I applied to colleges sight unseen. My guidance counselor, a really nice person, was one of the freshman football coaches. My high school had negligible experience with selective east coast colleges. So, it is really weird to observe college admissions today. Two of my children are in high school and at schools that prescribe a great
Category: Family life
A Call with My Sister
I just finished a long Saturday night phone call with my sister. We don’t speak that often (I’m not great about keeping in touch), but when we do, it’s usually about something important. I get a lot out of these conversations. I’ve written about the tremendous challenges she has endured (more here), and I really
A Long Way from Brooklyn
I was at the grocery store this Sunday morning when it opened. I’ve done this on many Sundays over the years. The store is quiet, and many of the workers are still stocking the shelves. I’ve become friendly with a few of them, since there’s time to chat amidst the quiet activity. One of them
Our Family’s Yard Sale
It’s been a busy Sunday. We had our first-ever family yard sale. I ran into a lot of people with whom I almost never come in contact. It was great for our children. Let me explain. Over the years, we’ve accumulated a lot of things, including hundreds of children’s books and stuffed animals (see photo
What’s Up with Our Food Supply?
It’s an overcast Sunday morning on Labor Day weekend. The cool air and grey skies make me glance ahead to autumn. So, I will be cooking a roast chicken with gravy for dinner, and also, a vegan and gluten-free apple crisp (sans the nuts) for dessert. Some kids will demand vanilla ice cream, too. Autumn flavors
Barbie Doll Brainwashing
Holy crap, I officially am freaked out. A Barbie Doll recently arrived in the mail at our house. “Whoa!” one of my children said, as the package was opened. “Freaky–the eyes are so big, and the legs are so long.” I’ve never paid much attention to dolls and subliminal messages they send about “ideal” body