Origins of “Ole!”
What does the word “Ole!” make you think of? Rejoicing, dancing, bullfights, Spain? But before it was Spanish, it was a religious chant from another country altogether.
What does the word “Ole!” make you think of? Rejoicing, dancing, bullfights, Spain? But before it was Spanish, it was a religious chant from another country altogether.
This is Lupita Nyong’o. You may know her as the Oscar winner from 12 Years a Slave. But it was her speech on beauty that many of us found more Oscar-worthy—especially us moms already battling the pretty princess phenomenon with our little girls.
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
We had one date in college, and it was a disaster. That was 17 years ago. After college, Chicago kept putting us in each other’s paths. Eventually, mutual friends had a party, and I decided to give him another chance. Plus, he said he was up for trying tango lessons with me—and he actually followed … More Two to Tango
In honor of my dear friends, Chris and Cara, who are getting married this weekend, I want to share two exemplary literary excerpts on the topic of marriage. Although I’m partial to these wedding readings because they were a part of my ceremony nearly ten years ago, I particularly like them because they offer a unique take on lifelong love … More Wedding Readings
How do we reconcile love and difference? It’s a question we all must confront at some point or other, whether as fellow citizens, friends, siblings, daughters, sons, spouses, or parents. Particularly as parents. How we face this question doesn’t just affect us. It sculpts those born to trust in our guidance, love, and example. As Jim Sinclair, … More Love and Difference
I heard a song on the radio the other day and remembered singing it to Szaba during the wee morning hours when she was a baby. Now my “baby” is three, and though I’m not particularly a Bruno Mars fan, I still take this song’s message to heart. It’s up to me to keep Szaba believing she’s nothing … More Birthday Song
In her TED Talk “Dare to Disagree,” Margaret Heffernan speaks to the power of “no” and the people who aren’t afraid to tell us that. I know all about this kind of person. I’m married to one. He’s honest with me and challenges my ideas, even when it’s not what I want to hear. And … More The Power of No
With my friends Heather and David getting married this weekend, I’m in a wedding kind of mood. And who better to wax poetic about life stages than Joseph Campbell?
This is a very special Wednesday for me. Why? Because the incredible songwriter Leonard Cohen just released his new Old Ideas album! At age 77, Leonard is just as dapper, talented, and insightful as ever. Take a moment. This man’s words are sure to feed your soul. Before we get to the new stuff, here’s my … More New Old Ideas