Best bites – Ireland, 2019

People say all kinds of negative things about Irish food - it’s bland or all fried or what in God’s name is black pudding?, but I’m here to tell you there is some excellent food to be had on the Emerald Isle. While my first day of eating was a disaster with two subpar meals, … Continue reading Best bites – Ireland, 2019

Baking with Kate – an Airbnb experience

Airbnb has been my got-to for accommodations abroad for the last 4 or 5 years, I’d say. Basically, if I’m going to spend more than two nights somewhere, I want to have the amenities that make a stay feel more like a home - kitchen facilities, perhaps or lounging space when I’m traveling with friends … Continue reading Baking with Kate – an Airbnb experience

The thrill of espadrilles

While I wouldn’t describe myself as incredibly traditional, there are some classic wardrobe pieces for which I have a genuine fondness. My Frye Campus boots or the gold charm bracelet I’ve been adding to for decades, for instance. I love the fact that neither will ever go out of fashion and that adding either to … Continue reading The thrill of espadrilles

Repairing my ability to divert.

Diversion can be a really good thing. When floodwaters are heading straight towards a vulnerable location, a well placed levee can help to avert disaster by directing the water to a better protected area. Similarly, when a person finds themself continuing to ponder a situation for which there is no happy ending, a shift in … Continue reading Repairing my ability to divert.

Saving money with Rent the Runway

  All right, look, I could probably find 10 reasons to justify spending $159 a month on my Unlimited Membership, but let me tell you the number two reason why I’ve been continuing the service - since I became a subscriber in November, I’ve spent a total of about $55 buying new clothes and $0 … Continue reading Saving money with Rent the Runway

Mums the word – Mumford and Sons at the Times Union Center

Confession: three concerts in three nights nearly broke me. By the time Sunday morning rolled around last weekend, I was completely exhausted, but I couldn’t stop smiling. What a great few nights this little city of ours showed visitors, local music fans and me! Here’s how this early March Bucket List concert went down… After … Continue reading Mums the word – Mumford and Sons at the Times Union Center