You are here: Living Louder | The Good Life

Living louder means knowing about and taking pleasure in the finer things in life.

And it's not about the cost. Value isn't always about money (although finer things can come with a pretty price tag). It's about how something ultimately contributes to your life.

I am always discovering helpful little tips, tidbits and resources. My friends really appreciate when I pass the info on, so I thought that I would pass the info onto you! The tips and resources that I share, will always be fresh and new. I pass them onto you in hopes that they are a fun way to help you to navigate through your busy life! Enjoy!

Books

05.18.15 | This Is NPR: The First Forty Years by NPR -- NPR is a true American treasure and one that should be celebrated by taking some time to reflect on how it started and how it has evolved. NPR has also included DVDs, which include broadcasts of some of their most memorable stories...

05.11.15 | Inside Inside -- Gussie gave this book to me as a gift and -

I like it.

05.04.15 | Home Is Where The Heart Is -- This book provides the reader with a delicious opportunity to appreciate "home" and to discover what it is that can make yours - uniquely YOU!

04.20.15 | Notes on a Life -- Stories of courage always leave me challenged to take a look at my own life and how it would read if recorded on paper. Eleanor Coppola generously shares about her own life, offering the reader a peek inside the world that often looks like all glamour and no pain. She humanizes what we often idolize.

04.13.15 | Joie de Vivre -- Because I love food and I love anything French!...

04.06.15 | The New York Times: The Complete Front Pages: 1851-2008 -- Because this book allows you to follow the important (and not so important) stories from around the world, as they played out, from one day to the next. If you love history and current events you will absolutely love this book!

03.30.15 | Deep Economy: The Wealth of Communities and the Durable Future -- This remarkable economic climate calls for remarkable thinkers that offer fresh ideas that will allow for us to thrive in the twenty first century. Bill McKibben is such a thinker. Deep Economy: The Wealth of Communities and the Durable Future is his fresh idea.

03.23.15 | What The World Eats -- Because "we are what we eat" and how we eat reveals so much about who we are. What the World Eats will, through wonderful pictures, informative graphs and interesting narrative, provide an entertaining experience that will leave you enlightened, not only about the differences in the way people in different parts of the world eat, but also in the different ways that we fundamentally live.

(For me, it also raised some interesting questions about health and well being as it relates to what we are eating.)

03.16.15 | An Affair with a House -- Whether you have found your dream house or still dreaming, this book is a story in words and photographs of a dream, becoming reality. Bunny Williams generously shares her journey of finding and transforming the house and the home of her dreams! A great book for a rainy afternoon...

03.02.15 | How to Be an Explorer of the World: Portable Life Museum -- Because it encourages the reader to examine their personal world with fresh eyes and to begin to think differently about what might be taken for granted...

02.23.15 | The Family of Man -- I bought this book on a recent trip to the museum. I remember it sitting on our coffee table when I was a kid. I used to look at the pictures, not yet quite able to receive its poignant relevance. All of these years later, this book still captivates and confirms universal truths about our humanity.

02.16.15 | The Bucolic Plague: How Two Manhattanites Became Gentlemen Farmers: An Unconventional Memoir -- As someone who lives in "The Big City" I often fantasize about a simpler life and wonder what it would be like to have my own farm. This book feeds the fantasy!

02.09.15 | Masters of Movement: Portraits of America's Great Choreographers -- The mind of an artist, the rhythms and the way and the why of how they live fascinates me because I feel that artists and their creations contribute so much to what makes us all more human.

I bought this book as a gift for someone and then I went back and got one for myself. It is beautifully photographed and wonderfully written and very hard to put down.

01.19.15 | A Transatlantic Love Affair: Letters to Nelson Algren -- I first read this book a few years ago. I loved the romance of writing letters. I loved that she was in Paris and he was in Chicago. I loved living vicariously through her words. I am reading it a second time and I'm loving it all over again...

01.12.15 | Sports Illustrated: Athlete --

Few single moments capture our imaginations like those miraculous and seemingly impossible moments in sports, and Walter Ioos is a master at capturing those moments and of freezing them in time. Poetry in motion caught on film and forever preserved!

12.22.14 | Take This Bread: A Radical Conversion -- Stories and examples of people following their heart can be very inspiring, particularly when there are hurdles and obstacles to overcome. This is a moving account of one woman's commitment to a life beyond herself and beyond being right about a position. It's about what can happen when you are willing to listen to your heart...

12.15.14 | A Moveable Feast by Ernest Hemingway --

Woody Allen's A Midnight in Paris inspired me to read this book again... Hemingway ignites the magic, beauty and poetry of Paris! See the movie! Read the book (again).

12.08.14 | The Next American Revolution -- These days there seems to be no shortage of bad news. Doom and gloom are every where as stories of hard times brought on by unnecessary greed have left people afraid of what the future might hold. Grace Lee Boggs challenges the reader to embrace a new America by realizing that each of us individually has something to contribute and that together we can make changes in our own communities that will lead to a brighter tomorrow.

12.01.14 | What Are You Optimistic About?: Today's Leading Thinkers on Why Things Are Good and Getting Better -- With all of the bad news out there these days, optimism is something that we could all use a little bit more of and John Brockman taps some of today's most intriguing minds about what they are personally optimistic about.

Spend some time pondering what there might be to feel good about as you look forward to the future!

11.24.14 | Feast: Food to Celebrate Life -- Because Nigella Lawson captures the spirit of connecting with people and enjoying grand occasions as well as those tiny special moments in life, through food. Her cookbook is one of my favorites because her appreciation of life and love, as opposed to perfection are evident on each and every page.

11.17.14 | George Washington's Rules of Civility & Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation --

I am fascinated at looking back in time and trying to imagine what life was like in another era. Rules of Civility provides a cultural compass while offering suggestions that are still very relevant today. (Be prepared to be amused).

11.10.14 | Hard Times: An Oral History of the Great Depression -- Because we can learn valuable lessons from those who have come before us and survived - brilliantly.

10.27.14 | The Sartorialist: Closer -- This new book from the author of The Sartorialist, again inspires me to be true to my own sense of style...

Scott Schuman has an eye for great style and he successfully captures the individual fashion flare of his subjects in a way that makes you want to look at this book again and again and again and this, his second book delivers the same!

10.20.14 | American Earth: Environmental Writing Since Thoreau -- The subject matter is not only timeless, but timely -- Being GREEN, going GREEN, thinking GREEN, GREEN is the new black - GREEN is what we are talking about these days.

American Earth captures the thoughts, beautifully expressed, of some of America's best writers, on the subject of our environment. Whether you are already committed to GREEN or on your way to discovering what all the fuss is about, this book is just a great read. A must have for your personal stack!

10.13.14 | Give Us Your Poor -- Well it's actually a CD but such an awesome CD that I am recommending it this week instead of a book. For anyone who has a pulse, let alone a heart and a genuine concern for the real struggles of other people, this beautiful compilation is one not to miss.

10.06.14 | Ali Rap -- Ali inspires. He inspires me specifically because he has always has the courage of his convictions and that is demonstrated beautifully in this book, a collection of his words, masterfully woven together, with pictures.

09.29.14 | Building Social Business: The New Kind of Capitalism That Serves Humanity's Most Pressing Needs -- Because I have always believed that there is a balance that we need to strike between profound success and the world working for us all...

09.15.14 | Found: The Best Lost, Tossed, and Forgotten Items from Around the World -- Thoroughly entertaining and surprising. This book offers a unique illumination into the human psyche.

09.08.14 | Angela Davis: An Autobiography -- “I think the most important thing you walk away with, and what she wants you to walk away with, is a clear and powerful demonstration of just how much people can bring about real change when we work together collectively in mass and fight for what we believe is right." - Amazon.com review, jizzoe

09.01.14 | Gig: Americans Talk About Their Jobs -- Because I am fascinated with intimate peeks into the lives of everyday people. There is so much beauty in the candor and simplicity of human beings and so much that we can learn about ourselves while peeking.

08.25.14 | Letters of the Century: America 1900-1999 -- This collection of letters written during the Twentieth Century is a great book to add to your collection. Some sad, some touching, some funny - each letter offers a glimpse into an aspect of life, once upon a time. This book promises to inform as well as to inspire.

08.18.14 | The Worst Hard Time -- An epic story of survival through blind hope, this is an unbelievably true story of remarkable endurance. If you think you're having a bad day...

08.11.14 | The Oxford Project -- Because this book is amazing!

How often do we get the opportunity to "see" another person just as he is? And, if everybody does in fact have a story, how often do we seize the opportunity to "hear" another person just as she is? The Oxford Project offers the gift of connecting with others and the bonus of finding ourselves in the process.

08.04.14 | The New Gypsies -- Protest can happen in many ways. The New Gypsies represent the opportunity of putting your money where your mouth is; of walking the talk, and they do it with such style...

07.28.14 | Time Was Soft There: A Paris Sojourn at Shakespeare & Co. -- Auguste and Gussie and I love this bookstore. It is quaint and a little dusty and magical...The books that you stumble upon are treasures, partly because they have a magnificent and unique collection but mostly because of the this place...Read this book. Jeremy Mercer captures and delivers.

07.21.14 | Let's Explore Diabetes With Owls -- Because sometimes you just need to laugh and David Sedaris guarantees a laugh a minute - I am not kidding. Sedaris takes the most ordinary, mundane, often unfortunate, always human, moments in life and turns them into touching and poignant insights.

*Caution: If you are too self conscious to laugh out loud, alone, in public, do not get this book.

07.14.14 | Farm City: The Education of an Urban Farmer -- Because, aside from the fact that this is a delightful book that is entertaining and hard to put down, the topic is extremely relevant as more people are investigating the advantages of growing and eating their own food. I am also recommending this book because I am myself an urban dweller who hopes to one day have a garden in the city and this book will most definitely be taken along for the ride

07.07.14 | Bad Haircut : Stories of the Seventies -- Whether you grew up during the era or not, the 70's was just an awesome time. The music, the fashion, the social culture - read this book and take a worthwhile journey through time!

06.30.14 | Robert Kennedy and His Times -- Robert Kennedy remains one of the most inspiring figures in American history, and is often mentioned and remembered as someone who offered hope and a promise to a wounded nation. This account of his life speaks with relevance, to a nation - today.

06.23.14 | The Week-End Book -- Leisure time is rare and special and The Week-End Book offers ideas about different things to do while you are enjoying some time off. From star gazing to "parlor games", this book is one for the collection...

06.16.14 | The Country Between Us --

The book opens with a series of poems about El Salvador, where ForchÉ worked as a journalist and was closely involved with the political struggle in that tortured country in the late 1970's. ForchÉ's other poems also tend to be personal, immediate, and moving. Perhaps the final effect of her poetry is the image of a sensitive, brave, and engaged young woman who has made her life a journey. She has already traveled to many places, as these poems indicate, but beyond that is the sense of someone who is, in Ignazio Silone's words, coming from far and going far.

06.09.14 | Alternative Cures: More than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies -- Because natural remedies are often the best way to be, get and stay well. Bill Gottlieb offers the cures that are easy to find and safe to use because they are natural. (I loved his first book. I use it often). If you liked his first book, you'll love the sequel!

04.28.14 | The Accidental Masterpiece : On the Art of Life and Vice Versa -- Art and life go hand in hand. They dance together everyday whether we notice it or not. Art influences life and life influences art. Art makes us more human. Discover, more deeply, its influence.

04.21.14 | Feed the Hungry: A Memoir with Recipes --

Food is a language that all human beings have in common which might help to explain why it is so effective in taking a reader into the world of this writer. Nani Power combines two of my favorite things in Feed the Hungry - reading about eating and being transported into the world of someone with something interesting to say.

03.31.14 | A Cook's Tour -- I love Anthony Bourdain's television show No Reservations. He always leaves me wanting to go where he has been so that I can experience the food and the people that he encounters. Bourdain is a great writer; very funny and down to earth. He gets "right to it" and always leaves me wanting more!

03.24.14 | On The Street -- This book is an anthropological masterpiece... This kind of stuff fascinates me...

