Learning from History
“The only thing we learn from history is that we learn nothing from history” said the interviewer in February 1962, quoting Hegel …
Feeling Awe
AWE: the New Science of Everyday Wonder by Dachar Keltner. is the book I bought after meeting a woman on our plane …
Chautauqua 2024
Convergence is a good word to describe what Chautauqua means to me. It’s a place that brings together all of my main …
David Smith, Sculptor
When Steve and I gave our beloved son the name David, we were unaware of a prominent American sculptor named David Smith. It wasn’t until the …
Gratitude at 80
Turning 80 on March 19 treated me to a week of celebrations with family and friends that made me feel very grateful …
Marjo-Martha Week
Marjo van Patten, my friend of almost 75 years, flew here from Ohio on January 18 for what has become her annual …
A Good Beginning
This is the year I turn 80 and it’s off to a great start! The first eight days brimmed with friends, fitness, …
Friends Week in DC
“Friends Week” began when Marjo van Patten, my friend from childhood who lives in Ohio, expressed a desire to see the American …
Musical Encounters
Playing the piano most days in the Dornoch Cathedral, singing in the choir on Sundays, and attending local concerts brings me much …
Lake Lure Reunion
Eight Smiths, four Eidsons and two Collinses gathered at Jay and Maxann’s house on Lake Lure NC for a reunion from June …