First Person Singular | September 2018

And on the bright side…

September 28, 2018 ⋅ 6 comments

From the freezer, I retrieved a container of beef stew (recipe by Marcella Hazan) and dinner felt like a big hug.

What went well for you this week?

American Hero

September 27, 2018 ⋅ 10 comments

I feel such gratitude for the courage of Christine Blasey Ford. And, it’s a very sad day in America. My heart is heavy. How are you making sense of it all?

Illustration by Wendy MacNaughton

We’ve Got to Get This Right

September 26, 2018 ⋅ 4 comments

The Anita Hill hearings are seared into my memory. This can’t happen again. Not in 2018.

One of a series of projections by artist Robin Bell onto the courthouse in D.C. where Brett Kavanaugh works.

Happy National Register to Vote Day

September 25, 2018 ⋅ 2 comments

41 days till the U.S. midterm elections. Now, more than ever: #VoteVoteVote

Illustration by Lisa Congdon

This evening while walking my dog, I felt a hint of autumn in the air. Granted, in Los Angeles, autumn weather can be in the 70’s. But still, it was noticeable, and for the first time in months, I had a fleeting thought about scarves, sweaters and shoewear other than sandals. What’s it like where you live?

Illustration by Toothpaste for dinner

What Are You Reading?

September 21, 2018 ⋅ 6 comments

And how are you reading it?

Illustration by Tom Gauld

Guilt Trip

September 20, 2018 ⋅ 2 comments

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