03.10.14 | Rich and Poor: Photographs by Jim Goldberg -- Because Jim Goldberg brilliantly captures the stunning contrast between extreme ends of the economic spectrum, and in the process he manages to reveal remarkable human frailty that waxes poetic.

02.24.14 | The Company They Kept: Writers on Unforgettable Friendships -- I like this book because I like exploring the lives of people who shape culture. I like discovering interesting and unexpected tidbits about people that I already found interesting. Take a peek...

02.10.14 | Whatever Happened to Tanganyika?: The Place Names that History Left Behind -- Because it is packed full of interesting tidbits that will expand your insight and understanding of how events shape geography. It's also a fascinating and fun history lesson!

01.20.14 | An Anthropologist on Mars -- This book offers us, the reader, an opportunity to expand our capacity to understand and perhaps even empathize with other people's extraordinary experiences.

01.13.14 | The Yellow-Lighted Bookshop --

I love hanging out in bookstores, I think because anything feels possible in a bookstore. Surrounded by all of those thoughts and ideas tucked between the covers and arranged upon the shelves makes me feel a profound sense of adventure and optimism. Lewis Buzbee gets it about Bookstores!

12.30.13 | Why Do I Love These People? Honest and Amazing Stories of Real Families --

Because Po Bronson takes the dysfunction out of "dysfunctional family". If you've ever felt like you were alone in all of the challenges of being a member of a family, think again. This book is a brilliant demonstration that every family has its issues. You are not alone!

And -

As much as they are a source of joy and love, our families can also be a source of great pain and disappoint. Fortunately, we grow and learn as much (if not more) from pain and disappointment than we do from joy and love.

11.18.13 | Life Is Meals: A Food Lover's Book of Days -- Life is Meals celebrates good food, good living, good company, good conversation, great writers -- all ingredients for great living. Good tips (like what makes a good waiter), interesting historical facts (like the chronicling of the last supper on the Titanic) and practical information (like what fruit goes best with which cheese) are just a little bit of what makes this book a must read! Oh - the writing is magnificent as well...

11.04.13 | The Kitchen Diaries: A Year in the Kitchen with Nigel Slater -- You'll want to pick this one up in anticipation of those crisp autumn evenings because this book goes great with your favorite hot drink and a sweater.

The recipes evolve as a result of Slater's day-to-day experiences over the course of a year in his life. Which makes it that much more entertaining to roll up your sleeves and get your measuring cup out...

10.21.13 | Our Choice: A Plan to Solve the Climate Crisis -- In the wake of hurricane Sandy, also known as "Frankenstorm", I suggest it's not a bad idea for us to start taking global warming seriously. Our Choice is about humanity banning together to try and save the planet before it's too late.

10.14.13 | The Words of Peace, Fourth Edition: Selections from the Speeches of the Winners of the Nobel Peace Prize -- I have been feeling for quite some time that examples of human compromise and cowardice, stories of hate and destruction, litter our mental space and aggressively vie for our attention. It just feels healthy to feed the soul words of peace and hope, courage and optimism, that we might begin to steer our collective ship in another direction, and settle on a more constructive course.

09.30.13 | The Backyard Homestead by Carleen Madigan --

Because, even if you don't have the backyard space for a garden (perhaps a friend or a family member does) this book offers the possibility of a new way of thinking about productivity!

09.23.13 | Our America: Life And Death On The Southside Of Chicago -- Because it takes extraordinary courage to survive the kind of conditions that these kids had to survive.

Because we can learn a great deal from their strength and from their willingness to see the world as it might be.

09.16.13 | Women of the Left Bank of Paris -- This is a beautifully written book that serves as a reminder of the extraordinary literary and artistic contributions that women made and continue to make, while capturing a pivotal period in cultural and literary history and the unique magic of Paris during this time.

09.09.13 | Extracts from the Red Notebooks -- Imagine collecting different thoughts, quotes, interesting facts...for 27 years. Now imagine going through that collection and putting together a book that others might enjoy. In remembrance of his son, who lost his battle with a rare cancer at the age of 13, Mark Engel does exactly that. Enjoy his poignant, funny and provocative journey.

09.02.13 | The Assault on Reason -- This book is a wake up call!

The issues that confront us today are some of the most critical issues that we have faced in generations. Now is not the time for "business as usual" with regard to our politics. We can no longer afford the kind of complacency that continues to result in our being manipulated by fear and distracted by hatred. New possibilities for living are available to us right now if we are willing to take responsibility and to actively participate.

07.29.13 | Lost in the Meritocracy: The Undereducation of an Overachiever --

Because it is a stunningly truthful memoir that, anyone who has ever struggled with wanting to belong, will be able to relate to.

7.22.13 | Grub: Ideas for an Urban Organic Kitchen -- Eat healthy! Eat intelligently!

I care more and more about the food that I am putting into my body. Ever since I have been able to make the practical connection between the food that I eat and my general well being, and ever since I have been able to make the distinction between corporate profit and my best interest, I have been committed to learning more. Grub provides more great information about the cost of not being intentional about the way that we eat...Great recipes too!

07.08.13 | War and Peace --

If you haven't read it then now might be a good time to cross it off your list -- it is, after all, the perfect summer read. If you've already read it then you might want to read it again. This new translation is great!

06.10.13 | American Farmer -- Because, although farmers and farming are the subject of this book, it is ultimately a book about hard work, hope, determination and the ability to endure. The photographs are captivating and truly capture the grit and spirit of each subject and the interviews tell an elegant story of a great American Institution.

06.03.13 | Cork Boat: A True Story of the Unlikeliest Boat Ever Built -- As a speechwriter for President Bill Clinton, Pollack was inspired to promote the value of whimsy and the importance of bringing people together to simply have fun. This charming account of his experience building the worlds first boat made out of corks and then sailing it down the Douro River in Portugal, provides an opportunity to be truly transported!

05.06.13 | The Book of General Ignorance: Everything You Think You Know is Wrong -- For the most part we take knowledge for granted. Too often, without challenge, we accept what "experts" offer as fact. The Book of General Ignorance provides fascinating information while it re-answers some of our most conventional questions, but what I like most about this book is that it encourages us to be more curious.

04.22.13 | Humanity -- Glover discusses the "why" of our inhumanity as a way of offering hope of a more humane existence. In light of many of the events taking place in the world today, this is a relevant and important examination.

03.25.13 | The Assassins' Gate: America in Iraq -- A friend, who has just returned after having served in Iraq, suggests that this book gives a most accurate account of what this war is like from the Iraqi perspective. Plus, it would be weird at this point, not to talk about this war.

03.04.13 | There Is No Me Without You: One Woman's Odyssey to Rescue Africa's Children -- This is the story of how one woman who, having lost both her husband and her 23 year old daughter to aids, and in spite of her devastation, went on to provide care for orphaned children of AIDS. Her contribution to humanity is incredible.

02.18.13 | Rilke on Love and Other Difficulties: Translations and Considerations -- I love poetry and through beautiful poetry, Rilke challenges the reader to live now and to love the question that life ultimately is, offering peace of mind through surrender...

02.11.13 | The Constitution of the United States of America, with the Bill of Rights and all of the Amendments; The Declaration of Independence; and the Articles of Confederation -- Because it includes the documents that govern American life. It's small enough to carry around with you. If you don't have a copy, get one. (Also available in hardcover).

02.04.13 | American Photobooth -- Because who hasn't stepped into the American photo booth and experienced its magic?

I remember my first photo booth pictures were at K-Mart with my best friend Lisa Adkins. We were in sixth grade. I wish I still had those photos...

01.14.13 | Edible Selby --

I love Todd Selby's eye and his style sensibility. The Selby is in Your Place is one of my favorite books and so it was with great anticipation and expectation that I waited for this, his latest book, Edible Selby, to hit the shelves. Another hit! If you love food and style photographed beautifully and styled in a fresh way, and then this book is one for the collection!

01.07.13 | Slavery by Another Name: The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II --

Slavery still remains a taboo subject; a subject few are willing to discuss or discover. As a result, the devastating consequences remain. And, until we look at and truthfully examine slavery and the legacy it wrought, we will not move beyond it. Slavery by Another Name offers an opportunity to begin to discover the harsh reality of an economy dependent on the enslavement of men and the continuation of this inhumane practice - in another form.

12.31.12 | Fat Land: How Americans Became the Fattest People in the World -- Because “French women don't get fat�, and because American women (men and children) don't have to be fat either. The rate of obesity in America has nearly tripled in less than fifty years as a result of an unhealthy strategy for big business to make big dollars.

Information is power and as it turns out your best weapon in fighting the battle of the bulge.

12.24.12 | Why I'm Like This: True Stories --

This book will remind you that we are all more alike than we are different. And, you will laugh over and over again as Cynthia Kaplan's stories take you on a trip down memory lane.

12.03.12 | Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America -- It's the "pink elephant on the table", our "dirty little secret" that author Barbara Ehrenreich goes undercover to expose...

11.26.12 | Let Me Stand Alone: The Journals of Rachel Corrie -- Rachel Corrie's story is one of real courage and one of a rare commitment to justice and humanity. Brilliantly inspiring, this story will touch your soul.

11.05.12 | State by State: A Panoramic Portrait of America -- Because America is fascinated with America right now and Americans are more curious than ever about this country we call home. State by State takes the reader inside a very personal orientation of each state, uncovering unexpected and charming details. A perfect way to celebrate our United States - one great state at a time!

10.08.12 | Free Lunch -- Because I believe that to pursue information and to be informed is the greatest expression of patriotism.

08.27.12 | The Annotated Mona Lisa: A Crash Course in Art History from Prehistoric to Post-Modern -- If you've always wanted to know more about art history but were discouraged because it seemed to complex - this is book is a must have. Use it as a "before and after guide" as a way to enhance your trips to the museum. While it doesn't provide in-depth analysis, it does provide a great overview of major artwork.

07.30.12 | Flowers: How They Changed the World -- This book brings new meaning to the phrase "Flower Power" by examines the role that flowers play in the world. Beyond their obvious beauty they are essential in maintaining balance...

07.16.12 | Natural Capitalism -- Because it's time for change...

07.09.12 | Grace (Eventually) -- Anne Lamott offers a refreshing perspective on ordinary life. She connects the dots between living life everyday and believing in something that is bigger than you, and she does it in a way that will leave the reader feeling relieved from a self imposed need to seem perfect.

06.18.12 | What to Eat -- Learn to eat smart!

We truly are what we eat so is it any wonder that Americans keep getting fatter and sicker every year? Marion Nestle helps the reader to understand the relationship between what you are putting into your body and your general health and well being, with the added bonus of letting you in on who wants you to eat what and why...

05.07.12 | McClellan Street -- Because David and Peter Turnley have so brilliantly captured the poignant in what otherwise might be considered the mundane. They have provided a poetic look into the soul of a struggling working class community, capturing its beauty and making it hard to look away.

04.09.12 | Leaves of Grass --

Words, composed beautifully, allow us to access our collective humanity. Walt Whitman composes words, most beautifully.

03.26.12 | The Selby is in Your Place -- Because Todd Selby brings his fashion, interiors and photographic talents together along with a curiosity about how creative people live at home. It's a fun book that is aesthetically inspiring and pleasing...

03.19.12 | Pink Flamingos -- I enjoy beautiful things. This book is full of gorgeous photos and insightful commentary about these creatures who seem to know they possess something uniquely lovely. They inspire me to pay more attention to the beauty that surrounds...

03.12.12 | Lost in the Supermarket: The Indie Rock Cookbook -- Is there a better combination in the world than food and music? Yes. Good food and hip music! The kitchen is no longer the exclusive domain of the June Cleaver crew. Lost in the Supermarket: The Indie Rock Cookbook has just made it cool to strap on an apron and throw down bringing you up to speed about who's hot in the world of Indie Rock!

02.20.12 | Five Flights Up and Other New York Apartment Stories by Toni Schlesinger --

Because I love New York!

Love it or leave it, there is no place like New York. And, the way New Yorkers have to live and dwell together makes this book an interesting read. Toni Schlesinger captures the diversity of experiences that crisis cross everyday in the Big Apple offering, perhaps, an explanation for why, in spite of the small spaces, New Yorkers love to live in New York!

