Let's just take a moment and admire the absolute masterpiece we experienced at Laurie Schram’s home, brilliantly co-hosted by the ever-talented Carla O’Malley? Because ladies, that evening was not just a gathering… it was a full-on gallery opening. 

From the moment we stepped inside, the scene was set with the most breathtaking “composition.” Laurie’s home? A work of art. The ambiance? Soft, layered brushstrokes of warmth and elegance. And that cocktail? A vibrant splash of color that would make even the boldest painter pause and say, “Now THAT is how you capture spring.”

And then… the kitchen. Oh, the kitchen! A masterpiece worthy of its own global exhibit, inspired by all the places Theo called home.

Paris flirted with us through croissants, New York arrived fashionably bold with bagels and lox, Brazil added rich, savory depth, Georgia brought the soul with barbecue and that unforgettable peach cobbler, Portugal whispered elegance through its spreads… It was as if Theo himself had curated the menu. Each bite, another stroke in a beautiful, worldly canvas. And let’s not glaze over (pun fully intended) the desserts… crème brûlée, beignets… honestly, some of us may still be emotionally processing them.

Then came our discussion of Theo of Golden… a story already rich with color, humanity, and connection.

And here’s where it all came full circle. Later shared, the town that inspired Golden is Columbus, Georgia, the hometown of Allen Levi. A place filled with local coffee shops, portrait-lined walls, quiet benches, and meaningful moments… not so different from what we created together that evening.

Because just when we thought the night couldn’t get more inspired… Laurie and Carla unveiled their final artistic flourish. Our portraits. Yes… OUR sketched portraits! Much like the 92 faces lining the walls of the Chalice Café in Theo’s story, we each became part of the collection. And it’s safe to say… no one saw that plot twist coming. The gasps. The laughter. The “Wait… is that REALLY me?” Pure magic.

And as if that weren’t enough, we were each handed a beautiful glass of port from the region in Portugal where Theo was born… because of course, no detail was left unpainted.

Needless to say, everyone loved the book. As passages were read aloud, the emotion deepened… layer upon layer… until the entire room felt like a living, breathing work of art.

Laurie and Carla, thank you. You didn’t just host… you created something truly special. An evening that mirrored the very heart of the story we all fell in love with.

Because if Theo of Golden reminds us of anything, it’s this: The most meaningful places aren’t just destinations… They’re created through people, connection, and moments like these. And this one? This one felt like Golden.

Love to read and connect with neighbors? Join the Hidden Lake Book Club! We meet on the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. If you're interested—or know someone who might be—reach out to Mary Pittman by call or text at 248-866-8743. All are welcome!