First Person Singular by Wendy Braitman

When to Look Up

Crossing a busy street
On a first date
Walking the dog
Praying
Watching the final season of Mad Men

Apple Announces Revolution by Jean Jullien

Modern Dictionary

image via boredpanda

How Important is the Right Tool?

Home repair is not my thing, so I own a basic toolkit, and I’m fine with it. Where I really expend time and energy is in the kitchen. There is high-end cookware that I dream about (like Le Creuset). But more and more, I reach for lightweight nonstick pans and even aluminum roasters that I buy in bulk at Costco (forgive me, environment) because they’re easy to maneuver and clean up. Do you have a surprising favorite tool?

Photo by Reverbere Studio

Can You Imagine Life Before Pizza?

September, 1944  New York Times

End of Week Zen

I’m working on it. Hope you are too. Happy weekend!

Illustration by Lisa Congdon

Making the Most of the Drought Years

Photo by Ciuco Gutierrez

What’s Your Favorite Sandwich?

Langers is a Los Angeles deli that makes what many think is the best pastrami sandwich in the world. I’m no expert, but I did grow up in New York City, the deli capital, and I would have to agree. Their rye bread is double baked and freshly sliced, and the meat is hand cut into thick, peppery slices. This gets my enthusiastic vote. What gets yours?

Deconstructed Reuben by David Schwen

Queen of the Blues

Billie Holiday would’ve been 100 today.

Who’s the Boss of Your Hair?

Sitting next to me at dinner this weekend, was an acquaintance with shoulder-length hair. She admired my cropped cut, and when I suggested she too could wear it short, the woman quietly admitted that her husband likes it long. On the inside I was cheering, really glad to be single.

Illustration by Dan May

Here’s to Grace

I like the metaphor of this springtime holiday weekend, when the impossible becomes possible. And there’s a lot more light. Wishing that for all of you.

Ombre eggs