02.13.12 | An Intimate History of Humanity -- It is fascinating and important to inquire into what makes us human and why we do the things we do. Different people with different experiences from different eras are studied in an attempt by the author to begin to understand the history of emotions and social customs.

01.30.12 | Shakespeare: The World as Stage -- For a guy who continues to influence modern culture through his timeless poetry and prose, little has been written about who Shakespeare really was. I always find it interesting to discover little known facts about "larger than life" figures, especially those who have somehow shaped the way that we live, because I am profoundly curious about what has set them apart and contributed to their greatness.

11.28.11 | A People's History of the United States: 1492-Present -- Finally, a book that allows us to examine American History from the perspective of the oppressed, which, when alongside more traditional studies, allows for a broader more accurate version of the facts.

11.07.11 | Manners -- An aesthetically pleasing read, this book serves as a well designed reminder of some of the obvious things that we all already know about manners and a few new bits of advice for these rapidly changing times. It's a fun read and it will look good sitting on your desk or table.

09.19.11 | Listening Is an Act of Love: A Celebration of American Life from the StoryCorps Project -- Because I believe that people fundamentally long to be connected with others and because I believe that we are fundamentally more alike than we are different.

This book will make a believer out of you too.

08.15.11 | It Happened in Wisconsin --

Wisconsin is in the news! As people discover the rich legacy and politics of Wisconsin and it's contribution to our 50 states, It Happened in Wisconsin offers a comprehensive history of Wisconsin and explores what makes the dairy state great!

07.25.11 | Mrs. Tependris: The Contemporary Years -- The adventures of a socialite art collector -- now who wouldn't want to know more about that?...

07.18.11 | Street: The Nylon Book of Global Style -- Because I love Nylon Magazine and the way they capture the creativity and excitement of street style. This book is like having the best of Nylon with no distractions!

04.18.11 | The Pun Also Rises: How the Humble Pun Revolutionized Language, Changed History, and Made Wordplay More Than Some Antics -- John Pollack's whimsical style brings a sense of fun as he examines how the pun has contributed to the evolution of language and how it shapes how we communicate today. John makes puns cool...

04.11.11 | Just Kids -- Patti Smith puts the Star in Rock Star. What a treat to be let into the evolution of two artistic geniuses. Just Kids takes the reader on a journey of discovery and shares a unique and beautiful love story.

03.21.11 | The Economists Book of Obituaries -- Because this book is amazing!

Contrary to its potentially gloomy subject matter and title, The Economists Book of Obituaries is a celebration of life. A reflection of fascinating lives lived by fascinating people, be prepared to be inspired, educated and entertained!

01.24.11 | Becoming Something: The Story of Canada Lee -- Canada Lee - ever heard of him? Exactly. Until recently I had never heard of Canada Lee either, but he made a tremendous contribution to our culture before he was blacklisted during the McCarthy era. He was left broke and broken hearted. He died in 1952 at the age of 45.

This book is a study in Civil Rights and in what it means to sacrifice.

10.25.10 | Book by Book: Notes on Reading and Life -- I love my books! It is because I love books and because I believe that reading books, in fact reading a lot of books often, is a good habit to develop, that I like this book. Dirda's love for books and his relationship to books and life experiences guides the reader to a deeper appreciation for one of our most precious privileges - the opportunity to read.

09.13.10 | Kara Walker: After the Deluge -- Kara Walker is an artist whose work captivates. After the Deluge showcases her bold and uncompromising ability to observe the present while exploring history, through a unique and fresh medium.

08.30.10 | Breach of Faith -- Lest we forget...

08.16.10 | Silent Spring -- Rachel Carson was a revolutionary. In 1962, with the publishing of her findings in Silent Spring, she changed the way that we live by raising our awareness of toxic dangers. Remember DDT? Yes you do because it is still on the shelves! I can remember when I first found out that it was harmful to living things. I was surprised (and still am) that it was still being sold - for people to use!

Read Silent Spring as a personal wake up call and consider that it will arm you with the kind of information that will change your life for the better.

07.19.10 | Letters to a Young Artist: Straight-up Advice on Making a Life in the Arts - For Actors, Performers, Writers, and Artists of Every Kind -- Having a solid home base is critical to living well. It is also essential for maintaining the level of clarity that is required for creating. Why not have a solid home base that is also a beautiful home base?

05.17.10 | On That Day, Everybody Ate: One Woman's Story of Hope and Possibility in Haiti -- Because this book is a powerful demonstration that the people of Haiti are so much more than the poverty that plagues their land. They are a beautiful people full of dreams and courage and resilience and the hope of a brighter day.

05.03.10 | The Battle for the Soul of Capitalism -- John Bogle writes this important book as a wake up call. The system is broken. We can either fix it or endure the inevitable consequences of a system forced to self correct...

04.05.10 | Outcasts United: A Refugee Team, an American Town -- Because Outcasts United serves as a powerful living example of how the human spirit can endure and overcome the most horrific of circumstances and provides a compass to the beauty and strength that lies within us all....

03.15.10 | You Grow Girl: The Groundbreaking Guide to Gardening -- Because Gayla's passion for gardening is contagious and because urban gardening is really catching on.

If you are serious about eating food that you grow with your own two hands but concerned about that fact that you live in the city and not “on the farm�, this is a great book to get you started!

01.11.10 | Blue Planet Run: The Race to Provide Safe Drinking Water to the World -- Because there are too many people on the planet without fresh drinking water! The availability of clean, fresh drinking water to areas in the world that are without, would go a long way in curing a number of critical health issues.

Blue Planet Run is a 95-day race around the world to raise awareness about the global water crisis. Blue Planet Run, the book, is collection of the photos and interviews of 40 photojournalists…Beautiful photos and heart warming stories fill the pages...

12.28.09 | I Live Here -- Because it offers the stories that so often go untold - the stories about people who have been personally impacted by tragedy, crisis or violence.

This book is a sober reminder that terrible things happen to people like "us" everyday and that none of us is immune to the evil that might be inflicted in this world. Mia Kirshner offers a touching look into crisis and explores what it means to be a survivor. Inspiring and brilliant!

11.09.09 | The Sartorialist -- Because this book inspires me to be true to my own sense of style...

Scott Schuman has an eye for great style and he successfully captures the individual fashion flare of his subjects in a way that makes you want to look at this book again and again and again.

07.13.09 | Heavy Rotation -- Because, in the midst of my sadness on the day after Michael Jackson's death, I stumbled into a bookstore and the first book that demanded my attention happened to be a book that included an essay from a woman who wrote about what Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 meant to her as kid; about how those boys changed her live. I felt as if I had written the piece myself – that's how powerfully it resonated and how precisely I identified.

The writer is Martha Southgate. The book is Heavy Rotation...

06.08.09 | Awearness: Inspiring Stories about How to Make a Difference -- It is a beautiful demonstration that together, we can make a huge difference!

05.18.09 | Whatever It Takes: Geoffrey Canada's Quest to Change Harlem and America --

Because Geoffrey Canada is a warrior, talking the talk and walking the walk. His passion is his work and the success of his program threatens to dramatically shift what is or is not possible for poor children across America.

04.13.09 | When You Are Engulfed in Flames by David Sedaris --

Because sometimes you just need to laugh and David Sedaris guarantees a laugh a minute - I am not kidding.

Sedaris takes the most ordinary, mundane, often unfortunate, always human, moments in life and turns them into touching and poignant insights.

*Caution: If you are too self conscious to laugh out loud, alone, in public, do not get this book.

01.12.09 | The Words of Peace: Selections from the Speeches of the Winners of the Nobel Peace Prize -- Because what the world needs now is less fighting and a greater willingness to promote peace.

11.03.08 | The Saucier's Apprentice: One Long Strange Trip through the Great Cooking Schools of Europe -- Because I love real stories that include food somehow. Bob Spitz is also very candid and generous with his humanity. For me this book is like a delicious look into the life of a successful man trying to navigate a life in breakdown by choosing to pursue a life doing what he has come to love. Good reading!

08.04.08 | Twentysomething Essays by Twentysomething Writers -- The first decade of the 21st century belongs to the twenty something generation. There perspective is fresh and they are defining now how we will live for generations to come...

07.28.08 | The Red Leather Diary: Reclaiming a Life through the Pages of a Lost Journal -- A good summer read should offer a bit of adventurous and should inspire fantasy. The Red Leather Diary leads me willingly into another time and place where I can assume an appealing identity that allows my imagination to wander for an afternoon.

07.21.08 | Journey of a Thousand Miles: My Story -- Truth is a rare commodity these days. Truth Dig offers a deeper more thoughtful look at the issues that matter to our daily lives, providing a credible source for getting information straight up.

07.14.08 | When You Are Engulfed in Flames by David Sedaris --

David Sedaris is one of the funniest, freshest and wisest writers today. I can't read his essays or listen to him speak without laughing out loud from the sheer recognition of my own mundane and human experience. He makes me feel like I'm not "the only one".

David captures humanity and allows us the opportunity to connect with our own humanity and celebrate our precious vulnerability.

06.23.08 | Things I Learned About My Dad: Humorous and Heartfelt Essays --

I am a fan of Heather Armstrong's blog www.dooce.com. I appreciate her intelligence and her sense of humor. I also like reading other people's blogs because I always learn something unexpected about myself. Heather and the other bloggers whose work is showcased in this book, offer personal insight that will make you laugh and perhaps will even make you cry.

05.05.08 | Life Laid Bare: The Survivors in Rwanda Speak --

French journalist and war correspondent Hatzfeld offers brief, pithy accounts of 14 survivors of the three-day Rwandan genocide of 1994, in which 10,000 Tutsis seeking refuge in churches were slaughtered by machete-wielding Hutus. The survivors describe both devastation, as neighbors with whom [they] used to chat became executioners, and the degradation of later being marginalized by Rwandan society. Announcing their presence with whistles and songs, the Hutu killers arrived regularly in the morning and left in the late afternoon, their violent sprees corresponding with victims' efforts to hide the children in small groups under the papyrus at sunrise, and to emerge from hiding places in the marsh when the killers had finished their work at sunset. Even though each account tells the same harrowing story, each voice is unique. Bringing cumulative power to what, in lesser hands, might have been a random collection of historical accounts, Hatzfeld's wrenching collection compels an active response to the genocides occurring today.

04.07.08 | The Fortune Cookie Chronicles: Adventures in the World of Chinese Food -- If you stop to think about it, eating Chinese food is a one of the most popular American pastimes. Jennifer 8 Lee takes an in depth and thoughtful look at why, revealing all sorts of interesting and provocative bits of cultural information that provide an appreciation for Chinese food in America that goes far beyond just the food.

03.10.08 | American Shaolin: Flying Kicks, Buddhist Monks, and the Legend of Iron Crotch: An Odyssey in the New China -- If you like your wisdom served up in tasty tidbits; if you like a book that will dare you to want to put it down - you'll probably love this book. Polly shares his experience as a young, awkward, tall American man in China with delightful humor, observing the cultural realities, while learning valuable lessons about life.

02.11.08 | My New Orleans: Ballads to the Big Easy by Her Sons, Daughters, and Lovers -- My New Orleans gives those people who call New Orleans home, a way to pay tribute and to remember. For those of us who do not know New Orleans, it is an opportunity to learn. This book is a beautiful tribute to a city that many will fight to preserve. While it is unlikely that New Orleans will ever be what it was, what it can become will inevitably be informed by the heart and soul of its past.

02.04.08 | Saving Graces: Finding Solace and Strength from Friends and Strangers -- Elizabeth Edwards is one of the smartest, most courageous, compassionate and generously candid people in the public eye today. In this book she shares herself with the kind of power that promises to set the reader free...

12.17.07 | No Reservations: Around the World on an Empty Stomach -- Anthony Bourdain's television show on The Travel Channel is one of my favorite things to watch. This book is now one of my favorite things to read. Bourdain's off beat charm, insatiable curiosity and voracious appetite take the reader along on a journey to exotic places where food and culture are warmly served up in heaping portions. Thoroughly entertaining... I love this guy!

