Themes in the Vineyard by Louisa Thomas Hargrave The Vineyard is a memoir that focuses on themes of both wish- fulfillment and self-fulfillment. The author, Louisa Thomas Hargrave, was the co-founder with her husband of a wine region on Long Island that now encompasses over 3,000 acres of fine wine grapes. At the same time, she raised two children, twenty-two cats, three dogs, four sheep, and three horses. Some of the themes in her book that will resonate with many readers and provide provocative topics for discussion are: How do we choose what to do in life? What if we decide to do something others think is impossible? Are we trying to prove ourselves, or defying someone else's idea of what we should be? How does a marriage succeed when the spouses work in the same business? Is it necessary to have a sense of place in order to be happy? What happens when the goals that spouses once shared change and, over time, become different? Can someone who is a pioneer, an entrepreneur, be satisfied when their creation becomes routine? How important is it to provide the best schooling or extracurricular experiences for children if doing so takes a toll on the family? What is the obligation of a neighbor in a time of need? How important is it to have a mentor when starting something new? Is it important for children to see their mother in a feminine role, even if her work is physical? Why is it that, no matter how much we anticipate problems, we will never be able to foresee the most difficult challenges? Is it true that pioneers pay twice? Who qualifies as an "expert," and can their advice be misleading? How important a role do pets play in a family? What is the effect of working closely with Nature? Should spouses who work together express their opinions when they disagree, even if their conflict may damage their business? How much work is too much? How much does the constant need for infusions of capital in a family business take a toll on a marriage? How does physical strength relate to mental and emotional strength? How can you make a desire to succeed turn into success? Is it inevitable that a woman who begins to take charge of her own life will alienate her husband? What does it take to recover from rejection and divorce? Is there such a thing as a "simple life?"

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