Looking for Me by Beth Hoffman

I just finished Looking for Me by Beth Hoffman.  This was the book chosen for next Book Club, and, even though it took me awhile to finish it, I enjoyed reading it.  I probably would not have picked this book - and that's one of the great things about being a part of a Book Club - but I'm so glad I read it. Our last book was a thriller.  I will admit it was written very well, the images and plot were a bit much for me.  While the others did enjoy the intensity, we all agreed for something a little more light hearted.  Julie and her husband love to go to estate sales, and even rented a space at an antique mall. Things were going well, so they decided to open their own antique shop - why shell out money to rent storage space and a booth, just pool the money together for a space to rent and fulfill the dream of owning their own shop.  It's adorable, by the way... Dog and Duck Antiques and Gifts.  I can't remember which one discovered this book on the many lists we looked through, but, after reading the description about the main character owning her own antique store, it seemed like a great choice.

Ken and I went to see the new store about 3 weeks ago.  You can easily tell they've been hard at work, and we had fun visiting and shopping.  Julie asked me if I had finished the book, and I had to sadly admit I hadn't even started it.  She said she enjoyed it and loved how it corresponding to her own life while starting their antique shop.  She said there's also a side story woven throughout.  With that we left the store with our "new" treasures and my intent on reading this book.

The author has a way with words, so that you truly understand the depth of the characters.  I won't give away much more of the book, except to state the people are "real" with "real" issues and you can't help but feel their highs and lows.  My favorite quote - "My mother used to say that each day was a gift and how we chose to unwrap it would determine our happiness."  It is my hope that during a personal struggle - because we all have them! - I will remember these words.