Peaceable Kingdom (2)

You might think this is a tilted picture, a mistake, but look again: That's my friend Elizabeth Mosier, just beyond a most delicious platter, beyond a candle decorated with a page from her first book, beyond flowers, artfully arranged. And in between it all—caught, a sliver—is her dear husband, Chris Mills. I was there to celebrate the impending release of Elizabeth's novella, The Playgroup, which I had the privilege of reading early on.

It was a cool night. There was a sweet breeze. Elizabeth and Chris's beautiful girls were just inside. The moon was rising over the backyard theater. A roof of blooms nearly cushioned our heads. Every now and then, I'd glimpse beyond Libby, to the kitchen, see Chris at the sink arranging flowers or there by the counter, scrubbing things down.

This is all I want to say (beyond please buy The Playgroup when it's released; Libby has a fierce and intelligent voice): There is something very beautiful about being with a family whose members love each other, are happy for each other, support and nurture each other.