The mother of the bride faces up to the figure flaws she’ll be taking to her daughter’s wedding: wobbly neck, flabby arms, descending bustline . . . and more. Read more.
Barbara’s Riffs on Life
Gray Hairs. Wrinkles. And Kids Who Won’t Stop Growing Up
Peter’s in fourth grade now. My third grade boy is gone. Christina has grown an inch since Easter. My size 6 girl is gone. Read more.
At the Feet of Annie Dillard, Memoirist, Essayist, Observer of the Real
What draws me to author Annie Dillard — what makes me want to turn off the TV and grab one of her books — is her eagle-sharp eye for the world as it truly is. Read more.
Bouquets to Art 2017 — Seduced by Those Quirky, Charming Boxed Bouquets
I spent a glorious day at the Bouquets to Art 2017 exhibition in San Francisco, where several stunning boxed floral arrangements stole the show. Read more.
How Three World War II POWs Saved Each Other’s Lives
When World War II POWs returned home, many couldn’t talk about the brutality they’d seen. Decades later one finally tells his story to the world. Read more.
John Donne — A Love Affair With a Poet Long Dead
My college notes on the 17th-century poet John Donne were cautious and circumspect. My feelings fairly burst with yearning, spiritual and erotic. Read more.