12.10.07 | New York Look Book: A Gallery Of Street Fashion -- One of the things that I love the most about New York City is the fact that the people are so interesting to observe. What people choose to wear says something about who they are, how they live, what kind of day they are having, what kind of work they might do...New York Look book features interesting pictures and tidbits about ordinary, yet very interesting New Yorkers.

I like to notice people because it expands who I am.

11.26.07 | The $64 Tomato : How One Man Nearly Lost his Sanity, Spent a Fortune, and Endured an Existential Crisis in the Quest for the Perfect Garden -- You don't have to be a gardener to enjoy reading this book. If you have ever been involved with trying to create something meaningful and faced major obstacles; obstacles that made you wonder if you should quit and just call it a day, You will want to read this book. If you want a shot of inspiration to get "through it all", then this book is for you, too.

11.19.07 | .Holidays: The Best of Martha Stewart Living -- Like it or not, this is Martha's time of year and while it is way too late to Martha Stewart-ize your Thanksgiving celebration (you need a good plan and a lot of time), you've still got barely enough time to "Martha it up" for Christmas.

10.22.07 | Service Included: Four-Star Secrets of an Eavesdropping Waiter -- This book read like a juicy novel, going behind the scenes of one of New York's best restaurants. Gossip, romance, food, hierarchy, celebrities -- this book is a fun read!

10.15.07 | Blessed Unrest -- With all of the tragic circumstances and negative events, worldwide, our sense of optimism is continuously being threatened; our sense of well being is consistently being assaulted.

Blessed Unrest exposes the fact that we are experiencing a global trend toward genuine grassroots humanity. Hawken shares what is right with the world and leaves the reader with a profound sense of hopefulness.

10.08.07 | The Battle for the Soul of Capitalism -- John Bogle writes this important book as a wake up call. The system is broken. We can either fix it or endure the inevitable consequences of a system forced to self correct...

08.13.07 | Fly Solo: The 50 Best Places On Earth For a Girl to Travel Alone -- If you've always wanted to go it alone, don't forget to pack this book. With information on what to pack and where to stay, eat and shop, if you are looking to expand your horizons by traveling to new places all by your lonesome, this book is for you!

07.30.07 | Toast -- I am definitely on a Nigel Slater page lately. I picked this book up in the bargain section of a bookstore in Michigan and I couldn't put it down. I love the way that he allows food to trigger the memories of his childhood. You can't help but trip down memory lane with Nigel Slater as you read this delicious book. Love it!

07.16.07 | My Kind Of Place -- Susan Orlean chronicles the adventures that she has in uncommon places. She focuses on the fun and special details in such a way that you experience traveling along with her.

07.09.07 | Saving Graces: Finding Solace and Strength from Friends and Strangers -- Elizabeth Edwards is one of the smartest, most courageous, compassionate and generously candid people in the public eye today. In this book she shares herself with the kind of power that promises to set the reader free...

07.02.07 | Vanity Fair: Bono Edition -- This is an exciting and important issue and one to hold on to. The articles highlight the best of Africa while shedding light on the urgent need there. Beautifully, beautifully done...

06.18.07 | Bad Girls: 26 Writers Misbehave -- I love this book because it gives us further permission to accept the fullness our humanity and to laugh a little out loud while doing it.

06.11.07 | ROBERT KENNEDY HIS LIFE -- Last week marked the anniversary of the death of one of America's greatest leaders; a leader shot down in his prime, leaving a nation empty and wondering what might have been. Thomas' book takes a fresh look at RFK the man "on the verge of achieving greatness"; the man who we remember -- greatly.

06.04.07 | The Intellectual Devotional: Revive Your Mind, Complete Your Education, and Roam Confidently with the Cultured Class -- Take this book to the beach or the park, read it with friends at your next dinner party or just enjoy a chapter when you have a quick minute. You'll enjoy learning more about all of the stuff that you never even knew you wanted to know more about!

05.14.07 | Edmund and Rosemary Go to Hell -- Wonderfully therapeutic...

04.09.07 | Alternative Cures: The Most Effective Natural Home Remedies for 160 Health Problems -- I have used this book on many occasions as a resource for treating colds and flu, cuts and bruises, bites and stings...Bill Gottlieb recommends cures that are natural and effective. If you aren't big on unnecessary medicine, read this book.

03.26.07 | Without A Map: A Memoir -- Triumph over cruel circumstances is something worthy of examination...

03.12.07 | Real Simple: Celebrations -- I am always looking for fun and creative ways to entertain. Real Simple Celebrations offers new and fun ways to throw a party without a lot of hard work.

03.05.07 | A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier -- Tragedy is harder to ignore when it has a face and such a beautiful voice.

02.26.07 | This I Believe -- When people share from the core of their being, other people get touched. When is the last time that you had an opportunity to listen to one person after another, talk about what it is that they truly believe? I believe that everyone has something important to contribute to everyone else.

What is it that you truly believe? Read this book and be reminded.

02.19.07 | When I Was a Loser: True Stories of (Barely) Surviving High School -- When I look back at my high school years I still cringe. When I Was a Loser helps us to laugh at, and muster up compassion for ourselves while at the same time helping us to realize that we are connected through this common experience.

02.12.07 | Life Is Meals: A Food Lover's Book of Days -- Life is Meals celebrates good food, good living, good company, good conversation, great writers -- all ingredients for great living. Good tips (like what makes a good waiter), interesting historical facts (like the chronicling of the last supper on the Titanic) and practical information (like what fruit goes best with which cheese) are just a little bit of what makes this book a must read! Oh - the writing is magnificent as well...

01.29.07 | Schott's Food and Drink Miscellany -- A friend gave me this book for Christmas and during the festive pace of Christmas day I opened it and read it while I drank some champagne. I thoroughly enjoyed every miscellaneous bit of this book. Buy it. Keep it around and pick it up whenever you are hungry for useful tidbits you didn't even know you needed.

01.22.07 | Rooms -- I am an fascinated with interior design and I really love interior design books like this one that are visually splendid but that also provide intimate insight into the people who dwell within.

01.15.07 | Breakfast, Lunch, Tea: The Many Little Meals of Rose Bakery -- Simple, fresh, delicious food, this book is where restaurant meets home and where trendy and hip meet down-to-earth. This is not just cookbook. It's an experience.

01.01.07 | An Affair with a House -- Whether you have found your dream house or still dreaming, this book is a story in words and photographs of a dream, becoming reality. Bunny Williams generously shares her journey of finding and transforming the house and the home of her dreams! A great book for a rainy afternoon...

12.25.06 | At Home with Magnolia: Classic American Recipes from the Owner of Magnolia Bakery -- They have the best cupcakes this side of forever!

12.11.06 | Worldchanging: A User's Guide for the 21st Century -- This book is packed with resourceful ideas about how we can all do our part to preserve the world that we live in. Worldchanging offers creative ways to make small changes that are not so hard to make and will leave you feeling good about the good that you are doing.

12.04.06 | What Is the What -- This book is incredibly real as it explores the horrors of the Sudanese civil war and compares and contrasts it with aspects of struggle and challenge in America. Also, all proceeds from the book go to Sudanese refugees in the U.S., the rebuilding of southern Sudan, and to organizations working for peace and humanitarian relief in Darfur.

11.27.06 | Make Gentle the Life of This World: The Vision of Robert F. Kennedy -- Robert Kennedy passionately pursued an ideal in a time and a place where that was extraordinary. That time and that place is a refection of today. This book serves as a reminder of a bigger vision and the opportunity of HOPE.

11.20.06 | Spectacle -- Gathering together is one of the most enlivening things that we do as human beings. David Rockwell shares beautiful photographs and commentary as he reports on the different ways that people, all over the world, gather together and as he explores why connecting is so fundamental to our existence.

11.13.06 | The Paris Review Interviews, Vol 1 -- Classic Treasure... Thought provoking... Timeless

11.06.06 | Audacity of Hope -- Barak Obama is someone who speaks to the bigness in people; he speaks of possibility and he does it in such a way that draws people, from opposite sides of an idea, together. Amid the noisy noise, He is a rare voice... I recommend the Audio version of this book, narrated by Barak Obama himself.

10.09.06 | U2 by U2 -- This book chronicles the journey world's greatest rock bands. A story about success and what it takes to get there told in there own words...

09.04.06 | Crazy Water Pickled Lemons: Enchanting Dishes from the Middle East, Mediterranean and North Africa -- The main ingredient in this book is the author's passion! If you enjoy cooking as part of what makes life interesting and memorable, you will appreciate this book as an opportunity to broaden your creative palette.

08.28.06 | Flowers: How They Changed the World -- This book brings new meaning to the phrase "Flower Power" by examines the role that flowers play in the world. Beyond their obvious beauty they are essential in maintaining balance...

08.14.06 | The Way We Live: An Ultimate Treasury for Global Design Inspiration -- It's like taking a forbidden peek into a house that you may have seen once or twice in your dreams... Beauty captured in the way that people live, all over the world...

08.07.06 | The Barefoot Contessa Cookbook -- Ina Gartner blends common sense about food and cooking with inspired artistry. The recipes are delicious and easy to make. The pictures are beautiful...

07.31.06 | The Week-End Book -- Leisure time is rare and special and The Week-End Book offers ideas about different things to do while you are enjoying some time off. From star gazing to "parlor games", this book is one for the collection...

07.17.06 | The Family of Man -- I bought this book on a recent trip to the museum. I remember it sitting on our coffee table when I was a kid. I used to look at the pictures, not yet quite able to receive its poignant relevance. All of these years later, this book still captivates and confirms universal truths about our humanity.

07.10.06 | Nicholas -- While looking for books for Gussie I found this little French book. As I thumbed through the pages I was transported back to early days as a child when life was simple and reading was something new and exciting. Although this is, traditionally, considered a children's book, if you like thoughtful, clever writing and storytelling you will truly enjoy this book.

Bonus: It is part of a series.

06.12.06 | The Facts: A Novelist's Autobiography -- Marydale said that it was excellent and so I picked it up. She was right.

06.05.06 | One Special Summer -- It's like a long thank you note and journal in one and perfect light reading for the beginning of summer. Jaqueline Kennedy Onasis and her younger sister Lee Radziwell share their European adventure during the summer of 1951 as an expression of appreciation to their parents...

05.29.06 | My Life in France -- If you love France or cooking or better yet, BOTH, then you will love this beautifully told story. This book transports you to a place and to an irresistible culinary experience.

05.22.06 | Daily Candy A-Z : An Insider's Guide to the Sweet Life -- This book is definitely an indulgent treat. It is a fun way to take a "coffee break" and just be delighted. I keep a copy on my desk so that when I need a pleasant distraction, I don't have to look very far...

05.15.06 | Life Happens: And Other Unavoidable Truths -- Connie Schultz writes boldly and beautifully about the things that really matter to us all. It's funny and candid and sure to entertain!

05.01.06 | Party of the Century: The Fabulous Story of Truman Capote and His Black-and-White Ball -- Truman Capote was not only one of the most talented writers of our times but he obviously knew how to throw a party. This book chronicles an era when Truman Capote was the "toast of the town", when a party was a party and provides an historical record of the "scene" that no longer exists. Times have certainly changed.

04.17.06 | Field Notes from a Catastrophe -- Global warming - it's something that's not going away.

04.10.06 | The $64 Tomato : How One Man Nearly Lost his Sanity, Spent a Fortune, and Endured an Existential Crisis in the Quest for the Perfect Garden -- You don't have to be a gardener to enjoy reading this book. If you have ever been involved with trying to create something meaningful and faced major obstacles; obstacles that made you wonder if you should quit and just call it a day, You will want to read this book. If you want a shot of inspiration to get "through it all", then this book is for you, too.

04.03.06 | Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Fight Terrorism and Build Nations... One School at a Time -- This is a story about turning failure into great success. It's about finding a way out of no way, making lemonade out of lemons and the value of "not knowing any better"... This is a story about unselfish ambition and that, I can not resist.

03.27.06 | In Focus: National Geographic Greatest Portraits -- This book offers a fascinating look into other cultures; an opportunity to discover the universality of humanity. The pictures are beautiful. Grab this one for your collection.

