On a scorching 101-degree Friday in the Coachella Valley, I opted for a solo desert hike and bike ride during the hottest part of the day, seeking a challenge and a sense of renewal. Despite my phone overheating and a … Read More
While wandering through Copenhagen, my family and I discovered Iris Galerie—a boutique that transforms the human eye into stunning, high-resolution art. As someone who lost an eye over 65 years ago, seeing my own iris captured so vividly was deeply … Read More
During my recent travels through the Netherlands and Denmark, I was captivated by the local tradition of savoring raw herring, a delicacy that evoked memories of my own experiences using herring as bait while salmon fishing in Puget Sound. This … Read More
During my recent visit to Amsterdam, I was struck by how bicycles are integral to daily life—practical, unpretentious, and everywhere. Among the sea of utilitarian bikes, I discovered the enchanting “flower bikes” crafted by Warren Gregory, whose vibrant creations began … Read More
I reflect on my visit to a historic bank vault in Laurel, Mississippi, where I was struck by the imposing craftsmanship and solidity of early 20th-century security. Walking through this massive steel vault, I felt transported to an era when … Read More
As I wrapped myself in the quilt made entirely from my saved T-shirts, each square brought back vivid memories—from concerts attended and marathons run, to places visited and life milestones celebrated. This quilt isn’t just a blanket; it’s a vibrant … Read More
I never imagined that a busted sewer line in my neighborhood would lead to unexpected friendship and a deeper respect for the infrastructure we take for granted. Watching the crew work knee-deep in sludge, I saw the human side of … Read More
Imagine my surprise upon discovering $800,000 worth of beer stocked in the aisles of my local Ralph’s grocery store, ready for the Coachella Music Festival. This astonishing sight led me to reflect on our society’s spending priorities, especially when comparing … Read More
I share my fascination with turtles, stemming from their symbolic meanings of longevity, wisdom, and protection across various cultures. I discuss the life lessons they embody, such as perseverance, resilience, and the importance of taking risks. Embracing what I call … Read More
After watching Trump’s troubling treatment of Ukraine’s President Zelensky, I couldn’t help but see parallels to Neville Chamberlain’s failed appeasement of Hitler at Munich. I argue that history clearly shows how concessions to aggressive dictators only lead to greater conflict, … Read More
