My Dear Friends,
It was so nice to spend another wonderful afternoon with all of you to discuss The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See. It’s a powerful story about a family, separated by circumstances, culture, and distance. The author does an excellent job at painting a remarkable portrait of a little known region and its people. She elaborates on the Akha tribe's culture, the important role tea plays in Chinese culture, and the special bond that connects mothers and daughters -- even if they live continents apart.
I think we all enjoyed eating the delicious Chinese food at Ocean Empire, along with drinking tea, and taking in all the Chinese decor. It was extra special for me because it was my last book club meeting as an “active” teacher, I’ll be a teacher until I die! Thank you all for the delicious chocolates and wine, how did you know…ha, and gift card to Hand and Stone Massage, can’t wait! Your generosity, thoughtfulness, and friendship are forever in my heart!
Wishing all of you a wonderful summer filled with good health, relaxation, adventure, and reading!
Love you all!
Maria P.
Maria, I just have to thank you for choosing this beautiful, touching book. I loved it! You are so right, it touched us on so many levels.
ReplyDeleteYou really went above and beyond -- from the pictures of Akha tea pickers and Akha women in full headdress, to your beautiful gift of tea cups with tea for all of us -- and especially the magnificent china tea set won by Myrna -- you simply outdid yourself.
So just promise not to travel on the first Monday of every month as you begin your new retirement adventures with Bert! We need you at our meetings!!
XXOO
Robin L.
Hi Maria and fellow Bookworms,
ReplyDeleteNice ending to year #8. As always, good book discussion, good food with amazing woman. Love, Love my tea cup! It is so pretty. I loved the pictures you shared of the Ahka women. I also enjoyed the videos you suggested we watch. I love how we learn about people and places while keeping up with each other and of course having time to laugh!!
Have a wonderful summer, filled with relaxation and rejuvenation . Look forward to year #9 WOW!
Hi fellow bookworms!
ReplyDeleteThank you Maria for such a wonderful evening! The food was delicious, not to be outdone by our always lively discussion, and your amazing gifts! The tea cups were so beautiful and that tea set Myrna won was just gorgeous! You are so thoughtful Maria as always. I also enjoyed your pictures of the Akha women and the amazing story of their people, what an incredible fascinating culture!
Congratulations Maria on your retirement! Enjoy, relax and have a blast!
Thank you Robin for putting up this blog, I know it's lots of work, a labor of love for you I'm sure, but I really appreciate all your efforts.
Have a wonderful summer everyone. Hope it's joyous, relaxing and very restful. Can't wait until September, but not rushing the summer away either!
Much love,
Robin A
Good morning Friends
ReplyDeleteThank you Maria for the tea set and cup (I've already used it for my tea). Even though the story had some customs we are not akin to, I thoroughly enjoyed the narrative! It showed how you keep parts of your culture when you start to assimilate to another! All our cultures have so many superstitions! Robin, this music is so soothing. I can definitely use it as a calming tool! Have a wonderful summer!