We were out in Oregon last week visiting our daughter, Emily, who apparently prefers breathtaking landscapes, super-friendly people, and reasonable rents over whatever the opposite of all that is that we offer here in Massachusetts. We spent some time in Portland where she lives, but also traveled to Bend, Oregon, which is about three hours southeast. Bend is in a beautiful desert location, and we took full advantage one day by hiking at nearby Smith Rock State Park. We did the Misery Ridge Trail Loop which, despite its well-earned name, […] Click to read more…

(Listen to this post, here.) I am what is known in the scientific community as, “a really good sleeper.”  I can fall asleep easily. Anywhere, anytime.  Trains and buses? No problem.  Mid-day naps? My specialty.  My most famous sleep-centric “accomplishment” was falling asleep in between my wife’s contractions as she was giving birth to our first child (don’t look at me like that, it had been a long day).  The secret to easy sleep is not to “try and fall asleep.” In fact, trying to do anything when going to sleep will only keep you awake. […] Click to read more…

(Listen to this post, here.) We have a new refrigerator. Lest you think this was a hasty decision, let me just say that we bought the old one the year my son Evan was born. He turned 24 this week. And this new one, I must say, is (literally) quite cool. Side-by-side doors, whisper-quiet motor, and a stainless steel, “smudge-proof” exterior. And, as any self-respecting, 21st century refrigerator must have, a water and ice dispenser on the outside. Like I said, cool. That is, until earlier this week when our […] Click to read more…