03.13.06 | Fabulosity : What It Is and How to Get It -- Kimora Lee Simmons, that's why! She is feisty, bold, self confident and unapologetic about being beautiful and successful - I think that it would be fair to acknowledge that she's got something worthwhile to say.

She shoots straight from the hip with humor and as well as good common sense, but what I really like about Kimora Lee is that she is not afraid of being unpopular.

03.06.06 | C'est La Vie : An American Woman Begins a New Life in Paris and--Voila!--Becomes Almost French -- Well, we have considered moving to Paris one day but, lately it seems like more than just a passing notion. C'est La Vie provides a realistic look not only into what it could be like relocating to one of the greatest cities in the world, but what it could be like to actually make good on your threat to live out your adventure!

02.27.06 | At Home with the Makers of Style by Grant Scoot and Samantha Scott-Jeffries -- This book offers a unique and interesting look into how some of the best interior designers have decorated their own spaces. I love to "peer" into other peoples lives and what an added bonus to find inspiration for how to create ultimate luxury.

02.20.06 | A Piece of Cake by Cupcake Brown -- I can not resist a story about someone who has triumphed over tremendous adversity. Cupcake Brown is a survivor and her story is an affirmation of the strength of the human spirit.

02.06.06 | My New Orleans: Ballads to the Big Easy by Her Sons, Daughters, and Lovers -- My New Orleans gives those people who call New Orleans home, a way to pay tribute and to remember. For those of us who do not know New Orleans, it is an opportunity to learn. This book is a beautiful tribute to a city that many will fight to preserve. While it is unlikely that New Orleans will ever be what it was, what it can become will inevitably be informed by the heart and soul of its past.

01.30.06 | Audrey Hepburn - An Elegant Spirit -- This is a beautiful story with beautiful pictures about a beautiful woman who lived a beautiful life.

01.23.06 | What Remains: A Memoir of Fate, Friendship, and Love -- This is a beautifully written and engaging book about life's extraordinary circumstances - good and painful, and Carole Radziwell's grace and courage are a lesson in living for anyone who wants to live extraordinarily.

12.12.05 | Queens Reigns Supreme -- I think that in order to understand America today, you have got to consider hip hop. This book is an historical look into the origins of the hip hop scene that sprung out of Queens New York in the 80's and 90's and its connection to the crack epidemic. It is a fascinating and insightful read. You won't want to put it down.

"America, love it or leave it" but hip hop is here to stay.

12.05.05 | Michael Smith Elements of Style -- I can't wait to read it myself! It hasn't come out yet but it is highly anticipated.

11.21.05 | Make It Happen: The Hip-Hop Generation Guide to Success -- Being successful is something we all want to hear about from people who are successful. Kevin Liles became successful the old fashioned way. That's right -- he earned it, which means he has also earned the right to tell us a thing or two about what it takes to be a self made success. Kevin Liles keeps it real; very real, all the while encouraging that any one can reach the levels of success that he has reached.

11.14.05 | The Woman at The Washington Zoo -- Marjorie Williams pays a generous, candid and lovely tribute to life. She celebrates life with death knocking at her door and leaves a brilliant legacy behind. As her husband reflects, "She had a gift for seeing people -- whole."

11.07.05 | The Elements of Style Illustrated -- It's a classic. And now with these fun illustrations, it truly is a must have.

10.31.05 | Nobu Now -- Nobu's food is as beautiful as it is delicious. Why not bring it home?

10.24.05 | My Kind Of Place -- Susan Orlean chronicles the adventures that she has in uncommon places. She focuses on the fun and special details in such a way that you experience traveling along with her.

10.17.05 | The New Basics: A-to-Z Baby & Child Care for the Modern Parent -- Michel offers a smart and important perspective on medicine -- or not medicine, as his case, thankfully, sometimes is. He offers a fresh perspective on promoting health for children. He's also Gussie's pediatrician and so I can personally vouch for how wonderful his advice is.

10.10.05 | Creating A Life Worth Living -- Living a worthwhile and satisfying life is an age old pursuit. This book is for anyone who wants to harness creative energy to pursue their unique path. Carol Lloyd offers a concrete, practical and fun program that will support you in discovering your path to living your ideal creative life!

10.03.05 | Alternative Cures -- Alternative Cures became my best friend when I followed Bill Gottlieb's recommendation for curing a cold. I did what he said and I felt better within a couple of hours. I have been following his advice ever since.

09.26.05 | If It Ain't Broke...Break It! --Because sometimes it's necessary to shake up the status quo!

09.19.05 | Loud And Clear -- Because Anna Quindlan offers insightful intelligent commentary about life and the issues that confront us everyday. And, I dunno -- I could use a little bit more insightful, intelligent commentary.

09.12.05 | Style -- Because we all have personal style, some of us are just more deliberate about communicating it than others.

Web Sites

05.18.15 | Miss Moss -- Miss Moss offers a diverse range of music, art, food and fashion recommendations via what other people (often contributors to her blog) think are cool. Plus, she offers incredible music playlists that you can download right off the blog!

Visit their site to learn more...

05.11.15 | TreesForLife.org --

People supporting people to help themselves.

Visit their site to learn more...

05.04.15 | EcoEncore.org -- What a great way to participate in protecting the global environment while cleaning up your own backyard...

04.20.15 | 100 Days of Active Resistance -- Because it promotes the idea of people becoming actively involved in the politics of their community and the world.

04.06.15 | Urban Farm Guys -- These families have put their own comfort and safety on the line, choosing to live and farm in one of the worst communities in the United States for a chance to transform the lives of people who have been without hope.

03.30.15 | Lists of Bests -- Because in the age of Facebook and Twitter and whatever else is coming next, this sounds like fun. We all like telling a friend about a good book that we've just read or a good movie we've just seen. Create a list that others can follow. Check out what other people have on their lists. List of Best offers users a community for sharing what other people are watching, reading and listening to!

Visit their site to learn more...

03.23.15 | The Big Gay Ice Cream Truck -- Fun, funny and gourmet delicious!

03.16.15 | Gutenberg.org -- Project Guttenberg exists out of a commitment that people have books available to them, no matter what. The books are free and downloadable in most cases. They carry the classics and books that can be difficult to find.

Visit their site to learn more...

03.02.15 | Backyard Bill --

I love to people watch. I like to discover what makes interesting people tick. I like great photos. I like Backyard Bill's point of view.

06.30.14 | Book Aid International -- Books provide the doorway into new worlds. Sharing books means sharing new worlds.

02.16.15 | ConcertWindow.com -- How cool to be able to point and click your way to a live music experience anytime and anywhere. While nothing beats the experience of actually being there, this is definitely the next best thing. The future is here!

02.09.15 | 1000 Journals -- Because this is a fascinating experiment in the connection between human beings and explores the notion that art and creativity cannot be owned. Art, the creative process, must be shared.

01.26.15 | Words Without Borders -- "Words Without Borders undertakes to promote international communication through translation of the world's best writing--selected and translated by a distinguished group of writers, translators, and publishing professionals--and publishing and promoting these works (or excerpts) on the web."

01.19.15 | StoryCorps -- Because I think that one of the fundamental desires of every person is the desire to feel connected and listening, really listening, is our access to being connected.

Visit their site to learn more...

01.12.15 | GlobalGirlfriend.com -- Look -

Last week I shared about another site that supports women in being economically empowered. This week I am recommending another site that helps women gain economic security - I think it's that important.

Global Girlfriend supports women around the world by making their artisan quality goods available - to you! Your purchase provides wages, so visit -- often.

Visit their site to learn more...

01.05.15 | GlobalGiving.com -- This organization is about supporting people who have a commitment to give. Global Giving allows for donors to give directly and to track how their donation is making a difference.

Visit their site to learn more...

12.22.14 | BlackHoundNY -- Because don't you get tired of always sending flowers? With Valentines Day coming up, why not send some love by sending something good to eat. The cookies and cakes at The Black Hound are gorgeous, the chocolates are delicious, and ordering is easy.

12.15.14 | AskQuestions.org -- Because media just works better when it responds to the public interest rather than trying to dictate to the public what we should be interested in.

Visit their site to learn more...

12.08.14 | Hollaback! -- It's time that women fight back! Street harassment has been plaguing women for far too long! Let's band together and put an end to this threatening behavior and quite frankly, act of violence toward women.

Visit their site to learn more...

12.01.14 | Vivre.com -- I love this site because I love to be surrounded by beauty and things that dance with the senses; things that inspire. Shop for jewelry, find items for your home, buy gifts for your friends or just visit the site to get great ideas! Visit their site to learn more...

11.24.14 | Feeding America -- Because nobody should go hungry when there is enough food...

Visit their site to learn more...

11.17.14 | PBS -- To highlight the value of PBS and to underscore the contribution that it makes to our everyday life and because an America without PBS, to me, is unimaginable...

Visit their site to learn more...

11.10.14 | Powells.com -- One of my favorite pastimes is searching through books at used bookstores. You never know what you might find. A very successful used bookstore in Portland, Powell's, brings its inventory to you wherever you are - thanks to the Internet. (Plus, I love the story of how they came to be...)

Visit their site to learn more...

10.27.14 | Life Tips -- Because, not only do they provide users with valuable information from some of the most relevant experts around, they built an effective organization the old fashioned way - from the ground up. And, because they are innovators!

Visit their site to learn more...

10.20.14 | Vivian Maier -- This is a great story about a nanny who took photos just about every day of her life. During one of the most interesting times in America, Vivian Maier captures candid moments and in some of the most interesting places. Her photos are amazing but, what is also amazing is that they were never meant for public consumption.

Visit their site to learn more...

10.13.14 | Sergio Vieira de Mello Foundation -- Sergio Vieira de Mello was a true humanitarian. His life was a continuous demonstration of the meaning of true compassion. He was dedicated to human rights around the world and he will be remembered as a great leader whose life ended far too soon and whose legacy lives on in the work of his foundation.

Visit their site to learn more...

09.29.14 | Global Issues.org -- Because the degree to which we can all locate our own self interest in the major issues that exist in the world today, is the degree to which we will all choose to care about getting involved, is the degree to which the world might be a better place for us all.

Visit their site to learn more...

09.15.14 | We Are What We Do -- Because doing something, no matter how small, feels a whole lot better than doing nothing at all...

Visit their site to learn more...

09.08.14 | American Refugee Committee International -- Every time that I see a story in the news about a people suffering as a result of profound and horrific circumstances beyond their control, I find it hard to do nothing. Please visit this site and find out how you can help. No gesture is too small.

Visit their site to learn more...

09.01.14 | TheSelby.com -- Because once you read the book, you are going to want more!

08.25.14 | Redefining Progress -- Because we all have a stake in our global environment and our local communities, thriving and Redefining progress is addressing the world's big problems at the local level. Person by person, block by block, the difference lies with each one of us.

Visit their site to learn more...

08.18.14 | TriggerStreet.com -- Founded by actor Kevin Spacey, TriggerStreet.com is about promoting independent filmmaking...

08.11.14 | Wheels for Humanity -- When there exists, somewhere in the world, advances in science and technology that can improve the quality of life for someone who is physically disabled, I feel compelled to join the effort to make it happen.

Visit their site to learn more...

08.04.14 | Ten Ways to Change the World in Your Twenties -- Because there is no better way to invest in our future then to support young people in fulfilling their commitment to make a difference, this site rocks!

Visit their site to learn more...

07.14.14 | Cross-Cultural Solutions -- Because CSS offers people a way to experience the adventure of traveling around the world while providing an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution as a CSS volunteer to a community in need.

CSS provides you with a safe and professional programs that will handle all of the logistics so that you can concentrate on having the experience of a lifetime.

Visit their site to learn more...

07.07.14 | Free Documentaries.org -- Because the range of subject matter is fantastic and the fact that they offer users the opportunity to see these amazing and informative films for free is - well, does it get any better? For a great way to spend a winter afternoon - hang out on this site! Visit their site to learn more...

06.23.14 | Landfill Harmonic -- This is pure inspiration; a promise to uplift!

Visit their site to learn more...

06.09.14 | Chow.com --When the world of food intersects with cutting edge technology the result is FHOD -"foodie" heaven on demand!

