Exploring one of life's most valuable gifts
Sometimes a meaningful gift—one that is sincere, beautiful, and personal—can be a powerful reminder of a connection. Staying connected with friends in adulthood can be challenging, when work and family responsibilities seem to dominate our time. If we’ve moved across the country as adults, friendships can span states and time zones, making it even more... Continue Reading →
Earlier this summer, my son John graduated from high school. Since then, his calendar has been filled with graduation parties, a summer basketball league, and just hanging out with friends. In late August, John will start college at Syracuse University in upstate New York. While I'm excited for him, I will really miss him. Fortunately,... Continue Reading →
As the 4th of July approaches, it's a great reminder to make the most of longer summer days with family and friends. Growing up my summertime highlight was my family's annual trip to Cape Cod. I loved visiting so much, I decided to work there summers during college, and as an adult resumed visiting the... Continue Reading →
On this Father’s Day, we pause to honor the steadfast presence that so many fathers, and father figures, bring to our lives. They’re the early morning alarm clocks, the after-hours homework helpers, and in the case of my dad, the person who always made sure my car was full of gas. Dads teach us resilience... Continue Reading →
Spending time in nature can be refreshing, and research shows it's essential to our well-being. Beyond emotional relief, nature plays a powerful role in stress reduction and often improves overall mood. When life feels overwhelming, retreating to an outdoor space can provide refuge and a sense of connection. The Mayo Clinic Press reported last spring... Continue Reading →
Longer days in May are a welcome reminder that summer is almost here. For as long as I can remember, I’ve lived for my family’s annual summer trip to the beaches of Cape Cod. And in June I’m headed back to the Cape for the first time since 2022 with my now larger, blended family.... Continue Reading →
Since Sara and I live an airplane ride apart, the times we meet up in Boston, Kentucky, Chicago or any other destination we’ve chosen to visit, are truly special. In late April, we were able to spend an evening together in Chicago with our families and Sara’s exchange student, Lea, at one of my favorite... Continue Reading →
April 23 is World Book Day, an opportunity to reflect on the transformative power of stories. We’ve shared book recommendations in past blog posts, and in honor of World Book Day, we’d like to share a few good reads about friendships that transcend geography, generations, and even species. We invite you to join us this... Continue Reading →
Since last spring I’ve been helping my 18-year-old son navigate the college admissions journey. In many ways, I’m better equipped than most parents since I’ve worked for and with universities, so I know a lot about the vagaries of the admissions process. However, those same qualifications created a bit of hubris in the approach I... Continue Reading →
In the rush of everyday life, interactions with others are often brief, and pass without much notice. Or the people around us become a source of frustration, causing us to think, “Why can’t they drive faster so I could have made that light?” or “Why is that person in front of me in the express... Continue Reading →
Language of Friendship 