A Note from our President –

February is the time for love—and who deserves it more than ourselves? So, love the one you’re with 24/7! Indulge, comfort, educate, and celebrate her this month—The Wanderers are here to help. Come check out this month’s activities:

Lunch Bunch—enjoy some Southern comfort food at Revival

            Coffee Break—warm up at the Edina Grill

            Evening Books—help make some plans for upcoming discussions

            Books & Booze—meet us for happy hour at Byerly’s

See you there!

Sally                            Sally@TheWanderersMPS.org

ACTIVITIES

LUNCH BUNCH: Wednesday, February 3rd, 10:45AM Departure—Revival

4257 Nicollet Ave S, Mpls, 612-345-4516.

Not headed south this winter? Treat yourself to some of the best southern cooking I’ve ever encountered. Forget about the calories and just enjoy the fried chicken, biscuits, collard greens – well, you get the idea. Southern hospitality is alive and lip smackingly delicious.

A carpool will leave Edina at 10:45AM. Otherwise meet us at the restaurant at 11:15AM

RSVP by Monday, February 1st to Carol at Carol.Schaub@comcast.net

Directions: Hwy 62 East to 35W North. Exit at 46^th Street. Turn LEFT (W) crossing over the freeway to Nicollet Ave. Turn Right (N) to restaurant.

COFFEE BREAK: Wednesday, February 10^th,10:00AM—The Edina Grill

5028 France Ave.  Edina    952-927-7933

Please come join us for coffee or tea and maybe have a late breakfast, too. Check out their menu at www.edinagrill.com

RSVP by Monday, February 8th to Brenda at Brenda@TheWanderersMSP.org

NIGHT-TIME BOOK TALK: Monday, February 15th, 7:00PM—at the home of a member

This organizational meeting will help determine how many people are interested, where, when and how often to meet, and how the books will be selected. Bring your calendar and book suggestions.  Regular attendees of Books & Booze are invited, too. If you’re interested in participating but unable to attend, please let Sara know, along with your input of the above.

RSVP by Saturday, February 13^th to Sara at Sara5217@aol.com

BOOKS & BOOZE: Tuesday, February 23, 3:45PM—Lund’s and Bylerly’s MEZZ

(wine bar on 2^nd floor), 7171 France Avenue South, Edina, MN 55435

The Girl on the Train, by Paula Hawkins

“A psychological thriller about a woman who becomes emotionally entangled in a murder investigation because of something she witnesses on her daily commute.”

Since 1922 Lund’s and Bylerly’s has been offering exquisite food. The “new” Bylerly’s store is designed in a very unique way. You must see to believe. Upstairs is their “mezz” which has a wine bar – great place to meet and visit. At Happy Hour they have great prices on local beers and wines – $3-5. You can bring up anything from downstairs BUT they also have great appetizers from chips and salsa to cheese and meat boards – $3-$12.

Come even if you don’t care to drink or have not read this great book. If you can’t make it until 5’ish that’s OK. We discuss first—eat later.

RSVP by Sunday, February 21st to Ann at RogerBaumg@aol.com

Next Book–April date TBD – “All the Light We Cannot See”, by Anthony Doer

“A stunningly ambitious and beautiful novel about a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths collide in occupied France as both try to survive the devastation of World War II.”

A Note from our President –

Help ring in another great year of welcoming women to our group.

In the meantime, have a Happy New Year!

Coffee Break—Patisserie Margot’s in a new spot with the same great treats

Night-Time Book Talk—come help us organize an evening group

Games People Play—have some laughs at Elaine’s

Lunch Bunch—meet us at Avenida—a new Latin fusion spot

Evening Social—come meet some prospective new members
See you there!              Sally Ebnet 

JANUARY ACTIVITIES

To RSVP simply click on the blue email addresses below

COFFEE BREAK: Wednesday, January 13th, 10:00AM—Patisserie Margo

4510 Valley View Road, Edina (NW corner of Valley View and Wooddale) 952-926-0548

Please come check out Patisserie Margo’s new location. The wonderful pastries haven’t changed. Enjoy one with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

RSVP by Monday, January 11th to Brenda at kurtandbrenda@mac.comor 952-217-4052.

NIGHT-TIME BOOK TALK: Wednesday, January 6th, 7:00PM—at the home of Sara Kloepper

5217 Tifton Dr.       Edina      612-462-2649

Sara, one of our new members, has graciously stepped up to chair an evening book club. This initial organizational meeting will help determine how many people are interested, where, when and how often to meet, and how the books will be selected. Bring your calendar and book suggestions.  Regular attendees of Books & Booze are invited, too. If you’re interested in participating but unable to attend, please let Sara know, along with your input of the above.

