There, I Said It!
Why is there a Poodle in the Bathroom?
Growing up in New York City in the 1960s, a poodle lived in our bathroom. Pink, with black eyes and a white bow permanently sewn to its head, it sat atop the back of the toilet tank, beady eyes watching our family during the most intimate of moments. By now you’ve...
Smartphone Etiquette – Stop Looking at Your Damn Phone
It has finally happened. I was at dinner with friends and within five minutes of being seated, we were all looking down at our smartphones—Googling, Facebooking, and God only knows what else. Nomo what? Nomophobia (fear of being without your mobile phone—no...
Death & New Orleans
A few weeks ago, I was in New Orleans to celebrate a friend's birthday. The city seemed to be full of funereal fun. Seriously. The tourist shops were stocked with voodoo dolls, death masks, and skeletons. Everywhere you turned there were signs of decadent decay. Above...
Is Your Refrigerator A Mess?
I wish my refrigerator was spanking new. Perfectly clean with all my favorite foods lined up on shelves that sparkled. Labels facing front so that you can read them. Tupperware neatly stacked. No crumbs or wet spots anywhere. A little OCD? Yes, I’m neat, but not a...
Don't Save it for Good
Years ago, a wise family friend shared with me the phrase, save it for good. I wasn't quite sure what she meant. But I knew from the tone of her voice and facial expression, that saving it for good was not a great idea. Life is short Perhaps there are clothes hanging...
Does Anyone Know a Good Handyman?
Gee, it's awfully hard to find a handyman or handywoman these days. Someone affordable, who can provide electrical, carpentry and plumbing services. I’ve searched, asked neighbors and friends. No one seems to have a recommendation. How can that be? Meanwhile, doctors,...
Wouldn't You Really Rather … ?
I finally bought a new car. It nearly killed me. I know that for many people purchasing a new car is a thrill, but to me, it’s a journey to the land of confusion. Too many models….too many choices. And to be honest, if you haven’t guessed it by now, I’m not a car...
Summer Movies: Or How to Survive Phoenix in July
Everyone knows Phoenix is hot in the summer. That's when most Phoenicians plan their vacations. But for those who stay and want to leave the house in the afternoon, there's the air-conditioned restaurant, a trip to the supermarket, or a walk through a shopping mall....
And the Password is …
In this age of the Internet, I have more passwords then I can possibly remember. Six pages to be precise. Many of the new accounts came with the publication of my debut novel, The Intersect. Goodreads, Kindle, Apple ibooks and WordPress—to name but a few. The rest are...