" Then she said, "Oh, why not!" At the first signs of spring she got to work and the results of her hard work were amazing.  

Cindy Moosman-Jett, The Host

Goldie McGrath, Tour Guide

Hidden Marigolds

Goldie acted as the official tour guide greeting every visitor and showing them the way. She even made the news! Check out the story.

Catnip

One of Many Birdcages 

Play Spot

Goldie and Her Strawberries

Poppy McGrath

Outdoor Dining Space

Cindy calls her yard a work in progress and it probably will always be.  “I love the tulips, daffodils and the bright yellow forsythia of early spring and when those have past their bloom along come the iris, the snowball tree, poppies and then the roses. Late summer brings the full tomato plants, all you can pick basil, massive sunflowers and my little granddaughters eating handfuls of blackberries and raspberries straight from the bush.”

Basil and Tomatoes Among the Flowers

Back Patio

Cindy’s garden has been the setting for yard parties, baby showers, hot dog roasts and late night gatherings lasting all the way to the first frost. Most Saturdays you will find us meeting over morning coffee and something Skylar has baked. There is always a lot of laughter to be found here.

Whirligigs Made by Grandpa Elmer 

Quilts, Antiques to New Ones Made by Friends

Teeter Totter 

Flowering Cactus 

Cindy's garden is unique and ever changing.  Thank you to everyone who came to tour it and those who enjoyed these photos!