Ch-Ch-Changes

In the midst of fear, sadness, anger, and confusion, I am consistently awed by those who find a way to break through the chaos with true, meaningful change. This book club post is all about hope and renewal, even when surrounded by darkness and circumstances that are unknown.

READ: The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

The Secret Garden on Goodreads

Few stories capture the transformative power of hope and resilience as beautifully as The Secret Garden. Frances Hodgson Burnett weaves a timeless tale of renewal, as young Mary Lennox discovers a hidden, neglected garden and brings it back to life. Along the way, she transforms herself and those around her, proving that growth can emerge from even the bleakest of circumstances. This classic novel is a gentle reminder that, even when everything feels lost, healing and beauty can be found with a little courage and care.

EAT: Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball

Get the recipe on Allrecipes

Indulge your sweet tooth with this playful and decadent snack. A delightful mix of cream cheese, butter, and mini chocolate chips forms the "cheese ball," perfect for spreading on graham crackers or dipping with pretzels. It’s the ideal companion for a cozy reading session, striking just the right balance of comfort and indulgence.

DRINK: Fleming Fizz

Find the recipe on Epicurious

Sip on hope and renewal with the Fleming Fizz, a sophisticated cocktail that blends scotch, ginger syrup, lemon, and soda water. The warming ginger and refreshing fizz evoke a sense of rejuvenation—just what’s needed to complement our theme of growth and change.

Let’s gather to discuss how The Secret Garden resonates with us, especially in moments when life feels unpredictable. How do the characters’ journeys inspire us to tackle challenges in our own lives? Join us for this comforting and invigorating evening of transformation, one page (and bite!) at a time.

Happy R-E-D-ing!

Please note that these recipes and photos were not created by me. I am just a hungry and thirsty reader with an appreciation for the finer things!

REFERENCES AND PHOTO CREDITS:

The Secret Garden: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2998.The_Secret_Garden?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=9EV705LTeI&rank=1

Chocolate Chip Cheese Ball: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/26740/chocolate-chip-cheese-ball/

Fleming Fizz: https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/fleming-fizz-scotch-ginger-cocktail