First Person Singular by Wendy Braitman

Tom Wolfe, RIP

Tom Wolfe had such a prolific career. His many books–ranging from Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test to Bonfire of the Vanities–dominated the national conversation. Wolfe sat at the typewriter every day in one of his elegant outfits with a quota of 10 pages, whether it took him 3 hours or 12. William F. Buckley described his talent: “He is probably the most skillful writer in America — I mean by that he can do more things with words than anyone else.” Read his obit here –

Good Old Days

This cartoon made me laugh. It’s by Emma Hunsinger for The New Yorker 

Appreciation Day

My glamorous mother taught me how to stand up for myself and others. Here’s to Claire! For what are you grateful with your Mom?

Kurt Vonnegut’s Spring

I came of age reading Kurt Vonnegut, and I inhaled his books. This text is from one I hadn’t heard of – Palm Sunday: An Autobiographical Collage. And though Los Angeles probably doesn’t count, his description of the seasons is perfect.

Hump Day

Illustration by Jean Jullien

Pity Party

Last week, I was cheerfully walking Rose, and was stopped in my tracks by a sign on the locked up gate of my beloved car mechanic. RELOCATING. CALL FOR DETAILS.  My heart sank. The garage, suddenly h0llowed out, had been a family operation for decades. Everyone loved Norm and his two sons. Living in such close proximity to a trusted mechanic was one of the most comforting pleasures of the neighborhood. I’ve spoken to Norm twice in the last few days. And he assures me they will relocate, but won’t tell me when or where. I offered to help them move. I’m in mourning.

Street Art by Myth

The Word on Kanye

Given the barrage of offensive news stories, I haven’t focused much on Kanye West. But today, I read Ta-nehisi Coates’ gorgeously-written, personal essay, I’m Not Black, I’m Kanye which gives so much context. Please don’t miss it! And let me know what you think.

Sleepover

My dog Rose’s best friend Izzy is spending a long weekend with us. Izzy’s as sweet as can be, though a little anxious. He likes being cozy under the covers and is a real bed hog. We’re having fun. 

Plate Envy

I want this porcelain dish designed by Jean Jullien

Giving Fear a Bear Hug

Illustration from an upcoming book by Lisa Congdon about finding your creative voice.