05.19.14 | TreesForLife.org --

People supporting people to help themselves.

Visit their site to learn more...

04.28.14 | FINCA -- This is one of the most exciting programs that I know of! FINCA provides low cost loans to low income entrepreneurs, primarily women, who would otherwise not qualify. This allows them to thrive in their communities and lift themselves out of the grip of poverty. Just an incredible program!

Visit their site to learn more...

04.21.14 | Green Upgrader -- Because it's time to get serious about going all the way green and green UPGRADER helps you transition with little to no pain!

04.14.14 | PoetryFoundation.org -- Few things speak to our souls as beautifully and as powerfully as poetry. The Poetry Foundation's commitment to expand the appreciation of great poets and to increase our access to great poems is important and exciting. Celebrate this rich tradition.

Visit their site to learn more...

04.07.14 | The Urban Farming Guys -- I believe that many of our health problems are preventable if we are willing to eat right and educate ourselves about natural remedies. You'd be surprised at what a clove of garlic, a tablespoon of vinegar or a drop of oil of oregano might cure... The People's Chemist is a powerful resource for learning the healthy facts! Visit their site to learn more...

03.31.14 | Musee-Online.org -- Art is so critical to having an enriched human experience. Musee's objective is to bring as much art to as many people as possible.

Visit their site to learn more...

03.24.14 | MediaStorm.org -- This is an incredible website. Stories of everyday people from around the world - suffering and celebrating life in the most profound and simply beautiful ways - captured in pictures taken by some of the most talented photojournalist, guaranteed to touch your heart and encourage your spirit. Stunning! Awesome!

Visit their site to learn more...

02.24.14 | Small Can Be Big -- Because this is an inspiring example of innovation, compassion, leadership and what it means to be a community. I hope that it is an idea that will catch on. There is no limit to what people in community can accomplish, endure and create when they work together. Pass it on!

02.03.14 | ManhattanFruitier.com -- Well, as nice as it is to get flowers, sometimes a little bit of gourmet fruit provides the perfect sentiment. Whether you want to congratulate someone for a job well done, celebrate an occasion or express your sympathy, -- this time around, do it with fruit. Manhattan Fruitier's Gourmet gift basket's can include specialty nuts, cheeses, CHOCOLATE! They will even deliver ice cream. Now, what could be better?

01.27.14 | Sundance.org -- It's Sundance.


Visit their site to learn more...

01.20.14 | The People's Chemist -- I believe that many of our health problems are preventable if we are willing to eat right and educate ourselves about natural remedies. You'd be surprised at what a clove of garlic, a tablespoon of vinegar or a drop of oil of oregano might cure... The People's Chemist is a powerful resource for learning the healthy facts! Visit their site to learn more...

12.30.13 | Top Documentary Films -- Because Top Documentary Films is an interactive site that makes it easy to browse and watch documentaries, comment on films and share ideas and build community with other documentary film lovers!

Visit their site to learn more...

12.02.13 | Joie de Vivre -- Because I love food and I love anything French!...

11.25.13 | The Forgiveness Project -- Sometimes it is really hard to forgive, especially when we have been badly hurt or devastated or when we feel betrayed. Reading some of these stories that other people have shared with here, has inspired me to let go of some of the things I have been unwilling to forgive.

Visit their site to learn more...

10.07.13 | Global Water -- Because Global Water is in a fight to save lives. Clean water is vital to good health and to overall survival. So many are without fresh water a critical resource that none of us can live without.

Visit their site to learn more...

09.30.13 | The Internet Archive -- The Internet Archive is building a comprehensive digital library of cultural artifacts in digital form. Movies, books, music, pictures and more are being gathered and compiled, making available valuable information and material at no charge!

Visit their site to learn more...

09.16.13 | Running the Sahara -- Because the film, Running the Sahara is transformative. The story of three ordinary men who accomplish the extraordinary through sheer guts, heart, friendship and trust, is confirmation that determination trumps logic.

Visit their site to learn more...

09.09.13 | FrenchPodClass.com -- This site is just another great example of how the world is more available to us than ever before!

The French Pod Class offers an easy going way to learn French and develop a community with others who want to do the same. And Sebastien makes everyone, at whatever level, always feel welcome!

Visit their site to learn more...

09.02.13 | Films101.com -- This site is a film connoisseurs dream. Browse titles and read reviews of only the most celebrated by some of the most credible critics. But -- only if you are a true movie snob... Visit their site to learn more...

08.26.13 | Matador.org -- It just seems to me that lending a hand in a community in need is a great way to take some time off. It's also a great way to make new friends, great memories and a real difference in someone else's life!

Visit their site to learn more...

08.05.13 | GlobalVolunteers.org -- The more I talk to people the more that I am convinced that one way to maintain a sense of happiness and self satisfaction is in reaching out to help another human being. I have never talked met anyone who has shared any sense of regret when they took the time to lend a hand. Global Volunteers offers people the opportunity to have fun while making a real difference in communities that are in need, while also offering an opportunity to discover something new about themselves.

07.29.13 | Dumb Little Man -- Because it offers practical, provocative and often wise advice and allows readers to contribute their own tips and tidbits!

Visit their site to learn more...

07.15.13 | One Nation -- I saw a story on the news recently about a man who had been caught for the second time boarding an airplane under someone else's name. Each time the story was reported there was an emphasis on the fact that the man was Nigerian. I couldn't help but wonder if he had been from Holland or Switzerland if where he was from would have been emphasized.

Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere...

Visit their site to learn more...

06.17.13 | Chow.com --When the world of food intersects with cutting edge technology the result is FHOD -"foodie" heaven on demand!

06.10.13 | STEP UP Women's Network -- Step Up is an organization that exists to support, nurture and encourage one of our most precious resources - our girls, thereby contributing to the overall well being of the world. They have developed a volunteer network that provides yet another valuable resource -

People expanding their capacity to help people...

Visit their site to learn more...

06.03.13 | TheMorningNews.org -- Smart and witty, The Morning News is one of the publications that makes the Internet a superior place to get news and to share ideas. If you like your news straight up with a little provocation then you'll want to bookmark this site.

Visit their site to learn more...

05.13.13 | LocalHarvest.org -- Eating locally means eating healthy and responsibly. Although it might require a little effort at first, it's just smarter and tastier. Plus, what you might sacrifice in convenience, you will more than make up for in developing a quality of life and community that will continue to pay huge dividends.

05.06.13 | Open Course Ware -- First of all, this site really is too good to be true! The opportunity to study at MIT without leaving home - I mean, how can you beat that? Yes you can. It's free. Browse the class list, pick a subject or two then sit back, relax, and take advantage of all of that brain power.

Visit their site to learn more...

04.01.13 | LibriVox -- Listening to books is a great way to catch up on your "reading". Recording books for Librivox is another great way to catch up on your reading that will allow someone else to listen to a book as a great way to catch up on their reading! Visit their site to learn more...

03.25.13 | Green Options -- Because Green Options offers insight, news and valuable information from a variety of credible sources about how to live better by eating well and living GREEN!

03.18.13 | Metropolitan Museum of Art -- Everyday, they feature a new work of art on the website so that, even if you do not live in New York or aren't planning to visit or are not planning to visit, you can still enjoy one of the finest museums in the world. Visit their site to learn more...

03.04.13 | The Greater Boston Food Bank -- I saw Ben Affleck on Hardball with Chris Matthews sharing statistics regarding hunger and the working poor in America. Many of the people who can not afford to feed their families work hard everyday. Many of these people hide the fact that they are often hungry. My experience is that, given a chance to do so, people will help. My experience is that people care...

Visit their site to learn more...

02.04.13 | Freecycle.org -- Freecycle.org promotes people helping people while at the same time contributing to a cleaner more efficient environment.

Visit their site to learn more...

01.21.13 | FeedingAmerica.org -- Because nobody should go hungry when there is enough food...

Visit their site to learn more...

01.14.13 | National Geographic World Music --Experience music from all over the world!

Learn about music you never knew about. Get free music downloads and podcasts with artist interviews and stories.

01.07.13 | DailyLit.com -- I love being transported to somewhere else by a good film but, I am often frustrated by the lack of accessibility of the good films. Film Movement will keep you informed about great award winning films from around the world and will make those movies available to members - sometimes even before the movie is released.

Visit their site to learn more...

12.31.12 | The Everywhereist -- Geraldine invites you to tag along with her as she tags along with her husband on his many travels around the world, and has you laughing all the way back to reality.

Visit their site to learn more...

12.24.12 | Poetry Daily -- The more I learn about poetry, the more I love it. It could be said that life is a poem and if that is true than I believe we are, each one of us, -- it's muse...

Visit their site to learn more...

12.17.12 | LivingRoutes.org -- Because we have to start caring for the planet before it's too late...

Visit their site to learn more...

11.12.12 | Women for Women -- Because I am passionate about women being empowered to empower their communities and because -

I have a great deal of compassion, respect and admiration for survivors.

11.05.12 | Green Pages -- Because this site offers people practical and accessible way to go green – NOW! Visit their site to learn more...

10.01.12 | PBS -- For anyone who is interested in the history of the United States Presidency, this site is invaluable.

Visit their site to learn more...

08.20.12 | Little Free Library -- Remember the slogan “Reading is fundamental�? Little Free Library clearly believes this to be true and sets out to make books accessible to everyone everywhere!

Visit their site to learn more...

07.16.12 | InfoPlease.com -- If you enjoy being able to find out about things you never even knew you wanted to know about - this is the website for you! This site is entertaining as well as educational and serves as an effective, efficient resource guide!

Visit their site to learn more...

07.09.12 | Wine Lovers Page.com -- If you love wine but sometimes get a little intimidated by all that there is to know about how to really enjoy it - this site is for you! It is an easy and fun way to learn about how to appreciate wine.

Take a crash course or take your sweet time...

06.18.12 | Food Matters.tv -- Good food, real food, is essential to leading a healthy, productive and satisfying life. Our idea about what constitutes real food has been so perverted. Food Matters provides invaluable information about food, what to eat and how much if you want to live a longer and better life!

05.21.12 | Ian's Pizza -- Ian's Pizza is providing pizza to the protesters in Madison Wisconsin as a result of generous donations coming in from around the world. IF you are inspired by what is happening in Wisconsin and want to get involved, consider donating to Ian's Pizza!

Visit their site to learn more...

05.28.12 | Bring Your Own Bag -- Investing in reusable bags is a smart, responsible and easy habit to get into. Make it fashionable to care about the environment! BYOB!

05.21.12 | Ian's Pizza -- Ian's Pizza is providing pizza to the protesters in Madison Wisconsin as a result of generous donations coming in from around the world. IF you are inspired by what is happening in Wisconsin and want to get involved, consider donating to Ian's Pizza!

Visit their site to learn more...

04.23.12 | JandLBooks.org -- Because I love and support their intentions!

Visit their site to learn more...

04.16.12 | SaveDarfur.org -- We have the luxury of being able to take so much for granted. Every little bit that we can do to raise awareness about the killing that is going on, will help save lives!

Visit their site to learn more...

04.02.12 | EdibleSchoolyard.org -- Living a great life requires eating great food. Great food is fresh food. The Edible Schoolyard is a brilliant project that teaches kids, not only how to eat well, but also helps to nuture in them a sense of themselves in relationship to nature; where their food comes from. It is a program that encourages kids to take responsibility for the well being of both themselves and the earth that we all share.

Visit their site to learn more...

03.26.12 | Blue Gold: World Water Watrs -- Because the earth is fast becoming a desert unless we stop and start changing our behavior. The water shortage issue is a BIG issue that affects each and every one of us... Visit their site to learn more...

02.20.12 | RedRoom.com -- Have you ever read a good book and then wanted to drop a comment or a question to the author? Maybe you want to find out what other people think about a book that you've just read. Well, now you can do all of that on Red Room, the social network for people who want to talk books with writers or who just want to find out more about the writers they love to read. Visit their site to learn more...

