May Book Club

 

My neighborhood book club met for the last time this “season” during the first week in May and had a very animated discussion about our book choice - The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah.  As book clubs sometimes do, the discussion went on a bit of a tangent and got a little too political for my taste in that setting, but there were some topical themes dealing with immigration that I’m not sure the author intended when it was written.

I did like the book and I was happy about that since I find this author hit or miss.  The Great Alone is one of my all time favorites, while some of her others are too close to traditional romance novels.  The main theme of the story is the survival of a family in the dustbowl era.  It begins in West Texas (almost exactly where I just traveled to, so that was interesting) and ends in southern California.  Many harrowing things occur, but the characters are well written and that time in history is something I was only slightly familiar with and the author’s detail was strong. 

All that said, the ending was a weak point for me, because it felt way too far fetched.  But, don’t let that stop you from reading this, because the other ninety nine percent is worth your reading time.

Happy Friday!

Family Hike in Texas

 

The day after the wedding in Lubbock, we planned a hike for the whole group and there ended up being 14 who braved the desert sun in Palo Duro Canyon.  It was quite the experience and definitely not an easy hike, with many elevation changes, loose rocks and being close to the edge of the canyon in most spots.  But, the views were incredible and we all did it together and encouraged each other along the way.

After the hike, because “when in Texas”, we found an authentic Texas barbecue joint, just outside Amarillo and had our fill of brisket and ribs.  We lived in Dallas many years ago and I have missed everything about Texas, but maybe the food the most.

Coming from Florida which is fully green and tropical, the dusty desert of West Texas was like traveling to the moon.  We all commented on how amazing that one country can have such different, but beautiful landscape. It made me thankful for the opportunity to travel and experience new places.  And, doing it with family, was the best part.

Texas Wedding in Photos

 

Such a beautiful wedding in Texas where we danced the night away under the stars.  Before the wedding we had a great family day too.  Lubbock, Texas, the bride’s hometown and my nephew’s adopted home did not disappoint.  Family time is the best time, and we enjoyed every minute.  Texas forever.