ASD June Book Club: The Women
The Women by Kristin Hannah, is an excellent portrayal of the Vietnam War and the impact it had on the soldiers and nurses who served in the war. Told from the perspective of Frankie McGrath, a nurse who experienced the war first hand, Hannah creates a moving story that demonstrates how the war impacted her life, from the horrors of working in chaotic hospitals to her return to a very divided and ungratefull America. Her heroism in facing this painful journey is uplifting…
Why Learn How to Play Mah Jongg? It’s Engaging, Challenging, Unexpected and Addictive
A lot of our friends are thinking about playing Mah Jongg. We began playing over two years ago and it’s been quite the journey. Although it can be challenging, it is such a engaging game. And we have had the best time learning…
What’s Blooming at Desconso Gardens?
It’s finally spring in Southern California. One of the most beautiful places to spend the day is at escanso Gardens. The tulips are blooming and the garden is glorious. It’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon…
A Hike to the Hollywood Sign (and a Bit of Sign History)
If you want to learn a bit about the famous Hollywood Sign, there is no better way then starting at Beachwood Canyon where it all began. Today we talk about the origins if the iconic sign, some interesting things to see in Beachwood Canyon, and where to hike to get a better view of this Hollywood landmark….
ASD February Book Club: Lady Tan’s Circle of Women
Lady Tan’s Circle of Women is a work of historical fiction that focuses on the life of one of the first female doctors, Tan Yunxian, in China during the Ming Dynasty. The book follows Tan through childhood where she was introduced to the medical profession, to her adult life depicting the challenges in her pursuit of practicing medicine. This a story of an extraordinary woman who was committed to improving the lives of other women.
Experiencing Astra Lumina at The South Coast Botanic Garden
If you haven’t yet visited Astra Lumina at the South Coast Botanic Garden, you are in for a treat. It is a stunning experience which let’s you take a night walk among the stars. Our visit was magical; let us take you on our journey…
Visit Luna Luna, the World’s First Art Amusement Park
Luna Luna is a spectacular art amusement park that has been lost since 1987 and is now on display in downtown Los Angeles. With rides and attractions from the most prominent artists of the time, it is a sight worth seeing…
The Huntington Rose Garden Tea Room: Worth the Wait?
After many months of trying to get a reservation at the Rose Garden Tea Room at The Huntington, we finally scored! Was the wait worth it? Let me tell you about our experience…
ASD January Read: The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store
James McBride’s newest novel, The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store tells the story of the community of Chicken Hill in the 1920s and 1930s. A town of immigrant Jews and African Americans, it focuses on overlapping character stories which ultimately demonstrate the strength, resolution, determination and love of community that these individuals share.
Killers of the Flower Moon: Read the Book or See the Film?
Undoubtedly you have been seeing a lot of media attention for Killers of the Flower Moon. The Scorsese movie has been getting so much critical acclaim that it seems like a “must see” But Harriet and I also read the David Grann book (the film is based on the book) so the question is to see the film, read the book or do both?