The Fault In Our Stars

We didn't know it was the last time we'd be gathering at Jessica's house…until her announcement that she is moving this summer!  We are all surprised, and saddened because we love her and the perspective she brings to our group.  Of course, she might rejoin the group in 3-4 years (we are holding her to this) so it might not be good-bye, but until then.

She fed us an amazing pasta dish and spinach salad (recipe below), and allowed us to hold her adorable baby.  We had lots of great discussion about this young adult book by John Green and are allowed to see the upcoming movie if we wish.  (In accordance with Erin, the strictest mother in Canton's, rules regarding seeing movies that are based on books.)

Points of Discussion:

• Most of the group really liked the book and felt it did a great job realistically presenting a difficult situation and all the emotion, complication, and viewpoints involved.
• We contrasted Augustus' desire to make an impact on the world and Hazel's opposite wish.
• The Dutch author part was not appreciated as much as the rest of the book, but we were at least glad that the questions Hazel was asking about her favorite book were never resolved.
• The lack of resolution about Hazel's favorite book mirrored the lack of answers we received about the characters after Augustus' death.
• The characters' illness and the way they dealt with it and thought about it was often moving and enlightening for us as we thought about those we know who face these things or imagined ourselves in their situation.
• We reminded ourselves that this book is directed at a young adult audience which renders some of the passages less fulfilling or less appreciated by us at a different stage of life.

Fun Facts:
Jessica finally got a wine aerator!  Yes!  Now we just need to work on Elspeth...
Dare I?  I'm not sure how to properly document the topics of "monkey rape" and "elephant porn" but they must at least be mentioned.  Briefly.
I'll never forget the tone of Nancy's voice as she turned to Greta and asked, "So….what WERE you thinking?"
Be advised about the dangers of depression and how it can result in spermicidal tendencies.
We are planning the most fun July meeting ever- not only will we discuss Erin's book choice, we will also have a Painting Party hosted by our resident artist extraordinaire!  It's also a farewell party for Jessica :(

Chicken Spinach Pasta
8 oz. uncooked rigatoni
1 TBS olive oil
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach thawed
3 cups cubed cooked chicken
1 (14 oz) can Italian style diced tomatoes
1 (8 oz) container chive and onion cream cheese
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded mozerella

Prepare rigatoni according to package directions.  Meanwhile, spread oil on bottom of 11 by 7 baking dish, add onion in a single layer.  Bake at 375 for 15 minutes until tender.  Transfer onion to large bowl and set aside.  Drain shopped spinach well, pressing between paper towels.  Stir rigatoni, spinach, chicken, and next 4 ingredients into onion in bowl.  Spoon mixture into baking dish and sprinkle evenly with cheese.  Bake covered at 375 for 30 minutes.  Uncover and bake 15 more minutes.