Exploring one of life's most valuable gifts
Summer can feel like a gift, but also a bit like a tease. Once it's finally and reliably warm enough by July 4 to plan a beach outing in the Chicago area, we have to face the fact that summer is nearly half over. Still, summer is easily our favorite time of year here at... 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 →
Father’s Day is this weekend, an annual celebration of the dads and father figures who shape our lives. There are many ways to recognize the everyday heroes who quietly helped raise us, and then guide us through adulthood. For me and Sara, we’ve shared in our writing the impact our own dads have on our... Continue Reading →
As much as I love to read, I never want to waste my limited leisure time reading books that are not my cup of tea. I want to be sure I'm going to enjoy a new title before committing to spend time on it. The question is how to find books that I will love... Continue Reading →
Watching my 17-year-old son John prepare for his upcoming trip to live with a host family in Germany this summer fills me with complex emotions. I am incredibly proud of him, seeing him embrace this new adventure. But I am also a bit anxious, a natural concern for his well-being so far from home. With... Continue Reading →
Julia wrote last week about her wedding, but I can’t move on quite yet from that glorious day without sharing a little bit more about her and Mark’s festive occasion. Witnessing my dear friend embark on a second chance at lifelong love has been a true blessing for me ever since I first began hearing... Continue Reading →
May is always a big month for celebrating milestones, such as college graduations and the unofficial start of summer. Now, it also will be the anniversary month for me and my new husband, Mark! Last weekend, Mark and I got married in a small ceremony witnessed by our families and a few dear friends. Keeping... Continue Reading →
Today is the day of the year designated for celebrating moms and mother figures. I've written before about how the day can elicit the range of emotions, and Julia and I both have recognized the value our own cherished moms have brought into our lives. My mother is a walking miracle. --Leonardo DiCaprio However you... Continue Reading →
Language of Friendship 