For most of my life, the Bahamas have been an idyllic island paradise known for their rich Caribbean beauty and culture of relaxation. I recall vividly many years ago as part of my honeymoon cruise, our ship stopped in the Bahamas, where my husband and I disembarked to enjoy hiking and taking in the beauty of a place surrounded by beautiful azure water sparkling like a glorious crown jewel. Now, these island treasures face an uncertain future in the wake of the destruction wrought by Hurricane … [Read more...]
Look for the Helpers
On a beautiful fall morning 16 years ago, our nation’s collective consciousness was shattered by the horrific attacks on the World Trade Center. That day, our shared belief in the safety of our nation and its borders was instantly changed into a sense of disbelief, fear and anger, all of which persist to this day. However, despite the negative ramifications of that fateful day, I’d like to remember a bright spot, reminiscent of which I witnessed this past week in the way first responders and … [Read more...]
Musical Memories: Five Feet High and Rising
Like millions of Americans, I’ve remained glued to the television and other news outlets chronicling the epic deluge that Hurricane Harvey has unleashed across Houston, Rockport, Galveston, and along the Gulf Shores of Texas and into Louisiana. As a fellow Texan and an American, it’s been heart wrenching to watch the powerful destruction so easily wrought to the works of men by Mother Nature. As a lifelong educator and a parent, I am especially moved by images of babies, toddlers and … [Read more...]