Inside this issue: June 2009

When was the last time you went an entire day without thinking about money? If you can’t recall, you’re not alone. The recession is taking a toll on our national psyche—creating stress-related illnesses and sleepless nights. We’re anxious and fearful. Our optimism has waned...

Inside this issue: May 2009

My favorite boutique is just a 10-minute walk from my home, right downtown. It’s pricey, but I love to browse—and rarely leave without a little mood boost in the shape of, say, a Theory T-shirt. The saleswomen are always friendly. Still it surprised me when one day they told me they’d set aside a purple cashmere sweater they’d noticed I’d loved. "It’s going on sale, so we put it aside for you in case...

Inside this issue: April 2009

April 15 usually conjures up one image—and it doesn't come in glorious colors or heavenly scents. But I still think of April 15 as the exact date that my parents' magnolia tree blossomed, its intoxicating perfume wafting through our windows...

Inside this issue: March 2009

Feeling overwhelemed by a massive to-do list? You’re not alone. According to an annual survey conducted by the American Psychological Association (APA), more Americans reported stress-related fatigue, feelings of irritability or anger, and sleep deprivation in 2008 than in 2007.

Inside this issue: February 2009

Even before our first child was out of diapers, we started researching schools. Obsessive? Perhaps. But we weren’t alone. Education is so vital that many parents willingly relocate, put off vacations, and even puzzle over algebra (again), after a long day at work. Why? It’s simple—we want the best for our children. And luckily for parents in the Suburban Essex area, the “best” is all around; local schools consistently rank among the top in statewide surveys. There’s just one little problem with having such a rich cluster of fine schools available. With so many good choices—public, private, and independent—how do you choose?

Inside this issue: Winter 2008

My first ferry ride to Manhattan was on a bleak, drizzly afternoon, and I was as jittery as a gerbil, worried about my first day on a new job. But as the boat set off from Weehawken and began to glide across the water, I was suddenly mesmerized, staring like a wide-eyed Texan at a city that appeared as glamorous as a Tiffany’s window.

Inside this issue: November 2008

Recently, a friend asked me to write a letter she could sent out in an effort to inspire donations to an African orphanage. I’m ashamed to admit it, but my first thought was: I’m too busy! Luckily, the words that came out of my mouth were: "Sure, I’d be happy to."

Inside this issue: October 2008

We can all claim bragging rights to the world’s best theater. After all, in less than an hour we can roar with the crowd at a 42nd Street musical, marvel as Ralph Fiennes inhabits Shakespeare’s Hamlet, or seek the existential meaning of an innovative play. But how often do we actually take in a NYC show? Twice a year, three times, tops?

Inside this issue: September 2008

I'm a decorating addict. Though far from an expert, like many of us, I can't resist a design magazine. We imagine the possibilities—that soft yellow chair in the living room, that sky-blue paint for the bedroom. Some dream of their perfect home, and are always in the process of creating it. As you’ll see in our feature on Home Makeovers, dreams can become reality.