The revelation of Bruce (ahem, Caitlyn) Jenner was obviously an extreme example of a profound transformation in life. He had resoundingly closed a chapter in his life and embarked into unchartered waters. But how does he go about changing his rituals and habits in search of creating a new image for himself (uh, herself)? This […]

Exemplary greatness fascinates me.  More specifically, the iconic or legendary type that demands an unrelenting commitment to sustainable growth and challenge in life. What drives one to continue to aspire higher and stoke the fire? There are multiple examples of inspiration: celebrities championing humanitarian efforts in third world countries like Africa; Bill Gates spending extraordinary […]

Nathan had seen them all, every one of those pathetic quotes about making the most of each day. Blah, blah, blah…insufferable nonsense. He had read every self-help book on the market, blabbing on and on about living in the moment, as if you were to die tomorrow. Whatever. For months, even years, he would have […]

*On my way to Firenze so reposting my sentiment on this magical city!* The moment I stepped off the train, I knew this experience would be profoundly special.  It was 1995 and I remember it distinctly, strolling on the platform toward the busy Stazione and observing all the chaos in panoramic view.  Tourists were running, […]

*Random post inspired by an army of ants in my kitchen* The army marches in single file, lockstep in perfect synchronicity.  Their single purpose in life gives them intense focus.  From day one, they never question the meaning of their existence but rather dutifully perform their work.  They are hunters, pure and simple.  Their sole […]

*Alternative title: “Brown is the New Green” as local water districts are imploring residents to ‘let your water thirsty lawn go brown’ over the summer (essentially, die a slow death) and then replace with drought tolerant landscaping in October. The fragility of the oil markets always led me to believe oil was our most precious […]

Imagine if you had inherited an infinite treasure dated 500 years old.  A wealth of art revered across the world.  Your primary purpose as care keeper of these prized possessions is to channel all this global admiration into a beautiful experience for the endless barrage of fervent tourists that descend year round to view these […]

Roma o morte. {Rome or death}. I remember discovering these three words inscribed on a glorious statue of Garibaldi overlooking il Gianicolo {The Janiculum} years ago, a hillside offering a spectacular vista of all of Rome, and stood stunned in the summer heat, in awe of the power and passion behind these words. Would I […]

To fully experience all the magic of Italy is an assault on all your senses.  There are so many wonderful flavors, chimes and colors that enrapture you as you walk the majestic cobblestone streets.  You feel the rich history and the magnitude of centuries of existence as the prominent world leader in art and culture […]