Columns

“Those who do not weep, do not see.” —Victor Hugo Stable marriages finance families; financial disputes disrupt. Approximately 43% of first marriages fail in America. As a widower and divorcee—now happily married—I know the extended pains of divorce can be just as disconcerting and perhaps...

The weekend after Thanksgiving I like to get my Christmas tree and put it outside in a bucket of water until I’m ready to bring it inside to decorate. One of my friends has the solution for the longest lasting tree with the most...

The holiday season is a time of joy, connection and celebration, but it can also bring stress, overwhelm and even loneliness. Practicing gratitude can help you navigate the emotional ups and downs of this time of year by fostering a sense of contentment and...

Holidays are here with busy schedules of social gatherings and celebrations. This time of year can make keeping your fitness routine and clean eating habits seem much more difficult. Even the most disciplined people can find it difficult to stick to their health and...

Once upon a time when our area was under water there were no parks or trails or trees or gardens. I'm thankful that our mountains rose from an ancient ocean so we could enjoy this beautiful place we call home.  I'm thankful for the Big-Leaf maples that shower me...

“Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone's life. Be the light that helps others see; it is what gives life its deepest significance.” —Roy T. Bennett, author I’ve begun preparing ingredients for a “thank you” dinner for our Volunteer Handymen, who...

With cooler weather and some rain, fall weather is here in the Santa Cruz Mountains. If you’re thinking about what plants you might want to add to your garden this planting season, California native plants are well suited to planting at this time of...

The Women’s Evolution Retreat was an enriching experience, one that not only inspired me, but also broadened my perspective on women’s inner power and transformative potential. This year’s lineup was a vibrant mix of leaders in personal growth, wellness, creativity and professional development—each leaving an...

From San Jose, Sally and her clownish boyfriend braved the twisties through San Lorenzo mountains with excess speed, then alighted at a Ben Lomond bar. Sally was drunk again, partying down at Henfling’s in less than a skirt with makeup to hide age. Flinging...

It’s beginning to look a lot like… Fall. The weather is perfect, the soil still warm and the storm door is opening for those gentle autumn rains that do so much good for our gardens and the forest. I stopped by Mountain Feed & Farm...