Last Night’s Book Club

 

The way my book club works is that if you suggest a book, you also volunteer to lead the discussion.  That is no hardship for a book nerd like me, because  I enjoy coming up with questions that are interesting and will move the discussion.  I am drawn to books that will bring personal experiences out and that the members of the book group can relate to or even maybe empathize with the characters.

This book, about of group of ladies facing that next stage in life after widowhood or divorce (similar in age to my book group) and having the courage to move forward by agreeing to live together in Tuscany for a year.  It seemed perfect for a group like us, who had all recently made a move to Florida from another state.  We started the discussion talking about where we came from and what gave us the courage to make such a big change.

Women In Sunlight, by Frances Mayes is a novel, but in a similar style to Under The Tuscan Sun, her more famous memoir.   She fills her books with rich descriptions of food, travel, home improvement and gardening that immerse you in the place, in this case Tuscany.  This is a story of new friendships, having the courage to change and living a different life than you ever imagined.  

Under The Tuscan Sun, is one of my favorite books and while Women In Sunlight, proves that the author is more accomplished at writing non fiction, it is still an enjoyable read and a way to visit Tuscany right from your favorite reading spot.

Happy Reading!

Life Lately

 

We are experiencing the most beautiful weather; the kind that draws you outside where you take notice of the birds chirping, the blue sky and the sunshine.  I also feel incredibly optimistic about Covid, with more and more people getting the vaccine and positivity rates dropping in the state overall and especially my county (Sarasota) and even my zip code at <1%.  Still lots of mask wearing, but otherwise open.

I have been enjoying the pool at home and getting out and about too, like to the Farmer’s Market on Saturday morning.  How fun to get fresh, local vegetables in the winter and especially strawberries, direct from Plant City. We have a fabulous Farmer’s Market in Venice with live music, a variety of vendors and the added bonus of blue skies and Royal Palms overhead.

 There has been a lot of planting going on both at my house and in my neighborhood where I continue as chair of the Beautification Committee.  We designed a new bed by our pickle ball courts that is getting raves. It’s hard work, but I do love it.  With new plantings in Florida, there is no shirking from daily watering and that is keeping me on my toes, with all the sunny, dry weather.

Here is a sampling of my life lately in photos.  Happy last day of February!

Chai Tea Latte at Home

 

I was so happy to find this recipe.  A chai tea latte is something I would order more often at coffee shops, but when you don’t drink caffeine, there really isn’t ever the option.  At home, I can simply make this using decaf black tea.  And, my newest obsession and Amazon purchase, my hand held frother, takes it to another level.

Here is how you make the chai spices.  

Mix together:

1 T ground nutmeg

1 T ground ginger

1 T ground cloves

2 T ground cardamon

2 T ground cinnamon

Store in an airtight container.

To make one serving of chai tea latte:

Brew one serving of strong black tea.  In a small glass pitcher or measuring cup add 3 ounces of half and half, 1/2 tsp of chai spice mix and a splash of vanilla.  Heat  for 45 seconds in microwave, then froth.  Add 2 squeezes of honey to hot tea, stir and then top with the spiced froth.

This recipe is so simple, delicious, and a great alternative to coffee.  It also proves that anyone can be a barista, right at home.

Happy Monday!