The sunniest spot on my dining room window seat is currently occupied by a geranium—Pelargonium x hortorum–that is struggling to come to terms with the winter light. By the time it truly acclimates, it will probably be March—almost time to take it outdoors to soak up the direct sunshine it craves. In the meantime, it … Read more
My childhood pediatrician, Dr. S., was a colleague of my father’s, a close family friend, and a man who loved Christmas. In fact, he loved Christmas so much that he lived it year round, through his hobby of crafting lavish tree ornaments. When I knew him, he had long since made enough to cover his … Read more
It is currently snowing outside. Each big, fat flake that hurls from the sky lands with a loud accusation: “You haven’t planted all your bulbs.” It is true, and while I could make all kinds of perfectly valid excuses, I won’t do it. I rest secure in the knowledge that this first snow is just … Read more
The gardening season at my house is ending as it began, with bright blue and white crocuses dotting the beds. As in the spring, they are poking bravely through the garden rubble that I haven’t yet had time to clean up. People who see them think that climate change has fooled the spring crocuses into … Read more
Some people love Atlantic City, New Jersey, that enduring combination of gambling mecca and seaside resort. It is a place where breathtaking Atlantic coast scenery is locked in a pitched battle for tourist attention with artificial environments designed to shut out the outside world. Atlantic City is a paradox with hotel rooms. I was on … Read more
