First Person Singular by Wendy Braitman

Name Your Favorite Carb

This is like Sophie’s Choice. I’m wavering between grilled corn on the cob and french fries.

Painting by Michael Dumontier and Neil Farber

Have You Practiced Patience (at least once) Today?

Illustration by André Beato

Bouquet of Citrus

A florist friend of mine gave me a great tip about a cost effective alternative to flowers. He told me to fill a glass vase with lemons or limes, and it has since become a permanent fixture on my dining room table. The citrus add freshness and color, and you never have to change the water.

Photo by Brittany Wright

The Road Less Traveled

My stalwart brother was visiting this weekend, and we had an intimate conversation about how different our lives have been. His has been comfortably linear – a good job, a well-appointed home, a devoted long-term spouse. When I asked him how this happened, he replied, “I always followed the rules and did what I was supposed to do.” On occasion, I’ve felt envy of his path. And I wouldn’t be surprised if he sometimes felt the same of mine. Isn’t that’s how it goes?

Comic by Wes Hotchkiss

What Have You Learned Today?

With the help of a fun iPhone app, I’m finally learning Spanish.

Illustration by Lisa Congdon

I’ll Really Miss this FLOTUS

Living in a Drought on Earth Day

Each morning as consciousness begins to seep in, I mouth a few moments of gratitude, inventorying the elemental things I take for granted. The air in my lungs, sturdy muscles in my legs, a healthy heart, and these days I include a thanks for water flowing from the faucet.

Earth by Jean-Michel Basquiat

Serious Comfort Food

Nothing lifts me up like a good grilled cheese sandwich or a bowl of mac & cheese (especially on date night). Only until I saw this, did I even imagine combining the two. I feel better already.

Resilient Spirit

The next time I feel a pity party coming on, I’m going to look at photos from the Boston Marathon and read stories of the bombing survivors who crossed the finish line. I’m humbled and inspired.

Photo from the Boston Globe

Breaking the Habit

Illustration by Ella Frances Sanders