Two pairs of rhinestone-studded flip-flops. Sequin-trimmed tank tops. Capri pants. Leggings. Headbands. Jewelry. Sunglasses. A beaded shawl.
“You can’t take all this stuff,” I say to my nine-year-old daughter Molly.
“Mom, just because you have no sense of fashion-”
“Oh my God, there’s more?” I say, as I spot a diary, Nancy Drew mysteries, sketchbooks, and a stuffed bear with multiple outfits piled by her bedroom door. “I told you: pajamas, underwear, toothbrush.” (more…)

The best assignment I ever received in any course of study was in a graduate class in the Alexander Technique where we were instructed to brush our teeth at home only with our less dominant hand until it became second nature. (more…)

I have a little dirty secret that isn’t news to people who know me, and now you’ll be in on it, too: I drive an SUV. Yes, with all the sources of environmental damage from polluting corporations to governmental policies and all the finger-pointing happening as global temperatures soar to record highs, I find my hand turning to point at myself as well. (more…)

As a family of four, we recently discovered the benefits of having a car with a third row of seats. I am a big believer in carpooling, and living in Los Angeles with two small children at different schools, it just makes sense. Not only is carpooling better for the environment, it is a more efficient use of time, and it builds community. (more…)