Well there isn't much to say that hasn’t already been said about the state of our union at this time with regard to Covid-19 ... and yet, is there still a little more? For this time of year always has been, and always will be, as Charles Dickens' wonderful ghosts reminded Ebenezer Scrooge, "a time of giving." A time to step outside of ourselves just a little more than usual and turn our gaze … [Read more...]
It’s so nice to go traveling …
There's something about getting on a train: Setting your luggage on the rack above you, settling into your window seat, hearing the report of a smoky whistle while setting off on an adventure to your chosen destination. Whether traveling on a vacation, a weekend getaway with your lover/spouse, or a day trip to visit a friend, there is nothing as romantic or relaxing as going by rail. The … [Read more...]
A time for celebration, reflection, renewal
Whether you observe Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, old Celtic traditions -- or simply the passing of one year and the entry of another -- one thing on which we are all in accord is the celebration of life on this rich and remarkable planet Earth. Marking the passage of time, sharing deeply held traditions -- we attempt to uphold these treasured values to the best of our ability. As Tiny Tim, … [Read more...]
‘Tis the season for the little things
Once again the joy and challenges of the holiday season have arrived -- accompanied by expectations, hopes and a sense perhaps of inventory taken at this time of year. We look back on the year with feelings of accomplishment, awe, sadness, happiness and insight. Perhaps with joy; perhaps with regret. For some, a year goes by quickly; for others it can feel like the longest journey of a … [Read more...]
The Day of the Dead: Come celebrate
The Day of the Dead is just that -- a holiday on which deceased family and friends are remembered and celebrated. In Mexico, "Día de los Muertos" is taken so seriously that it ranks as a national holiday. Nothing creepy about the Day of the Dead, even though it occurs right after Halloween. Friendly sugar skulls and bright yellow marigolds play a big part in this celebration of life. The … [Read more...]