“The love we give away is the only love we keep.” ~Elbert Hubbard Dear Universe, It’s Valentine’s Day, which means love is in the air even more today. Whether you are spoken for or single, who doesn’t love to receive a little something for St. Valentine’s? It can be a box of chocolates, flowers or a card, but letting someone …
Greatest Gifts
“It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.” ~Mother Teresa Dear Universe, It’s that time of year again. It’s the season to be jolly, with the sounds of fireplaces crackling and sleigh bells ringing. It’s the season to see snowflakes falling and reindeer dashing. It’s also the season of giving. Things can get pretty …
Infinite Inspiration
Dear Universe, Classes are winding down this week. While this was my busiest semester, it was one of my favorites so it’s been a little sad saying goodbye to my students. A funny thing has been happening, though. Without realizing, my students have given me a few parting gifts—the kind money can’t buy. The other day, a student sent me …
Treats, No Trick
“For it is in giving that we receive.” ~St. Francis of Assisi Dear Universe, On Tuesday, a student walked into class with a bowl of candy. He immediately approached me and offered some. Having the sweet tooth that I do, I gratefully accepted and took a mini-chocolate bar. “Take another one!” He insisted. “That’s okay. Thank you, though!” He remained …
Ode to Selfridges
“It is not down in any map; true places never are.” ~Herman Melville Dear Universe, Well, it’s official. I love Selfridges. (Don’t worry Big Ben, I still love you too.) The very first time I came to London in 2011 my mother introduced me to Selfridges. She explained I had to see it, had to go, had to spend quality …
Don’t Worry, Doll
Dear Universe, As much as I try not to be, I’m a worrier. I worry about the future—which is pretty understandable. Sometimes I worry about the present and what I’m doing in the now. And on particularly worrisome days, I worry about the past and how it’s effecting the present and future! It’s exhausting. Other times I worry about my …
It’s a Wrap
Dear Universe, I’m not a fan of wrapping. I’m not sure I know anyone who is. In theory, I like giving loved ones beautifully wrapped presents that look like a professional handled them. In reality, I don’t always have the patience or the time (often getting to it at the last minute). More often than not, it’s a gift bag …