Why I leave my heart in other countries Costa Rica, Take Three. I’m leaving for Costa Rica on Saturday at 6 am. It will be my third trip. This volcanic mountainous strip of Latin America, with multiple microclimates, is half the size of Virginia. I've swum in hot...

5 ways to add value to someone's life (because everyone's a teacher) I teach high school English. We've been having fun with super-heroes and poetry and Scattergories and definitions of culture. This year, I'm covering ancient world literature and writing. Regardless...

3 Reasons the seasons are good for you It's happening. (Well, maybe.) The leaves are turning yellow and falling, but that might be from our Indian summer. We’ve got 90s in late September and no rain since I can’t remember when. Autumn is on its way, even though...

Why I dislike September but love October Is September over yet? I'm ready to be done with it. I prefer October. In fact, I absolutely love October as much as I dislike September. Here’s why: It’s my birthday month. It’s not hot anymore. The autumn leaves in...

The value of remembering 9/11 I vividly remember 9/11. I was sitting on my loveseat in the living room for quick mental break with the Today Show before I sat down to finish up my plans for my son’s birthday on the following day. Katie Couric and Matt Lauer were...