First Person Singular by Wendy Braitman

Guilt Trip

The annual Jewish Day of Atonement has just passed and it’s rife with opportunities for guilt. This year, my fast didn’t last. I snuck out of synagogue late afternoon (rather than waiting till after sunset), walked to a friend’s house who lives nearby, and then all bets were off. But despite the lapse, I had a meaningful experience. And I’m relieved the next one is a full year away. 

Illustration by Liana Finck

Carb Dreams

As I enter a day of fasting and repentance, I’ll be spending at least a little time thinking about eating fries.

Wood art by Camp Bosworth

Setting Priorities

Illustration by Marc Johns

Enough of Not Enough-ism

Over the course of a long dating life, I’ve heard a few of these “pitfalls” as an explanation for why I don’t have a husband. #Basta

New Yorker cartoon by Liana Finck

The Gifts of Summer

This morning at 6:15, it was so dark outside, I thought my clock must be wrong. There are still good tomatoes at the Farmer’s Market, but I feel the days of summer slipping away. 

Heirlooms by Jeremy Miranda

Hot Button Issues

For about a year now, I’ve been trying to find my way back to an acquaintance with whom I have political disagreements. I’ve known her for more than a decade and our leanings were never an issue before the 2016 presidential election. We had found a way to peacefully coexist. But all that got ruptured. And now, I don’t know how to break the ice. Suggestions?

Photo by Adam Hillman

Party like it’s 5779

As we head into the Jewish High Holidays, I’ve just pulled a batch of “Rugelach” from the oven in the hopes of ushering in a sweet year ahead. I’ll be back at FPS in a few days.

End of Week Zen

Don’t forget to have some fun this weekend!

365 quotes 2018 from Design Crush

Do You Paint?

Over the weekend, I ran into my Tesla-driving neighbor who was in the middle of painting his bathroom. I wondered why he hadn’t hired someone to do the work. But maybe, this was a fun way for him to spend a Sunday.

Illustration by Serge Bloch

Nirvana

Chocolate chip cookies have been an enduring passion of mine, both eating and baking them. I’m very select. For years, my go-to recipe has been from Cooks Illustrated. I keep a stockpile of frozen dough in my freezer to whip up for last-minute dinner invites. But after reading an article by the renowned cook, Dorie Greenspan, I’m tempted to give her suggested recipe a try. 

Photo by Tom Lowe