Thursday, February 17, 2011

Be Here Now

If you don't recognize it, that's the mantra of "Deep Survival". Until you have truly accepted your current conditions, you can't move forward in any productive sense. That might mean one thing lost in the woods or stuck on a life raft, however, I've begun to use this to get through some of the rough days.

I use it to remind myself to be present in the here and now, to truly enjoy what's going on in this moment. It's so easy to get caught up in thinking of all the things I have to do next, things I should be doing instead of what I'm wasting time on, and the anxiety of wishing I were somewhere else getting errands done, etc.

When I catch myself getting all wrapped up, this little saying has already come in handy, to enjoy the time I'm spending whether stuck in traffic listening to npr, sitting in the sun with my dog, or having dinner with my favourite five year old.

I've certainly enjoyed being here now, and I hope all you ladies are too, whatever you're doing today.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Those We Have Conquered...

The Help by Kathryn Stockett (July 27, 2010; Kilper's)
Wonderful, incredible story that brought us all together. Every book since has been downhill (only my humble opinion)...

Super Sad True Love Story by Gary Shteyngart (September 16, 2010; Gifford's)
Debate on whether this should be classified hard or soft porn, either way, would not recommend to your pastor. Overall though, thought provoking qualities and a very VERY lively discussion.

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen (October 3, 2010; Rajchart's)
Circus elephants and a scandalous story...I think we agree it should make a great movie. Inklings movie night to be planned accordingly.

Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe (December 13, 2010; Levett's)
A few of you hardcore members made it through this one, God love you. It will be awhile before we do another classic.

Deep Survival by Laurence Gonzales (January 24, 2011; Sainato's)
Reading response was, again, pathetic. Who could blame us? We did learn that Karianne is a survivor and you should at least read the last 4 pages of this book if you are going to be venturing into the wilderness alone in the near future.

Great House: A Novel by Nicole Krauss (March TBD, 2011; Gaby's)
Comments pending...

Shanghai Girls by Lisa See (April TBD 2011; Roger's)
Comments pending...

Rules of Fight Club (I mean, The Inklings...)

Alright, Inklings, it was high time we get something official in the works anyway but last night might have spurred some needed regulation. Strong, opinionated women hang with one another so it's no surprise that this group is filled with some intensity! Not a bad thing...and I anticipate some great discussion in future months because of the diversity and passion we all bring...I hope everyone keeps coming!

Official Rules for The Inklings 2.0:

1) What happens at book club, stays at book club.

2) Be respectful when someone is sharing...one person has the floor at a time.

3) Two books will be in the queue, if possible.

4) Host(s) of upcoming months have free reign to choose book selection.

5) Respect the feelings and opinions of your fellow Inklings - even if they haven't read the book (light jeering is acceptable if the individual seems to be capable of handling it (i.e. Deborah))

6) IF, on the day of book club, any of the following occur please note to the group upon your arrival: your cat died, you started your period or are currently PMSing, you lost your job (not on purpose), your boyfriend dumped you or you just woke up in a generally pissy mood and can't explain it. You are of course still welcome, but fellow Inklings need to be prepared.

Lastly, we are adopting a motto of sorts for our little group:

The Most Important Rule of Book Club is to have FUN at Book Club!

Enjoy the amazing women surrounding you for one night out of 42 and be thankful to engage in intellectual conversation instead of sitting in front of the boob tube. Amen.