01.30.12 | FilmMovement.com -- If your busy schedule prevents you from being able to enjoy a good book every now and then, have I got the website for you. Daily Lit makes it easy to read the classics by dropping excerpts in your Inbox whenever and however it's best for you. Get your "quick lit" on your laptop, cell phone, desktop, first thing in the morning (right along with your newspaper) or at the end of the day (as a way to relax and unwind).

Visit their site to learn more...

12.12.11 | DonorsChoose.org -- "Here's a really cool site I discovered this last week. I got a $100 gift certificate from eBay to use at this site because I donate a portion of all my painting sales to charitable organizations through their eBay Giving Works program. I had so much fun "spending" my gift certificate. I helped buy art supplies for a Kindergarten class, a pottery wheel for a grade school art class, and supplies for a teen marimba band. It's such a cool set up they've got going on." -- Janece, a satisfied donor

Visit their site to learn more...

12.05.11 | PBS.org -- PBS television has established itself as a trusted place to turn to and tune in to for quality educational programs. PBS.org expands this contribution by offering a range of Internet based services.

Visit their site to learn more...

10.31.11 | Mercola.com -- Dr. Mercola always delivers relevant and important information that supports people in living well. This website and newsletter is an invaluable source of information if you are someone who cares about your health, the environment and social issues that impact all of our lives. Visit their site to learn more...

09.26.11 | VirtualTourist.com -- Because you can get the inside scoop on your desired destination from fellow travelers, honest advice, hotel reviews, secret travel deals – you can even book a flight – all on Virtual Tourist!

Visit their site to learn more...

08.29.11 | Red Cross -- The American Red Cross has launched a major relief operation all along the eastern seaboard to help people in the path of Hurricane Irene. People and communities are in need of help. Please consider giving.

08.08.11 | World Concern.org -- There is a crisis in Somalia. People are in desperate need of help. Please consider giving.

Visit their site to learn more...

04.04.11 | TED.com -- I love learning about new and inspired ideas. The world's greatest minds gathered in one spot to inform and to share is what this site is all about. Fresh thinking. Ted.com is a great place to hang out.

Visit their site to learn more...

01.03.11 | Novica.com -- Because Novica offers talented artists the opportunity to sell their beautiful work around the world, which in turn strengthens communities, promotes art and cultivates sense of connectedness around the world! Visit their site to learn more...

11.22.10 | SustainableTable.org -- This is such a magnificently comprehensive website. It thoroughly defines "sustainability" and its benefits and will leave you clear about why should take this issue very personally and very seriously. A must read for anyone who cares about good health.

Visit their site to learn more...

11.15.10 | MoOM : The Museum Of Online Museums -- Because it's all about art and different places to find interesting art and interesting places to find different art.

09.27.10 | DiamondOrganics.com -- Eating fresh and eating organic is fundamental to living well. But, not everybody has the luxury of easy access to farm fresh, organic food. Diamond Organics delivers what you want, anywhere you are - fresh! Visit their site to learn more...

08.16.10 | PaperCupDesign.com -- I love the art of letter writing and sending hand written notes to people so, I think it's nice to have great looking note cards and stationery.

Paper Cup Design.com has fresh, beautifully designed creations that inspire - make ya wanna write stuff down and send it (so you can show off)

Visit their site to learn more...

08.02.10 | Lemonade.com -- Just when you thought that lemonade stands were just for kids...Lemonade.com offers a way for you to get paid for recommending things that people will want (kind of like offering someone a cold drink on a hot day), while at the same time building a community of online friends. Visit their site to learn more...

07.12.10 | ManyBooks.net -- Free Books! Need I say more? All you need is an iPod and the time it takes to download, and you are in business. Listen to your favorite books while you commute to work or work out at the gym. It is the ultimate in multi-tasking!

04.26.10 | OneBag.com -- American Airlines is now charging $15.00 to check your first bag and the other airlines are sure to do the same - soon! Maximize by minimizing. It really has come down to this... Visit their site to learn more...

03.22.10 | Axis of Justice -- Because I applaud people who are willing, wherever and however they are, to put themselves on the line and do something; start something. And, because anybody who is committed to promoting social change at the grassroots level is somebody who I want to know more about.

01.25.10 | Peace Jam -- Because the Peace Jam offers an urgent invitation for people to get involved now and because that invitation targets young people who are tomorrow's ultimate promise.

Visit their site to learn more...

08.10.09 | Mental Floss.com -- Because it's a fun and addictive way to acquire arbitrary bits of sometimes useful and always interesting information! Visit their site to learn more...

04.13.09 | Heifer International -- Because promoting sustainability is an effective approach in the fight against poverty and hunger. Heifer international has created a program that "teaches people how to fish", and empowering them to teach others. They have been recognized around the world for lifting families and communities out of poverty. Learn how you can get involved!

Visit their site to learn more...

03.16.09 | Books for Soldiers -- Because I can't imagine what it might be like to have limited access to books and other reading material. This website offers such an easy way to make such a big difference in the lives of those serving in the military. Visit their site to learn more...

02.09.09 | eHow.com -- Because I love the convenience of being able to instantly find out about - just about anything! Read articles, watch videos, even form chat groups on this site that combines the fun of social networking with the satisfaction of learning about all kinds of stuff!

01.19.09 | The Green Guide -- Because if we all just do a little bit from right where we are, we can transform the planet! Visit their site to learn more...

12.22.08 | Free Documentaries.org -- Because the range of subject matter is fantastic and the fact that they offer users the opportunity to see these amazing and informative films for free is - well, does it get any better? For a great way to spend a winter afternoon - hang out on this site! Visit their site to learn more...

12.15.08 | PodioBooks.com -- For busy people with little or now time to read what you want to read as opposed to what you must read, this is a great way to "find the time". Visit their site to learn more...

12.08.08 | FreeRice.com -- If you like playing games and learning while you do, and if you like the idea of being able to contribute food to people who are hungry, than you will love Free Rice.com. The more you play, the more fun you'll have, the more you'll learn and the more hungry people will have to eat. Play and have fun. Give and feel great!

10.13.08 | zReportage.com -- Beautiful pictures that jump off the page and stories in search of a thoughtful audience, is what you will consistently find on this site. If you are someone who appreciates learning about important stories in depth, then you are someone who will visit zReportage often.

Visit their site to learn more...

09.29.08 | eBooks.com -- Ever found out about a good book in the middle of the night? Ever wanted to read a good book but you just couldn't find the time? Ever wanted to take a good book with you on a trip but you just didn't have the room to pack not one more thing? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions (and even if you didn't), you need eBooks. eBooks - for when you have to have the book now!

Visit their site to learn more...

09.01.08 | SuTree.com -- What did we do before the Internet?

In an age where we can go online and find information about nearly anything that might cross our minds, Sutree.com offers a way to learn by watching. By organizing content submitted by other users who have found useful, informative video clips, Sutree.com has built a community of people sharing interesting bits of information.

Visit their site to learn more...

08.04.08 | ARunningStart.org -- A Running Start.org offers the opportunity to give a little to help children and young people in a very BIG way!

Visit their site to learn more...

07.21.08 | TruthDig.com -- Truth is a rare commodity these days. Truth Dig offers a deeper more thoughtful look at the issues that matter to our daily lives, providing a credible source for getting information straight up.

Visit their site to learn more...

06.30.08 | Kiva.com -- It's always nice to give. Sometimes it's nicer to be able to give directly to someone that you choose to give to, leaving you free from having to wonder if or how your gift made a difference. Kiva offers you the opportunity to give directly to a real person with a real need and, a commitment themselves, to make a difference.

Visit their site to learn more...

05.19.08 | Raw-Bags.com -- Raw Bags makes totes out of old newspapers, which is a great way to participate in being environmentally responsible. And, these bags look great filled with flowers, a baguette and a good book hanging out... Visit their site to learn more...

04.28.08 | Yapta.com -- This site is practical. Save time. Save money. Get your money back if the airline lowers the price of your ticket after you buy it. What more could you want?

Visit their site to learn more...

04.14.08 | NobelPrize.org -- This site is exciting!

There are few honors as prestigious as the Nobel Prize and to be able to access information about the history of the prize and its recipients is - awesome. Guaranteed to inspire!

Visit their site to learn more...

03.10.08 | Political Gate --Headlines! Headlines! Headlines! Right at your fingertips. All at once. All on one page.

02.11.08 | ê Shave -- My husband uses ê Shave products and gets the most marvelous shaves! And their products feel great on the skin and smell wonderful!

02.04.08 | Newseum.org -- Our daily lives are undeniably impacted by:

What has happened, what is happening and what will happen.

I am fascinated by what happened before, during and after and Newseum brings all of it to you at once. What I like most about this site, however is Today's Front Pages, which organizes and aggregates front pages from newspapers all over the country.

This, this is why I love the INTERNET! Visit their site to learn more...

12.10.07 | MarieBelle.com -- Je parle francais? No worries. At MarieBelle's - as long as you speak chocolate, then you will feel right at home. Everything at MarieBelle New York is wonderfully French and deliciously decadent. The staff is warm and friendly and tres, tres chic. Shop online and treat yourself or, next time instead of flowers -

send MarieBelle Chocolate to your friends!

If you love chocolate, then MarieBelle's is a must! Visit their site to learn more...

12.03.07 | HowStuffWorks.com -- This site offers a fun way to discover how the things that we count on everyday, do what they do.

I am always curious about the way things work and I am convinced that one of the secrets to being a "black-belt multi-tasker" is in understanding how things work and why they work the way that they do.

11.26.07 | EcoEncore.org -- What a great way to participate in protecting the global environment while cleaning up your own backyard...

Visit their site to learn more...

10.15.07 | National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.org -- October is breast cancer awareness month. I support this effort to increase awareness of this devastating disease.

Visit their site to learn more...

07.16.07 | My Registry.com -- Last week I was sending a gift to friend and I found myself thinking that if she had a personal gift registry I wouldn't have to “hope� that she would like what I was sending. Then I thought that somebody should create a gift registry for everyone and every occasion. Someone should create a way for people to create a list so that their friends never have to wonder about what to get them for any occasion. Someone should do that.

Someone has...

Visit their site to learn more...

06.25.07 | Words Without Borders -- "Words Without Borders undertakes to promote international communication through translation of the world's best writing--selected and translated by a distinguished group of writers, translators, and publishing professionals--and publishing and promoting these works (or excerpts) on the web."

05.28.07 | Wine Library TV -- Learn a lot about wine and be thoroughly entertained while you do... This guy is good...

Visit their site to learn more...

04.16.07 | Recchiutti Chocolate -- Can you ever get enough chocolate, really? (Especially really great chocolate...) Visit their site to learn more...

04.09.07 | Starbury.com -- Stephon Marbury is making a real difference for young people and their parents by providing quality athletic shoes at an affordable price, proving that it is possible to make a profit without exploitation. Visit their site to learn more...

03.26.07 | PodioBooks.com -- For busy people with little or now time to read what you want to read as opposed to what you must read, this is a great way to "find the time". Visit their site to learn more...

03.19.07 | Pure Style -- Jane Cumberbatch makes simple beautiful, while making living beautifully simple. I love her practical approach, her thoughtful editing and her devotion to pretty things... Visit their site to learn more...

03.12.07 | WolfgangsVault.com -- I've listened to live recorded concerts of Sly and the Family Stone, The Doors, Jimi Hendrix... history at your fingertips, the greatest music on demand... fascinating! Visit their site to learn more...

03.05.07 | Zunafish.com -- Just the other day I was wishing that I could do something with all of my old DVDs. I was hating the feeling that I had wasted my money on movies that I had seen one or two or three times and that I would probably not want to see again. Plus - they were taking up space. Zunafish solved that problem by offering me a way to shop without spending money. You've got to love that! Visit their site to learn more...

02.26.07 | Mercola.com -- Well it's not sexy but then neither is bad health. Dr. Mercola will keep you regularly updated on all things relevant to your good health. With articles, video clips, interviews and an archive that you could get lost in. Sign up for his newsletter and make a move to drastically improve your quality of life. Visit their site to learn more...

02.12.07 | Pandora.com -- I like the music that I like. I love falling in love with a song the very first time that I hear it and I don't like having to listen to a song over and over again just so I don't mind listening to it. Pandora promises to customize music for you based on your personal taste. How cool is that? Visit their site to learn more...

