When was the last time you did something for the first time? I had a new experience recently, taking a writing class with Jennifer Louden, a best selling author. Reading about this in the Paris Review, I stepped out of my comfort zone and plunged in, head first. The setting: 1440 Multiversity in Scotts Valley, CA. Named for the 1440 minutes in a day, 1440 is founded on the belief that each minute is a chance to connect with what truly matters—both within and around us.
Read MoreI, like so many, am reeling from the suicides of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain. I am struck by the tremendous impact that Kate Spade had on people everywhere. It is even more extraordinary knowing that she wasn’t overly present for the past decade, which speaks volumes for the emotional connection to the brand and what she stood for.
Read MoreA recent dinner conversation inspired me to share these thoughts with you. Lovely friends, Kelly and Harry, had just returned from touring the house they were moving to in a few days. On several occasions, the owners graced them with detailed descriptions of the fabulous furniture, accessories and art that would now be in their new living space. The husband had previously regaled them with fascinating stories of the history and provenance of the priceless works of art – valuable antiques, a Baccarat chandelier, precious rugs, art dating back centuries – all museum quality. The wife would describe how these were acquired, the rarity and value, which in some ways, was daunting!
Read MoreI have struggled writing this blog, finding it impossible to finish a thought with tears welling up and at times, completely incapable of writing. I have a catalog of strong emotions when I think about my girlfriends and what they have given me. We know that a single event cannot only shape your life, but illuminate it. Being told I have pancreatic cancer did both of these for me.
Read MoreBy the time this is posted much will have been written on the devastating tragedy in Parkland, Florida. As a nation, we experience so much grief, however in our own lives, none more shattering than losing a loved one.
Read MoreI recently read the book “A Gentleman In Moscow” by Amor Towles. On Page 1, he writes “Well, where is our purpose now? Like so many questions I answer this one with the eye-averted peeling of a pear.” As with every chapter in this wonderful book, this is written with sophisticated humor in rich and poetic language.
Read MoreThanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I pay particular attention to the very good life I am fortunate to live and the countless things I am grateful for. The holidays can bring out all kinds of emotions – incredibly joy spending time with family and friends, enjoying a beautiful meal together, taking a bit of well-deserved vacation – but it can also be stressful.
Read MoreI love the outdoors; there is never enough to satisfy me with the abundant beauty that exists everywhere. I love exercising in nature’s magnificence. I love spending time with my friends in the simplest or most challenging of elements, connecting with mind, body and soul, coupled with surprises and unexpected pleasures around every corner. It is all intoxicating!
Read MoreSeeing the play Hamilton with the original cast in New York was an extraordinary experience, and one that I repeated this past Sunday in Los Angeles. However, this time, the lyrics in the song “It's Quiet Uptown” took on another meaning for me.
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