Declaring independence

For many, Independence Day has come and gone in an orgy of fireworks, sunscreen and  barbecue.  My holiday was decidedly different this year and it has me thinking hard about independence and what it means in my own life and the lives of my friends.  I suspect I'll be pondering this long after the fuse … Continue reading Declaring independence

Things I will be bringing on my ark

In my hometown, Greenwood Lake, N.Y., there was a guy we called Noah. He was reputed to be building an ark and was quite a legendary character in our small town. He was the first person I ever knew to wear garbage bags as outerwear, predating Bradley Cooper's Silver Lining Playbook character by nearly four … Continue reading Things I will be bringing on my ark

Observations from 46 2/3

During my run the other night, it occurred to me that I was 2/3 of the way through my 46th year.  The realization prompted a few thoughts... I find myself with increasing frequency wondering if an article of clothing is "too young" or "too short." This is not a bid for compliments, just the reality … Continue reading Observations from 46 2/3

14 Things I want Griffin to know (in honor of his 14th birthday)

1.  Birthing you was one of the most satisfying experiences of my life. 2.  Acknowledging, and acting upon, the fact that you're not the only person in the universe will only make you a better man. 3.  You can do anything.  Anything. 4. Being able to do anything doesn't eliminate the reality of life that … Continue reading 14 Things I want Griffin to know (in honor of his 14th birthday)

What I now know about pressure cookers…

They scare me. I've always considered the pressure cooker to be the most menacing piece of kitchen equipment.  I understand the appeal of cooking something super fast, rather than leaving it to braise for hours upon hours, but I was always intimidated by their mystery.  This past week has only confirmed my fears. They continue … Continue reading What I now know about pressure cookers…

My youngest son is obsessed with John Lennon and related dilemmas

Quinn asked me to load some Beatles on his iPad recently and I finally had a moment to do it this morning.  He has been really into Here Comes the Sun and chose this song as our first tune of the day.  Not a bad way to start a Sunday, I'd say. As the music … Continue reading My youngest son is obsessed with John Lennon and related dilemmas

Notes and observations from the road – Day 1

Taking the bus from economy parking became a sobering experience when the driver explained that we would have to get off the bus and wait for the State Police to inspect the bus with their dog, because a previous passenger had left a piece of luggage behind. I've flown to Europe many times but don't … Continue reading Notes and observations from the road – Day 1