Fostering a new renaissance through creativity, authenticity, spirituality, and art
Polly Castor 
I had to laugh, looking back on last year’s resolution, which –quoting a Calvin and Hobbes cartoon– was to “wing it.” As Dr. Phil would say, “How’s that working for you?” Believe me, I liked it a lot in one way– the freedom of it– but the result part? Not so much. Whenever in an … Read more
“In this new year, may you have a deep understanding of your true value and worth, an absolute faith in your unlimited potential, peace of mind in the midst of uncertainty, the confidence to let go when you need to, acceptance to replace your resistance, gratitude to open your heart, the strength to meet your … Read more
We don’t have swordfish that often but when we do, this is one way we enjoy having it. This recipe makes enough for four people. 1/2 stick organic butter, melted zest of one lemon 2 tablespoons (or up to 1/2 cup) fresh parsley, chopped 3/4 teaspoon Lemon Pepper 1 clove garlic, crushed 1/4 teaspoon sea … Read more
I enjoyed this long, detailed new novel by the author of the famous bestselling memoir, Eat, Pray, Love. Two-thirds to a quarter of the way through reading it, I thought I was going to give this book four stars since it was lagging a bit, but after finishing it, I felt it had pulled through … Read more
Another Blizzard Grocery store so crowded all carts are in use inside a buzz of people line up to buy firewood and hot chocolate; there is no bread on the shelves. Snow drifting in a blanketed hush heaps of glistening powder blindingly bright insulates lives; pristine and snug, quiet and still. Then with an overlay … Read more
When our kids are home I watch more movies. Some years I have seen a lot in the theaters over the holidays, but not this year. I was working a lot and made time to watch these streamed videos late in the evening with various combinations of family. I enjoyed all of these but only … Read more
I made these two abstract paintings over the holidays. They are both 18” x 24” and are done in acrylic. The top one is titled Colloquium, the bottom one is titled Bass Note.
Well, our son was supposed to return from Winter Camp at Crystal Lake tomorrow, but because of this snow storm (some say blizzard) on the east coast
Wow. I’ve finished five years on this daily blog. That’s 1,825 entries! Here’s an extensive list of best blog posts, which folks have found especially helpful.
I give this novel five stars. It is a modern cautionary tale in vein with Orwell’s 1984. Unfortunately, it has parts inappropriate for middle and high schoolers
James and I got married 24 years ago at lunchtime, so we took our two daughters out to a lovely brunch today at Bailey’s Backyard in Ridgefield to celebrate.
Outrageously, I got all these pottery books from my husband for Christmas. I’m looking forward to delving into them. Thank you, James!
It was another year I received only non-fiction for Christmas! Above is a lovely cookbook I was delighted to get from a Texas cousin, and the first book below
I made these two “soup and half sandwich” trays for my husband for Christmas. Both of these pieces represent progress for me technique-wise.
Happy Birthday Jesus! I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas!
