Exploring one of life's most valuable gifts
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 →
I recently finished reading Kristin Hannah's fascinating new book "The Women" after it was recommended by a neighbor who had served our country as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam when he was 21 years old. This neighbor is one of the kindest individuals I've ever met, and I was very interested in the book because... Continue Reading →
The longer days and warmer weather of the summer season offer many opportunities to create new memories with friends. Sara and I have written before about this treasured time of year when we can spend more time outdoors with friends, bringing us closer to nature and each other. Whether it’s a leisurely walk through the... Continue Reading →
Several of my friends are talented artists who are very passionate about their work. Two of them, Dassie and Chana, are being featured as part of an exhibit in a local gallery this month, and I was fortunate enough to attend the opening reception this week. The reception was held midweek at a gallery that... Continue Reading →
Language of Friendship 