There has never been a home owner who has said, “Now everything here is done… forever!” There have been and are and always will be more projects to tackle. Come to think of it, same goes for parenting… But at least with the home projects, I’ve found a solution that (dare I say it?) is genius. … More To-Do To Done
One of the most magical things about books is their ability to transport us into other places, lives, and experiences. This is especially important for kids, giving them a larger context of the world beyond their backyards—thus paving the way for creativity and acceptance. Here are some our family’s favorite multicultural children’s books. I would love … More Multicultural Children’s Books
Every recipe in my recipe album has a reason for being there. Most are passed on by family or created in our own kitchen. But a select few (some of our favorites) are from friends. On each recipe I make sure to note who passed it on to us, when they first shared it with … More Food and Friends
Did you happen to catch Matthew McConaughey’s Oscar speech? Sure, it had your typical Hollywood elements of narcissism, divine shout-outs, and a complete disregard for larger matters that his own character brought to light. None of that impressed me. What did impress me, however, were the questions he posed regarding the three things a person should … More What Are Your Three?
I recently came across an idea-packed article on creativity rituals, which included everything from naps to bar brainstorming to frequent vacations (yes yes and yes!). They also mentioned something called an “interesting people fund,” the idea of which was taken from an interview with entrepreneur and author Ben Casnocha: By pre-committing time and money to meeting interesting … More Interesting Person Fund
Sure, you’ve had beef stew, but not like this. Sweet and savory. Rich and tomato-free. Unexpectedly herbal. Around these parts (i.e. our house), we call it “Brother-in-Law Stew.” Ryan first concocted it at my sister’s house for her, my parents, and my brother-in-law. Thus the name. But you can call it… Beef Stew With Gnocchi Ingredients for … More Beef Stew With Gnocchi
At age 30, with a great education, a decent job, a loving wife, and a first child on the way, Jia Jiang realized he never chased his dreams because he always chose security over rejection. He saw himself dying with regrets and told his wife so. Despite being pregnant (when most people would choose security … More Rejection: A Love Story
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?
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
My mom came up with the “hour gift” idea when I was 12. At first I absolutely hated the idea. But with time, it’s grown to be one of my favorite holiday memories. And now it’s a tradition for my own little family. Maybe it could help slow down the Christmas craziness at your house, too. The … More Hour Gifts
My Castle Heart Publications 