Bearing Witness

Thirty-five years ago today, my mom passed away—most of my life lived without her. Sitting on my Tommy Bahama beach chair on my favorite beach close to home, I’m thinking about her, what her life would have been, my life and everyone’s life that she touched, had she lived to old age.

The one thing I've learned and experienced living on this island in the middle of the Pacific is how small each of us in the universe. The majesty of the grass-covered West Maui mountains, the expanse of the ocean, the density and abundance of vegetation all remind us of our insignificance.

Part II: Strawberry Papaya or Pink Lady?

Girls' lunch at Bergdorf Goodman

Looking for "Strawberry Payapya" Part I? Click here.

Walking into Bergdorf Goodman after so many years was a girl’s fantasy come true. The beautifully appointed store was like an art gallery of all things fashion and beauty. In every department, the attention to detail in the displays, the merchandising, the svelte, perfectly groomed sales staff, spoke of quality and luxury.

In addition to the restaurant, the store’s top floor houses a children's department, housewares, antiques and estate jewelry. The elegant hostess invited us to have a drink of champagne at the bar or have a look around, as our table was not quite ready. We waltzed over to the estate jewelry. A handsome older customer pointed out a pair of vintage opalescent and rose-gold earrings priced at the equivalent of a new Mercedes and asked me, “Are these not the sweetest, most darling little earrings you’ve ever seen? Are you buying them?”

Part I: Strawberry Papaya or Pink Lady?

The Plaza New York

Growing up in Eastern Canada, I considered autumn one of the most beautiful times of the year. Trees with leaves turning shades of red, amber and gold lining the city streets. The crisp air and people walking at a slightly brisker pace, clad in shades of grey, camel and black, with cashmere scarves wrapped tightly around their necks. The food shops filled to the brim with displays of all things fall: pumpkins, gourds, pears, pomegranates and apples. The fond memory of climbing trees at our favorite orchard to pick MacIntosh apples to take home for baking pies.

Despite my love affair with the magical island of Maui, there are days when I miss those simple familiar fall rituals. When I lived in Canada, I used to start my day with a strong cup of coffee and a crisp apple cut into wedges. Since moving to Maui, I've made a steady diet of strawberry papaya for breakfast. Considered to be the sweetest, most flavorful of all papayas, this salmon-red fruit is a great source of vitamin C and A. But an unchanging diet, of anything, no matter how delicious, can become monotonous, and recently I have felt something lacking.

November Greetings

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Just back from an amazing trip to New York City, where I attended an invitation-only forum with two dozen high-powered businessmen. It felt wonderful to be back in my element.

Also wanted to tip my hat to my friend and editor, Morri Mostow, who has just launched her novel for middle grades (for kids age 9 and up). P.J. le Pooch & the Magic Sketchbook is a charming, uplifting tale about an 11-year-old girl whose life changes in magical ways when she rescues a dog against her mother's wishes. The perfect Christmas or Chanukah gift for a young reader, boy or girl. To order her book in paperback or in your preferred e-book format, click here.