“Why are so many lights on?” Dan used to ask when we were new to each other’s living habits.  “Because I can’t see a thing,” I would answer.  My typical response to winter nights was to turn on every light that I could get my hands on . . . starting at 4pm.  Even mounting electric bills couldn’t curb my craving for brightly lit rooms. (more…)

I have a bad back.  Well . . . actually, I have a good back, it just happens to ‘blow out’ on an annual basis.  I’m still not sure when or how to anticipate an episode.  Is it related to weather, stress, how well I stretched that day?  There do not seem to be any signs of impending incapacity — I’m blind-sided every time. (more…)

Last fall, the Metropolitan opera staged its Italian classic “Tosca” with a totally new set and new costumes — a new concept.  This was after decades of using the tried and true ‘Zefferelli’ design.  How was it received?  On opening night, the audience booed the production.  Critics were . . . well, critical.  My father, a lifelong opera fan, asked with a sigh, “Why did they have to go and mess with perfection?” (more…)

My 17 year old daughter, Elizabeth, has begun the college application process (yikes!).  Her first assignment from her guidance counselor was to fill out an extremely extensive life review questionnaire.  The question that really caught my eye asked, “What is the most significant event in your life to date and how has it affected your development?” (more…)

Every year I wrestle with my ‘weary-winter syndrome’.   Even though I’ve had nearly 30 years of northern winters, my native Texas bones long for warmth and light.  Like a honking Canadian goose, I have the urge to fly south for the winter.  I know that more daylight is slowly returning, but it just ain’t returnin’ fast enough up north (if ya know what I mean). (more…)