It's October Y'all..., Let's Celebrate!!!!
It's U.S. G.I.R.L.S. 13th anniversary of reading together and we are supporting the strides made in the research and development of a cure for Breast Cancer!!
Bonnie spared no detail when preparing for our October meeting. She began by selecting a book that was thematic for the cause, Kimberla Lawson-Roby's, Best Friends Forever. She continued by asking ALL members to invite their best girlfriends and to wear a shade of pink to the meeting. Well, needless to say, everyone complied and the "sea of pink" was both aesthetically and emotionally beautiful.
With smooth jazz permeating the air of the Sonoma Room of Season's 52 and the chairs adorned with pink and white totes, Bonnie began the meeting by welcoming everyone and asking her guest, Charna to offer a prayer for the meeting. With 11 members present (we missed you Val and Kim!!) and 18 lovely guests, Bonnie then asked each member to introduce their girlfriends:
Bonnie: Lynn, Charna & Eileen,
Jackie: Camelia
Karen: Vickye
Dee: Karen
Celeste: Mamie "Peaches"
Dianne: Denise
Roz: Courtney
JayBee: Lisa, Natalie, Rachel, Sharon, Kim, Virginia, Kerwyn, Katrina & Ms. Ford
Once all the introductions were made, we began our "book chat" by discussing the topic of women with careers and finding that delicate work/home life balance. Author, Kim Ford-Hill opened with the importance of not only finding the balance, but the importance of communication. This was the consensus among the group when couples are dealing with conflict resolution and relationship issues.
The conversation turned to the medicinal attributes of the book with regards to self-examination and the decisions we make when it comes to disclosing personal medical issues. Celeste noted that full disclosure reservations may stem from the need for privacy and not wanting to promote a boutique of questions from friends and relatives. Although their intentions may be "heartfelt" no one wants to be questioned about medical tests, diagnosis and etc. Individuals experiencing medical issues also do not want to be interrogated with questions like: "When did you realize it?" or "Why didn't you tell me?" Seriously..., Who does that??????
The question regarding Keith's claims that Celine focused more on her work and did not pay enough attention to him was a topic that was a "keg" of dynamite waiting to explode. Why should Celine be expected to wrap her world around Keith? JayBee was quick to note that Keith, ultimately was going to be Keith, therefore his infidelity would have occurred no matter the situation and he used her strong work ethic as a "scapegoat" for his wandering eyes and other parts of his anatomy. Charna was passionate about the entire male/female dynamic when it comes to relationships. She expounded on the micro and macro effects, particularly how transparency plays a major role, when it comes to couples communicating.
Did Lauren exemplify the characteristics of a true "Best Friend?" Many of the members and guests felt that she simply did what any friend would do, and nothing was extraordinary. We went as far as to question why she did not do more to assist with Kassie when she was "acting out?" Also, what "best friend" would leave another alone and unattended after receiving one of her final radiation treatments? No, BFF I know would do that.
Although the questions were used as a road map, the group navigated through several topics. Sharron, who is a nurse stressed the importance of women (particularly, young women) knowing how to properly conduct self-examinations. It was then that we realized the reasoning for the author mentioning Celine's weight earlier in the book, may have been in direct correlation to the scope of self-examinations. Roz discussed some personal experiences as it relates to Breast Cancer, and guest, Katrina shared her personal medical journey, which emotionally impacted everyone.
Several members mentioned how disenchanted they were in the lack of depth of the characterization. No one was really developed, and JayBee, Karen and Celeste discussed this topic in more detail.
At 1:00, author Kimberla Lawson-Roby was Skyped into our meeting. Bonnie
introduced her by mentioning some of her accolades and we went right into the questions we had for her. We wanted to know, her inspiration for the book; writing novellas, vs. novels, and what some of her current projects were? As usual she was very gracious and accommodating, however this interaction was somewhat different, because she peeled back some of the layers and let us into her personal space. Kimberla shared some intimate details surrounding her family which touched everyone in the room. Of course we had to bring some levity to the conversation and discuss the infamous "Reverend Curtis Black" who is a cornerstone of many of her books.
Before exiting, Kimberla informed us that she will be attending the Jacksonville Book Festival in March and invited us to attend so we can meet her personally. Bonnie thanked her for participating as well as her continuous interaction and support on social media.
JayBee then introduced author, Kim Ford-Hill who spoke with us about her book, "Corny Macaroni" as well as her personal journey of becoming an author and motivational speaker.
After her presentation, we presented Kim with our traditional author's gift and she autographed copies of her book.
JayBee then presented a montage slideshow compiled of photos submitted by members. The photos were of members with their best friends that ranged from childhood to present day. Since most of the photos submitted included our guests, it as amusing to hear their squeals as they suddenly saw themselves emerge on the screen. The reception was so overwhelming that JayBee had to loop it 3, yes THREE times for viewing.
Well, several of you asked that I load the montage on the website, so...ask and you shall receive. It lost some clarity in the duplication process, however the "jest" is still here!!
In honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month and or our 13th Anniversary, a special cake was designed with our logo surrounded by Breast Cancer Awareness ribbons. It was beautiful and tasty.
Before adjourning the meeting, Bonnie presented everyone with a Breast Cancer Awareness tote that contained literature supporting the cause, awareness scarf and pin as well as bags of candy. The room erupted into a hearty applause and exclamations of gratitude for our hostess, as well as our parting gifts..
Thank you, Bonnie for continuing the legacy of our sisterhood by bringing members and best girlfriends together for a book discussion as well as a trip down memory lane. It was truly a display of "Friendships that have stood the test of time"
