Exploring one of life's most valuable gifts
Most people crave the feeling of belonging. A desire to create community and coalesce around a shared purpose is what has led to the lasting success of many community, university, and social organizations. Growing up, we find community in the classroom, experience shared victories on sports teams, and discover common interests in clubs. Then we... Continue Reading →
This week I unexpectedly attended two funerals. The first was for the 88-year-old father of a close college friend. Her father was a very successful businessman, who had found time to call his daughter daily. She will certainly miss him dearly. The second funeral was for the 23-year-old daughter of a local friend. When illness... Continue Reading →
Even when you're relocating for the best of reasons—such as accepting a new job or moving into a dream house—it can feel extremely isolating. Leaving established friends and neighbors behind and building new routines in an unfamiliar place can feel insurmountable in the beginning. But, with a little patience, persistence and strategic planning, you are... Continue Reading →
September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness of suicide risk and promoting resources for prevention. According to the CDC, “suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States,” and results in “one death every 11 minutes.” It is an overwhelming statistic, and suicide can seemingly occur... Continue Reading →
Every so often I get together with a group of 10 or so local friends for a night out. By the time we pick a date and a restaurant that everyone can agree on, numerous texts have flown back and forth. With the many logistics to sort through, we sometimes feel more annoyed than excited... Continue Reading →
Today marks the passing of 23 years since the vile and senseless terrorist attacks that resulted in the murder of nearly 3,000 innocent souls and exponentially more lives that were altered forever that day. We will never forget the victims and their loved ones who continue to cope with their losses. Of joys departed, not... Continue Reading →
Fall is a magical season of vibrant colors, crisp air, and plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories with friends. As much as I love fall, between the back-to-school madness and a shift into high gear at work when summer ends, Labor Day can sometimes feel like stepping on a gas pedal that won't let... Continue Reading →
My best cooking ideas have often come from friends and family. Comparing notes on food habits, sharing traditions and exchanging recipes is not only a great way to improve your culinary skills, but it also can be very bonding. Food is our common ground, a universal experience. James Beard Julia and I have collected a... Continue Reading →
Have you ever been inspired by a friend to try something new? I'm not talking about the kind of peer pressure your younger self may have experienced back in high school that led to bad decision-making. I'm talking about being inspired by someone you care about to broaden your horizons in a positive way. Last... Continue Reading →
Becoming a parent is an experience that forever changes the landscape of friendships. Before parenting, most of us make friends at school, work and through shared interests. But once the first child arrives, hobbies can become memories. And in my case, any time not commuting or at work was spent parenting and attempting to stay... Continue Reading →
Language of Friendship 