RSVP by Monday, January 4th to Sara Kloepper at Sara5217@aol.com or 612-462-2649

Directions: Hwy. 100 to 70th St. exit. Go 1 block west to Raybun and turn RIGHT (South). Go straight two blocks to Tifton and turn LEFT. House is about 2 blocks down on the left.

GAMES PEOPLE PLAY: Thursday, January 21st, 7:00PM—at the home of Elaine Krantz

9700 Portland Ave., #323 Bloomington 952-888-8383

There’ll be lots of fun and laughs. Snacks and desert provided.

RSVP by Tuesday, January 19th to Elaine Krantz at ElaineJKantz@gmail.com or 952-888-8383

Directions: #494 east to Portland Ave. exit. Turn RIGHT (S) and follow to 98th Street. Complex is on your RIGHT at NW corner of 98th/Portland.

LUNCH BUNCH: Saturday, January 23rd, 11:30AM—Avenida Cocina & Bar

11300 Wayzata Blvd, Minnetonka 952-977-9888

Newly opened in December. Mexican and Latin fusion—featuring the flavors of Mexico, Argentina, Peru and Brazil. Check out their interesting menu online. Not your typical Mexican restaurant menu. Fun décor. Getting great reviews.

A carpool will leave Sally Ebnet’s (4501 Claremore Ct.) at 11:00. Please email her at SallyEbnet@yahoo.com if you plan to carpool.

RSVP by January 21st to Carol Schaub at Carol.Schaub@comcast.net or 952-545-6886

Directions: West on #393 to Hopkins Crossroads exit. Follow frontage road on West side of #394 just around the curve. Restaurant is in the same complex as Trader Joe’s, Dick’s and Land’s End.

EVENING SOCIAL: Thursday, January 28th, 7:00PM—at the home of Sally Ebnet

4501 Claremore Court, Edina (72nd/Wooddale)

You deserve a girls’ night out! Come enjoy dessert and a glass of wine while you get to know your neighbors and other women who are looking for fun and friendship. Dessert and wine will be served.

RSVP by Tuesday, January 26th to Sally Ebnet at SallyEbnet@yahoo.com or 952-920-4042

Directions: West 70th to Wooddale Ave. South on Wooddale 3 blocks to Claremore Court (cul-de-sac on RIGHT) Street sign in yard street sign is in front yard—hedge with arbor over front walk.

A Note from our President –

            Things are starting to move into high gear. Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and after that the countdown to Hanukkah and Christmas is underway.

So, my annual gift to you is this advice: Let go of just a little this year, and take more time for you! If only I can follow my own advice! Join us at all, or some of the wonderful activities we’ve planned—they’re guaranteed to relieve a little stress, put you in the holiday spirit and help you touch base with busy old and new friends.

Coffee Break—come gather ‘round the fire at Caribou

Holiday Luncheon—meet us in Biaggi’s beautiful wine room for this festive gathering

Brunch—fortify yourself for an afternoon of shopping at the new Ridgedale Nordstrom’s

Books & Booze— teetotalers and non-readers are always welcome

See you there!              Sally  Ebnet

DECEMBER 2015 ACTIVITIES

COFFEE BREAK: Wednesday, December 9th, 10:00AM—Caribou Coffee

3835 W. Old Shakopee Road       Bloomington     952-881-4230

Grab a hot cup of coffee or tea and join us as we gather around the cozy fireplace. This Caribou is located on the corner of W. Old Shakopee Road and France Ave., near the Valley West Shopping Center.

RSVP by Monday, December 7th to Brenda Barney-Loken at KurtandBrenda@mac.com

Directions: France Ave, South to W. Old Shakopee Road. Caribou is on South East corner.

HOLIDAY LUNCHEON: Friday, December 18^th, 11:30AM—Biaggi’s

Eden Prairie Center, West of Target

Don’t miss our annual holiday celebration. Biaggi’s lovely Wine Room will put you in the holiday spirit. Come get to know all our wonderful new members.

Cost: $19.50 includes Tax & Tip—Wine, Beverages and Dessert not included.

