The Goldfinch

It’s not often that I recommend a book so unilaterally. Frankly, I don’t recommend most books I enjoy because they’re usually too far in the realm of classic on the one end or fantasy on the other. Not true with The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt. Whether you’re man or woman, adventure lover or philosopher, page … More The Goldfinch

Directions

Sometimes in life, you just need to stop and ask the universe for directions. That’s what I did, going into my recent trip to Hawaii with my husband and daughter. After years devoted to (and struggling with) two kids’ books near and dear to my heart, I left it up to vacation to provide some meditation … More Directions

Hope and Hard Truths

Regardless of your political preferences, this is a refreshingly honest talk on grief (see video below) from Joe Biden to military families in mourning. For anyone coping with a loss, I hope it will bring you some peace during this reflective time of year. “There will come a day, I promise you, when the thought of … More Hope and Hard Truths

90-Minute Productivity

Ever have one of those a-ha moments, when you encounter something that seems so brilliantly obvious? The Internet gifted me one such moment a few weeks ago with the “Write It Down” concept. It happened again when I came across this video. If you’re stressed, overworked, a parent, or any combo of the above, perhaps this 90-minute … More 90-Minute Productivity

Write It Down

You’re lying in bed and can’t get to sleep for all the to-do’s in your head: Write it down. You’re confused about a next move on a project or in your life: Write it down. You have something bugging you that you just can’t shake: Write it down. It will help. Don’t believe me?

Make Someone Happy

Sure, gifts are nice and all, but how do you really make someone happy? The GNH formula is a great place to start. That’s “gross national happiness,” as developed by Bhutan King Jigme Singye Wangchuck back in the ’70s. It’s rather fascinating (see the video below, if you want to know more), but the gist is that: … More Make Someone Happy

Criticism Is Awesome

Yep, you heard me right. Criticism is awesome. It may go against our very nature and need for acceptance, but “attaboys” don’t really get us anywhere. If anything, they give us a false sense of security and a tendency to relax and let things happen as they will. Great things don’t happen as they will. Have … More Criticism Is Awesome