Big loud booms. Crackles from the skies and pretty colors falling from the stars. That’s what makes an Independence Day celebration, but what makes you an American? Is it the way you honor the flag, or the clothes you wear, or is it the get-togethers you have with family? In the new book, “I Am
As your friendly neighborhood lexicographer approaches another collection of weird words for Webb, Abraham Verghese’s novel “The Covenant of Water” stands at #5 on the New York Times bestseller list. Sales have been aided by the sterling success of Verghese’s earlier “Cutting for Stone,” which spent more than two years on the NYT roster —
It was July 22nd, and hotter than you could imagine. The day of my motorcycle test. What was I thinking about booking the test in mid-summer? I hate the heat. The heat plus my nerves made a recipe for disaster that day, but I made it! Let me tell you about it. I remember that
When I saw David Koepp’s name in the closing credits of the new Indiana Jones film, that explained a lot. In particular, it explained why my wife and I loved this movie — especially the final half-hour, which is absolutely spot-on. Koepp is the veteran screenwriter whose many blockbusters have netted $3.2 billion. These include
ARIES – Mar 21–Apr 20 Aries, there are tips and tricks to learn through observation of others, particularly if those people are doing something with style. Keep your eyes peeled for inspiration. TAURUS – Apr 21–May 21 Taurus, let other people know what you are feeling by wearing your heart on your sleeve a little
Now when you first think “travel outfit,” you may be thinking of what to pack, as in a vacation wardrobe. Sure, it’s preferable to spend time deliberating on the best summer dress for vacay cocktails or a new flattering swimsuit to wear on the beach because those are the fun parts, the reason for traveling
If you’ve ever tried to debate your faith with a skeptic, then you know they can be very skillful at arguing against the existence of God and the authority and reliability of the Bible. In full disclosure, their arguments are generally valid. I know that because I tend to be very skeptical myself, so I’m
Do I apologize now for missing certain dates, or just wait till the end of the year to do so? Good grief. First, Mother’s Day, then Father’s Day. It’s scary how fast time goes. It doesn’t help that I write a week ahead, plus I have a one-track mind lately. It was perfect that I
Pets are beloved members of the family. Pets provide unconditional love and companionship to their owners. When a pet goes missing, it can be devastating for their owners, who want to bring their companion animals home to safety as soon as possible. Lost Pet Research & Recovery and PurringPal indicate at least 14 percent of
For many years, folks have wondered what might happen if an asteroid ever struck the earth. But with Wes Anderson’s “Asteroid City,” there’s nothing to fear: The film doesn’t come anywhere near this planet. In fact, it’s such a weird, incomprehensible movie that for only the second or third time in 50 years of reviewing,
Goodbyes are never easy. Even if it’s just “So long!” or “See ya later,” and there’ll be other times together, your mind lingers on the fun you’ve just had. Call you tomorrow, hurry back, don’t be a stranger, the sting is minimal. But “The Book of Pet Love & Loss” by Sara Bader may help
Sometimes, it takes a minute to settle into the season and figure out its themes and trends. In my younger and more opinionated years, I’d have set up my style for the season ahead of schedule, but nowadays, I take a “wait and see” approach to seasonal aesthetics. With the summer solstice behind us, here’s