Menu

House Salad

Grilled Chicken, Honey Mustard Sauce with Balsamic Vinegar and Rosemary

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Sauteed Portabello Mushrooms

Seasonal Vegetables

RSVP by Thursday, December 10^th with your check for $19.50 payable to Sally Ebnet mailed to: 4501 Claremore Court, 55435

SATURDAY BRUNCH: Saturday, December 19^th, 10:00AM—Ruscello at Nordstrom’s Ridgedale

12401 Ridgedale Blvd.   651-900-6800

Come check out the recently opened and newly remodeled Nordstroms. Enjoy a relaxing brunch with us before heading out for an afternoon of holiday shopping. Ruscello is a full-service restaurant featuring Mediterranean and Italian-inspired cuisine. The menu is bold in flavor, focusing on great appetizers, salads, sandwiches, brick-oven pizzas, pastas, entrées, breakfast items and house made desserts.

A carpool for those planning to come back to Edina immediately following the brunch will leave Edina at 9:30AM. Email SallyEbnet@yahoo.com if you plan to carpool.

RSVP by Thursday, December 17th to Carol Schaub at Carol.Scahub@comcast.net

Directions: North on Hwy.100 to 394W. Exit at Ridgedale Blvd, turn left (south), then right into Ridgedale Mall. Most convenient entrance is on the upper level, south side, opposite the sears car care center. Enter Nordstroms and then turn left (east).

 BOOKS & BOOZE: Tuesday, December 29^th, 3:45PM—Macy’s Lakeshore Grill

Southdale Center (952) 924-6727

The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

“On a remote Australian island, after WW I, a lighthouse keeper and his barren wife welcome the miraculous arrival of a child that delivers profound love but also the seeds of destruction.”

Since 1905 Macy’s has been feeding the shopping population. This is a great place to find regional favorites and outstanding traditional classics.   The Lakeshore Grill is where you can actually hear people talking to one another –no loud music! Fabulous appetizers, wine and beer from $3 – $5. Come even if you don’t care to drink or have not read this great book. If you can’t make it until 5’ish that’s OK. We discuss first—eat later.

RSVP by Sunday, December 27, to Anne Shea at AnneShea2@gmail.com

READING AHEAD–BOOKS & BOOZE TITLES FOR 2016

February 2016 – The Girl on the Train, by Paula Hawkins “A psychological thriller about a woman who becomes emotionally entangled in a murder investigation because of something she witnesses on her daily commute.”

April 2016 – All the Light We Cannot See, by Anthony Doer “A stunningly ambitious and beautiful novel about a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths collide in occupied France as both try to survive the devastation of World War II.”

June 2016 – Ordinary Grace, by William Kent Krueger (local author)“Looking back at a tragic event that occurred during his thirteenth year, Frank Drum explores how a complicated web of secrets, adultery, and betrayal shattered his Methodist family and their small 1961 Minnesota community.”

August 2016 – The Round House by Louise Erdrich “When his mother, a tribal enrollment specialist living on a reservation in North Dakota, slips into an abyss of depression after being brutally attacked, 14-year-old Joe Coutz sets out with his three friends to find the person that destroyed his family.”

October 2016 – One Thousand White Women: the Journals of Mary Dodd by Jim Fergus “When May Dodd journeys west into the unknown, it's a far better fate than the life she left behind. Committed to an insane asylum by her blue-blood family for loving a man beneath her station, May’s only hope of freedom is a secret government program sending civilized women to the brides of Cheyenne warriors.”

A Note from our President –

The colors are at their peak this week. After all these glorious warm and sunny days, it’s hard to believe winter is right around the corner! Always sad to see summer and fall come to an abrupt end. So, get out of the house this month for some fun with ENC!

Coffee Break—join us at Bloomington’s West Side Perk

Lunch Bunch—meet us at Lela—the new restaurant in the former Sofitel

Games People Play—there’ll be fun and laugh’s at Elaine’s condo

See you there!         Sally Ebnet

NOVEMBER 2015 ACTIVITIES

LUNCH BUNCH: Tuesday, November 3rd, 11:30AM—Lela

5601 W. 78 St, Bloomington, (Bloomington Sheraton Hotel)   952-656-5980

Remember the Hotel Soffitel? There have been a bunch of restaurants in that building. I think this restaurant’s menu and reviews look promising. Anchored by a bustling open kitchen, Lela is comfortably modern with a friendly atmosphere. The menu creative, and features a wide range of ethnic inspired seafood, inventive salads/sandwiches and handmade pastas rooted in classic technique.