02.05.07 | EcoEncore.org -- What a great way to participate in protecting the global environment while cleaning up your own backyard...

Visit their site to learn more...

01.29.07 | Politico.com -- This is a site dedicated to objective up-to-the-moment political reporting. A necessary informational tool as we in the United States, examine the state of the union...

Visit their site to learn more...

01.22.07 | Blinx.tv -- I like to visit this site when I need to find video clips of the latest hot topics -- quickly. It's an easy way to get up to pop culture speed...

Visit their site to learn more...

01.08.07 | Alibris.com -- This is a great site for finding books that are out of print or hard to find. In addition, the prices are often lower than traditional online bookseller sites...

Visit their site to learn more...

01.01.07 | Heifer International.org -- "Heifer programs provide a proven, sustainable solution to hunger, and where hunger ends, peace can begin."

Visit their site to learn more...

12.25.06 | Wine.com -- New Year 's Eve is upon us and beyond that, great wine and champagne serve to enhance any occasion. Wine.com offers quality while specializing in gift giving. They also offer experts who will assist you in making great choices!

Visit their site to learn more...

12.18.06 | Dancing Deer Baking Company -- Cookies and baked treats are great gifts to give at the holidays. If you don't have time to do the baking yourself - FEAR NOT! Dancing Deer bakes and delivers all while being creative and socially conscious...

Visit their site to learn more...

12.04.06 | CharityIs.com -- In addition to appreciating the work that they are doing, I love the story behind this organization.

Visit their site to learn more...

11.20.06 | The New York Blackhound -- Delicious cakes and cookies make a beautiful presentation for the holidays. Order for your own holiday entertaining or send them to your friends as holiday gifts. Ordering is easy and delivery is fast.

Visit their site to learn more...

11.13.06 | BarefootContessa.com -- It is Thanksgiving once again and so, time to think about gathering together to eat! Ina Garten has a special talent that combines delicious food with great style and thoughtfulness – just the perfect recipe for having a great time with good people.

Visit their site to learn more...

10.30.06 | Gather.com -- It is about people connecting and sharing ideas...

Visit their site to learn more...

10.23.06 | Book Aid International -- Books provide the doorway into new worlds. Sharing books means sharing new worlds.

Visit their site to learn more...

10.16.06 | MaxBrenner.com -- Anyone who can create chocolate as a state of mind and advocate for a culture of chocolate is alright by me... You go Max!

Visit their site to learn more...

10.09.06 | National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.org -- October is breast cancer awareness month. I support this effort to increase awareness of this devastating disease.

Visit their site to learn more...

09.11.06 | Yelp.com -- Because it offers useful and real advice from people who have already been where you want to go, who have already done what it is you want to do...

Visit their site to learn more...

09.04.06 | GlobalTable.com -- Beautiful and amazing tableware - worldly and sophisticated at down to earth prices!

Visit their site to learn more...

08.28.06 | MrChocolate.com -- Chocolate! D-E-L-I-C-IO-U-S Chocolate!!

Visit their site to learn more...

08.07.06 | CurrentTV.com -- In August of 2005, in response to an imbalance of power in the media world, Al Gore offered an alternative. And the rest is making history.

Visit their site to learn more...

07.31.06 | PetesGourmet.com -- Pete Croyle's Mallows are a delicious treat and a sophisticated way to enjoy a childhood favorite. Try them on your next S'more...

Visit their site to learn more...

07.24.06 | Paper-Source.com --

I have an obsession with journals, notepads and stationery. The Paper source offers paper that inspires. Beautiful patterns and creative surprises that make you just want to write something down on - PAPER!

Visit their site to learn more...

07.17.06 | SabonNYC.com --

I use these products and they are wonderful! The fragrances alone make showering an occasion to look forward to. Lemon Basil, Orange Ginger, Tropic, Apple Lavender - are just a few of my favorite scents, but the Bath Scrub is the must have-

"Our famous "must-have" body scrub has all the exfoliating power of sea salts and all the moisturizing power of Macadamia, almond and soy bean oils."

Leaves your skin fragrant, silky and brand new.

Visit their site to learn more...

07.10.06 | TreesForLife.org --

People supporting people to help themselves.

Visit their site to learn more...

07.03.06 | Alibris.com -- Alibris offers books that are hard to find or out of print. Because you can search by date, subject or author it is easy to discover great books that you have never even heard.

I found a great book on this site that was written in 1910...

Visit their site to learn more...

06.12.06 | GraciousLiving.com -- From the practical to the luxuriously self indulgent, Gracious Home.com carries pretty useful things for your home. I love their Laundress wash in lavender. Great for rinsing and aromatherapy. Browse the site and you will surely find –

Just-what-you-need-but-didn't-know-it,

or

Just-what-you-didn't-even-know-you-wanted-but-now-you-have-to-have!

Visit their site to learn more...

05.29.06 | My Registry.com -- Last week I was sending a gift to friend and I found myself thinking that if she had a personal gift registry I wouldn't have to “hope� that she would like what I was sending. Then I thought that somebody should create a gift registry for everyone and every occasion. Someone should create a way for people to create a list so that their friends never have to wonder about what to get them for any occasion. Someone should do that.

Someone has...

Visit their site to learn more...

05.22.06 | DashwoodBooks.com -- I accidentally stumbled upon this photography bookstore and I was impressed by the quality of the collection of books. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that you can order books from their site.

Visit their site to learn more...

05.15.06 | indieWIRE.com -- If you are someone who is interested in film, good film, then bookmark this site. indieWIRE.com is a leading source for what is new in the world of independent film making, and considered the best site among the best in the industry.

Visit their site to learn more...

05.08.06 | INsiderNYC.com -- Why wouldn't i?

Visit their site to learn more...

04.24.06 | JackSpade.com -- Just a little something for the guys...

Visit their site to learn more...

04.03.06 | MarieBelle.com -- Je parle francais? No worries. At MarieBelle's – as long as you speak chocolate, then you will feel right at home. Everything at MarieBelle New York is wonderfully French and deliciously decadent. The staff is warm and friendly and tres, tres chic. Gussie and I stopped in for a Chocolat Chaud on Friday afternoon and we didn't want to leave. Shop online and treat yourself or, next time instead of flowers –

send MarieBelle Chocolate to your friends!

If you love chocolate, then MarieBelle's is a must!

Visit their site to learn more...

03.27.06 | Push.net -- Because exercise is one of those things that we have to deal with sooner or later – like it or not, why not try Push.net? In this era of high tech, PUSH offers you a way to create, with their experts, a customized workout that fits your life and your personal needs. Then they mail a new workout program and trainer to you every month on DVD.

Visit their site to learn more...

03.20.06 | MXYPLYZYK.com -- When isn't it time to find the perfect gift for someone in your life? MXYPLYZYK is the perfect place to find the perfect stylish gift. Don't let the fact that you will never be able to pronounce the name (I have never figured it out) scare you away. This place is a real find...

03.13.06 | Gridskipper.com -- This is just a fun and easy way to find out about what is going on in urban cities all over the world. Get ideas about where to go. Find out more about where you are going, including great deals, or just live vicariously...

03.06.06 | blinkx.tv -- Blinkx.tv features a collection of video clips from around the Web. Blinkx also offers a freely downloadable search toolbar that automatically links to relevant information on the Web, such as blogs, video, and broadcast news-or to files on your desktop such as PDFs, Microsoft Word documents, and MP3s.

02.27.06 | Zip Car.com -- I had never heard of this company and the unique service they provide until recently. Zip Car.com is great because it provides a hassle-free way for urban dwellers to drive around because -

the locations are convenient, the prices are less than traditional rent-a-car services, now insurance or parking to worry about, plus they have an environmental conscious... Right on!

02.20.06 | Food 411.com -- I consider myself a "Foodie". I love to cook, but I love to eat even more. Watching The Food Network is one of my favorite past times so when I discovered that there was an "everything food" website...

I discovered a slice of HEAVEN ON EARTH!

01.16.06 | FlavorPill.com -- New, great, interesting stuff is popping up every second. Flavorpill.com navigates through all of what is out there in new music, books, art, film, theatre and emails its findings directly to your inbox. Save time. Be informed. Have fun.

01.09.06 | TV.com -- Because I am a pop culture junkie which means that I am addicted to television. This site is a great tool to help you navigate through all that is out there and on the tube. Plus, they offer bonus material and features!

12.12.05 | Charles and Marie.com -- This is a very cool site for anyone who is interested in discovering very cool things and not-so-easy-to-find stuff. Charles and Marie travel the world always looking for the next 'cool thing". Why not make them you Lifestyle Navigators or simply live vicariously...

12.05.05 | JiWire.com -- Wireless technology is not only convenient, it is the future. JiWire provides important information that will bring you up to speed and support you in navigating the brave new world of wireless technology.

11.28.05 | LindaMason.com -- Linda's products are beautiful. She is masterful at what she does. Whether you are interested in make up as an art form or commissioning Linda to do a personal portrait, the beauty of her work, inspires.

11.21.05 | Moda-mia.com -- I am a firm believer that it is powerful to dance to the beat of your own drum. "Cookie cutter" anything simply bores me to tears. Like your fingerprint, your sense of style should be your very own. Moda-Mia creates designs that are as fresh as they are unique.

11.14.05 | Metacritic.com -- If you like to find out what other people -- the experts -- are saying about a movie, book, music or television show before you make up your own mind anyway, then this is a good resource for you.

Metacritic summarizes all of those opinions in one convenient place. It's new and exciting! It's One-Stop-Criticism.

11.14.05 | NYCMadeForYou.com -- If you are planning on visiting New York City, why not let somebody else take some of the guess work off your hands? Think of them as your own personal concierge.

11.07.05 | ManhattanFruitier.com -- Well, as nice as it is to get flowers, sometimes a little bit of gourmet fruit provides the perfect sentiment. Whether you want to congratulate someone for a job well done, celebrate an occasion or express your sympathy, -- this time around, do it with fruit. Manhattan Fruitier's Gourmet gift basket's can include specialty nuts, cheeses, CHOCOLATE! They will even deliver ice cream. Now, what could be better?

10.31.05 | TunstullStudio.com -- Glen Tunstull has a unique and thoughtful approach to his painting. He is exceptionally inspired and his warmth and sensitivity are captured in each one of his strokes. For a simple way to send a beautiful experience to your friends, check out his paintings as postcards!

10.17.05 | Jack's Coffee -- Jack's Coffee is not just a drink, it's a movement! And, Jack Mazzola is not just a guy, he is community personified. His coffee is organic, politically correct and great tasting, and the Jack Mazzola vibe is the secret ingredient.

10.10.05 | Electroglyph -- The Internet is becoming increasingly more relevant to our everyday lives. Everyday we are experiencing an explosion of information and opportunity online. The possibilities are endless. Chances are you may have considered creating a website of your own or upgrading a site that you already have. If so, you will want to check out Electroglyph. Paul Moment is the senior designer and his brilliance and attention to detail are very unique. And his team is unrivaled.

09.26.05 | Portero.com -- Because Portero specializes in luxury items (valued at $100 and above) and pledges to handle your items with the care that they deserve. They also take a lot of work off of your hands in the process!

09.19.05 | Craigslist -- Because craigslist.org has taken the classified ad and turned it into a way to create -- COMMUNITY!

09.12.05 | American Red Cross -- Because the survivors of Hurricane Katrina (and now Hurricane Rita) need our help.

08.22.05 | ê Shave -- My husband uses ê Shave products and gets the most marvelous shaves! And their products feel great on the skin and smell wonderful!

08.15.05 | Words Without Borders -- "Words Without Borders undertakes to promote international communication through translation of the world's best writing--selected and translated by a distinguished group of writers, translators, and publishing professionals--and publishing and promoting these works (or excerpts) on the web."

07.25.05 | CarnetTravels.com -- Whether or not you will use this service, it's -- just fun!

07.11.05 | Black Hound New York Bakery -- "Black Hound New York has been dedicated to the art and craft of baking and chocolate making since 1988. Our creations reflect our passion for unique flavor combinations, extraordinary taste, and artful presentation."