The street pianos have arrived! 75 pianos have been installed around the Boston area, each painted by a local artist. I found two today, the first was this glorious ‘Mericana piano over by the Boston Children’s Museum. (Yes, that’s ‘merica and Americana, in one awesome extra made up word for you.) This piano was decorated by Amanda Baldi, hosted by Children’s Museum and donated by Sarah Asetsano. A few years ago when we had painted cows everywhere I thought that was pretty cool, but pianos! I hope people play them. I touched the keys apprehensively today, but maybe I’ll sit down and actually take some time with one in the next few weeks.

Here’s the second one I came across at the Greenway by the North End – a sort of ombre faux wood grain thing going on, by artist Tova Speter, hosted by Greenway and donated by Berklee College. I’m generally a big fan of public art, even if it’s a little out there, wacky, or ugly – there’s no better public conversation starter – and most of the time the art is delightful. These will be up for just a few weeks, and I hope people get as much a kick out of them as I am.

After a long, busy (but fun!) day at work, I was looking very forward to my evening plans! Tonight was our second monthly Boozy Book Club – with several women from my gym. Jacqueline was the gracious hostess this go around, and I was greeted enthusiastically at the door by her sweet pup Simone (Momo!).

You guys.. this dog.

I’m obsessed with Frenchies, religiously read The Daily Wag, and lust after my own. The first five minutes I pretty much completely ignored my friends so I could get some puppy love. Look at that face!

In fact, I was so enamored, that I failed at getting good photos of the food, because I was so distracted. But the food! Jacqueline made a feast for us:

The Menu:

Sweet potato beefy chili
Sesame crackers, guacamole, and grilled spiced chicken
Bacon roasted brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze
Carrot and beet slaw with pistachios
Rolled prosciutto, walnuts and comb honey

For dessert, Bets brought a gorgeous apple tart (with the apples perfectly arranged), and Lisa brought baked figs wrapped in prosciutto.

At some point, we ended up chatting about the book – Beautiful Ruins, by Jess Walter.  Because apparently I’m incapable of reading anymore, this was the second book club that I’ve shown up without finishing the book. Despite the fact that I’ve actually had this book on my bedside for two straight months. And, yes, if you’re paying attention, that’s two out of two delinquencies. We’re slated to read the cult classic, Anita Diamant’s The Red Tent next month, so hopefully I’ll be on top of things.

What are you reading?