COFFEE BREAK: Wednesday, November 11^th, 10:00AM—West Side Perk

7700 W. Old Shakopee Road, Bloomington

Meet us for a hot cup of coffee or tea and a yummy treat.

GAMES PEOPLE PLAY: Tuesday, November 17th, 7:00PM—at the home of a member

There’ll be lots of fun to be had. Snacks and desert provided.

COMING UP

BOOKS & BOOZE: December Date TBD—The Light Between Oceans by M. L. Stedman

On a remote Australian island, after WW I, a lighthouse keeper and his barren wife welcome the miraculous arrival of a child that delivers profound love but also the seeds of destruction.

HOLIDAY LUNCHEON—Stay tuned for a date and location coming soon.

A Note from our President –

Wow, these chilly nights mean summer’s really winding down. Get out and take advantage of these last warmer days before it really feels like Fall. I’m not ready for summer to end. Come along with us and enjoy our Minnesota autumn, along with all the “colorful” and fun activities we have planned.

Coffee Break—meet us at Panera for baked goods, coffee and conversation

Explorers #1—Come along for a drive to Northfield and the Red Barn Farm

Explorers #2—Visit the Faribault Woolen Mill and Owatonna Children’s Museum

Books & Booze—The Outliers at Pittsburgh Blue

See you there!         Sally Ebnet

OCTOBER 2015 ACTIVITIES

COFFEE BREAK: *Tuesday, October 13th, 10:00AM—Panera Bread

3345 Hazelton Road   (952)835-7825

Please come join us for coffee or tea and something yummy to eat.

EXPLORERS #1: Thursday, October 15th, 9:30 Departure—Faribault Woolen Mill Company and      Owatonna Children’s Museum   

1500 NW 2nd Ave./ 540 West Hills Circle

Let’s venture south and enjoy the fall trees and pumpkins while we take two tours through historical times. The Faribault Woolen Mills is celebrating 150 years this year. Founded in 1865, the year Lincoln died and the Civil War ended, Faribault woolens are renown for their comfort and quality—a living testament to American craftsmanship. We will have a guided tour through the mill.

10,635 orphaned, abandoned or abused children were sent to this Minnesota State Public School for Dependent and Neglected Children from 1886 to1945. For some, it was a circle of hell; for others a safe haven. As the only known Orphanage Museum in the nation, it was founded to “remember the children”. We will have a guided tour of the museum, visit a restored boy’s cottage and view a 1930’s video. The orphanage would appreciate a donation of a minimum of $7 per person. A carpool will leave Edina at 9:30 AM

EXPLORERS #2:  Wednesday, October 21st, 12:00 PM Departure–­Red Barn Farm

10063 110th Street E., Northfield, MN. 55057 507­664­0304

Red Barn Farm is in a rural, laid back setting that harkens to a simpler time and way of life. Pizza Night is every Wednesday, May­October beginning at 4:00 PM.  The brick oven cooked pizzas are made with home-made dough, which is vegan friendly.  Chemical free gardens are utilized for the toppings (onions, squash, spinach, eggplant, tomatoes, basil).  Bring your own beverages (beer and wine are ok) appetizers to share, paper plates, cups, plastic utensils, napkins, stadium chair or a blanket.  We will be eating picnic style outside on the grounds. There is a general store on site where canned and baked goods, appetizers and beverages can be purchased. Prior to our visit to the Red Barn Farm, we will spend the afternoon strolling through the shops in downtown Northfield, stopping for a coffee or latte in one of the coffee shops and just enjoying the fall colorson our trip down to Northfield.  A car pool will leave Edina at 12:00 PM.

BOOKS & BOOZE: Tuesday, October 27th, 3:45 PM— Pittsburg Blue, Outliers: The Story of Success

Galleria, 3220 70th Street   952-567-2700

Every neighborhood has a “good bar” says Pittsburgh Blue! Life is better when you have a watering hole to call your own—somewhere you can drop in without dressing up, unwind after work, or meet up with friends. We used to have a place like that back in the day. And now we do again. Fantastic $4, $5 and $6 mini treats await you including “the wimpy burger”. Drinks are $5-$7.

“Malcolm Gladwell takes us on an intellectual journey through the world of “outliers”–the best and the brightest, the most famous and the most successful. He asks the question: what makes high-achievers different?” Even if you have not read the book – just come.

READING AHEAD: December Date TBD—The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

On a remote Australian island, after World War I, a light keeper and his barren wife welcome the miraculous arrival of a child that delivers profound love but also the seeds of destruction.