No one man can, for any considerable time, wear one face to himself, and another to the multitude, without finally getting bewildered as to which is the true one. – Nathaniel Hawthorne When I’m around someone who resonates with authenticity – it’s often because their words and actions match but that’s not my only observation. … More Apples & Authenticity
It was still dark when I got out of bed after a restless night with a busy mind, feeling the loss of siblings and parents whose anniversaries seem to culminate at this time of year. I made myself a cup of tea and went outside to watch the sun say her good morning hellos. Broken … More Hellos and Goodbyes
Last week a former client gave me a beautiful gift. To most anyone’s eyes it probably looks like a simple basket, but she knew better. After spending arduous days cleaning out her mother-in-law’s house, she kept returning to a pile of baskets. Well-worn and used with a patina earned over time, carrying household objects, fruit, … More A-Tisket, A-Tasket
Michelle Oram inspires me to tidy up, but not in the condemning, “hustle up and get ‘er done” kind of way. Michelle’s approach, told in her fabulous blog series, “Clutter Tales” is sensible, do-able and thoughtful. And no less effective. In this week’s podcast, Michelle shares her strategy for attacking clutter by category in a … More Episode 81: “Clutter Tales” with Michelle Oram
Last week we learned that one of hubster Paul’s cousins – who was also named Paul – passed away. His mother was Paul’s father’s sister…and wait for it…his father was Paul’s mother’s brother. A geneticist would no doubt enlighten me about the quirky double-dose of DNA but in a moment of melancholy yesterday, my heart … More A Table with Nine Lives?
Holiday time brings a few friendly ghosts forward. I welcome them. No…not like the story of the “Disappearing Girl” that I shared recently. The rush of November and December will invariably stir up melancholy moments where I receive – gladly – glimpses of my dad. Tiny whispers as I hear myself think in ways he … More A Hug in Four Parts
Hello there! As we focus on gratitude in the month of November here at Heart of the Matter, let me say this: I’m grateful to you for reading and allowing me the privilege of sharing a very personal family story. Thank you so much for joining me for the last two installments of the “Disappearing … More The Disappearing Girl – Part III
I don’t know what it is about late summer blooms, or the sharpness in the sky – the contrast of light and dark. It captivates my attention, especially this time of year when I know the phrase “burning daylight” is more applicable than ever. I’ve noticed this over the past three years. As much as … More Love, Nature, Family
I had a fantastic dream two nights ago – so much so that it’s turned into a post. 😉 Almost an auto-pilot-post. I can usually discern the trigger for a dream that’s detailed – so detailed that it sparkles with definition. No cloudy images or subtlety. This particular dream? I can see the connecting threads and it … More Music, Memories, Motivation
I hope Grandma Lily would approve… … More Lily Windows
The Heart of the Matter 