Book Club Redux (Again)
(is it ironic that I accidentally published/posted this before it was done; so I had to delete the original post and then REPOST an updated version of a post that has ‘redux’ in the title?)
About 6 months ago, I started another book club. I had ulterior motives. I didn’t want to lose touch with the group of smart, funny, and generally wise-ass women I had gotten to know at my then workplace; since some of them (as well as myself) have since moved on to other professional pastures. Although the politics of that workplace frequently made our eyes roll back in our heads in collective disbelieve and dismay; this group of co-workers was amazing. I have never made better friends so quickly at work.
B and I worked together quite a bit and we have a shared sense of humor. If we sat next to each other during a meeting there was a very good chance that one of us would crack up; which was problematic and slightly unprofessional since one of us (or both of us) were generally running the meeting. B would mumble sarcastic comments under her breath so only I could hear them; and I would occasionally send snarky instant messages (IMs) about the unfortunate casual Friday wardrobe choice of a colleague. A tip to any male readers: Short shorts are a poor choice at work (or anyplace else) This isn’t the 70s!
For those of you that work in offices: The next time you are in a meeting and people are focused on their laptops – keep in mind that they are probably IMing the person across the table about lunch plans or about the Edward Scissorshands-like hairdo on the 12 year-old intern sitting next to them.
My first book club was great fun for several years, until we experienced too much attrition to keep it going. One member moved to Florida (Hi Cheryl!), another decided to travel the world (Hi Deanne), another kind of drifted away (Miss You S!). Scheduling with the remaining few became a nightmare. We are all still friends, although we don’t see each other nearly enough.
So – the new book club is now in full swing and it feels like it has gelled into something that we value and (therefore) will continue. For your reading pleasure, I offer my personal recipe for a successful bookclub.
1. The main ingredient is 3-6 Fun, funny, smart women friends (Men are optional, but their presence will inhibit important conversations about menopause)
2. Wine: B provided glasses that would hold a whole bottle. Which is good, because I was driving and could only have one glass.
3. A book selection: We rotate book selection, which means we get a reasonable variety. Keep in mind that not everyone needs to like every book. In fact, we have more interesting discussions when some like the book and some don’t. (Warning: according to SOME ‘The Shipping News’ is too dense and it is a poor choice- humph).
4. Wine: I personally prefer white, but its best to have both red and white.
5. Snacks: Most of my sisters-in-books like to show-off with home-made items, including bacon wrapped goodies. (you can wrap almost anything in bacon and it is delicious). Of course, if you have enough wine, a box of Ritz crackers and a tub of cheez-whiz will do.
6. Location: We rotate among our houses. the host provides the snacks and WINE. We don’t go crazy about cleaning. That defeats the purpose of a stress-free evening with friends.
So, there you go: Free of charge – a proven recipe for success. Read on!