First Person Singular by Wendy Braitman

Primary Rage

photo @upso

Spring’s Coming!

Illustration by Sparrows

Remembering to Dance

Ballet class is when I notice it the most. I’m concentrating so hard on getting the placement right, my foot pointed and staying on balance, that I forget to dance. At the studio, there’s a talented Ukrainian pianist who accompanies our class and if ever there’s hope of jolting me out of my head into the present moment, it’s his luscious music.

Image from designcrush

The Art of Dressing Down

This past weekend, my chic friends were visiting from San Francisco. We’ve known each other for decades and we’re like family in the best of ways. He’s an architect, and she’s a clothing designer. They’ve taught me a lot about style. But after years in Los Angeles, my wardrobe has gotten very relaxed, with a closet jammed full of jeans and tees. I tried to step it up when they were in town. By the end of our weekend together, I’d happily swapped out my nice clothes for flip flops and sweats.

Photo from Moos Tang

Button Pushing

Illustration by Marc Johns

What Are You Ready To Change?

Yesterday, I posted about my big career change. It was a circuitous journey, and at the beginning, I was skeptical and scared. Could I really do this? Step by step, I inched forward. So, what’s calling out to you for change?

Change is Now by Jennifer Grimyser

Meet the New Career Change Coach

Here’s my exciting news. I’ve recently become a Certified Professional Career Coach, guiding people who are looking for more fun, meaning and satisfaction from their work. It’s been an exhilarating journey, and proof positive that career reinvention is possible at any age. Check out my new website (with me and Rose on the home page). If you know of anyone at a career crossroads who might be curious about the benefits of coaching, please send them to loveyournextcareer. One of the perks of my job – I’ll continue to hang out with all of you at FPS.

It’s International Women’s Day!

The first observance was held in New York on March 8, 1909. It was organized by the Socialist Party of America in honor of the working woman. I’ll drink to that!

Illustration by Jean Jullien

Downton Abbey Finale, SPOILER ALERT

DO NOT READ ON if you haven’t seen the finale (and care). I was late to the Downton Abbey fan club. The series ran for 3 seasons before I relented and binge watched 24 episodes over 2 days. And then I was hooked and could barely wait each week to return to the opulent settings, gorgeous clothes, familiar faces and story lines. It was the equivalent of comfort food. There’s a great piece in New York magazine about why this series was so popular. The last few years, I grew tired of it, but still never missed a show. Here’s my gripe about the finale – nearly every major character ends up married or clearly on their way, with this musty message that it’s the only path to happiness. Oh, please….

Rebel with an Unwashed Blender

As I write this, I have some dirty dishes in the sink. They’re from a smoothie I made a few hours ago. As a treat for a late Friday afternoon, I didn’t take care of them right away like I usually do. In my family, it was not permissible to leave behind an unwashed cup or plate. And when I allow myself the luxury to just walk away, it feels like a release. Happy weekend, friends.

Photo of street art by Finn O’Hara