Living Deeply Our New Life...

Today in Church I was overcome with the fruition of what several people tried to get me to understand six years ago. When someone you love who has had such an impact on your life is suddenly gone, you must learn to live a new kind of normal. Or as close to whatever normal could possibly be in my world.

I Thought Of You Today...And Smiled....

I was just going about my day doing some of the things I tend to do in my world when suddenly thoughts of you came flooding into my mind. And I smiled.

Huffing and Puffing All The Way To The Bank...

Here is a small confession...I have never visited The Huffington Post let alone read anything reported therein. But Arianna must have done something right, because AOL has just paid this woman beaucoup bucks  for her website.

Rock Solid...

"What is that in your hand?" This? It's my rock.

Ashes Remind Me To Clean Out The Dust...

Today is Ash Wednesday. As I received my ashes this morning, I was reminded once again why I love my faith so very much and why the rich Catholic traditions mean so much to me.

Oh Maureen...I Wish You Would Have Called...

Oh, the inhumanity of it all. It's like my lottery numbers came in and the state said, "Oh, sorry, we know you have always wanted this, but your ticket was from last week. You seem to be a day late and a dollar short. So sorry - you are the weakest link. Good bye!"

I Dream In Cashmere...

I have decided cashmere is one of the most luxurious feelings in the world. The caress of a fabric soft as an angel's wings against my skin is like heaven on earth; I could wear it every single day for the rest of my life with no shame or regret.

Never Underestimate The Power Of A Great Shoe...

I got the look the other day. The "just how many pairs of shoes does one person need" look. The "why do you need so many pairs of black shoes" stare. What can I say? One pair of shoes does not a wardrobe make.

The King Gets His Due...

The Academy Awards show and all the glitz that accompanies it has come and gone. Generally I do not get drawn into all the pomp and circumstance, but this year I was actually hopeful a true master of his craft would receive the recognition long overdue. I am pleased to relay I was not disappointed.

Servant Song...

One of the many aspects I love about my faith is the beautiful music we worship to. And there are a multitude of these hymns and lyrical prayers I can associate with different parts of my life. One of my favorites was really on my mind today.

The Power of Positive Energy...

Well kiddies, vacation has officially come to an end. While the tan is lingering I have returned to the daily grind, hit the books, and by now it feels like I never went away. Does that ever happen to you? Luckily, I have people with positive energy in my life.

The Square On The Circle...

One of the wonderful aspects of vacationing on Lido Key has to be St.Armand's Circle. For this eccentric lover of life, a glorious outdoor shopping district of four circles connecting magnificent shops with fine dining equals an amazing people-watching experience.

Life Is A Beach...

Welcome to beautiful Lido Key in sunny Florida! And yes, it really is this incredible.

Pack Your Bags! We're On Our Way!

Okay! Get those bags packed! We're just about ready to hit the road!

A Warm Hug And Forgiveness...

Yes, this was a most productive day. But I really need a hug.

Love, Love, Love...

Time for another confession...if there is a Valentine's Day Scrooge, I am sure yours truly is his off-spring.

Oh, The Places You'll Go...

My favorite book from Dr. Seuss advises, "You have brains in your head and feet in your shoes ~ You can steer yourself any direction you choose.You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go."* Well, I know what I know and I know I don't need to be driven...I'm within walking distance of crazy.

It Can't Be Me...

I can't believe I am even admitting this, but admitting it is the first step to recovery. After chaperoning last night's Middle School dance either one of two things are happening: a) I am getting old, or b) we really need to reign some of these young girls in.

And For Your Penance...

Every day I grow more and more concerned how close we are to living Pixar's movie WALL-E. Loved the movie, terrified of the message.

If You're Gonna Dream, Go Big Or Go Home...

I enjoy reading The New York Times and the financial advice on msn.com. This evening I read a story that made me smile in spite of myself.

They Just Don't Make 'Em Like They Used To...

Oh, happy day! The special Hollywood edition of Vanity Fair was delivered today and I could not wait to delve in. Not for any of the newbies of today who all look alike, but for the timeless beauty of days gone by.

Unpatriotic Seems A Bit Harsh...

Even those of us who are sports challenged neophytes and only watch the Superbowl for the commercials and food no doubt witnessed the creative rendition of Christina's Star Spangled Banner. And if you missed it last evening - no worries - it has been replayed over the internet, every news station, and every radio broadcast all day.

"Life Is What Happens...

...while you're busy making other plans" so said the late, great, phenomenal John Lennon. Don't I know it.

All That Is Old Is New Again...

I am a tremendous fan of "Mad Men". I love the fashion from this time period and how everyone dressed to go everywhere. However, watching Betty Draper has me convinced those beautiful dresses adorned some pent-up aggression and copious amounts of frustration. But back to those clothes...

Snow's Soft Embrace...

Today I was among the throng of folks on the receiving end of a snow storm, recalling the childhood anticipation of a possible school closing and a day off. However, most adults do not get snow days so I packed my heels, donned my "safe shoes" and began my journey to the office.