5 English Classic Romance Novels Featuring Strong Women

The articulate, ambitious, and passionate ‘English lady’ stereotype exists in part because of the English romance novels that have created her. She is independent and strong-willed, and knows what she wants from love. The world adores her, creating literary tours, tea varieties, and instagram giveaways to help readers pay homage to her. Where in literature … More 5 English Classic Romance Novels Featuring Strong Women

Greek Week: A Culinary Adventure

This past week has been ‘Greek Week’ at our home. Every night we’ve tried out a new Greek dish in an attempt to escape to this beautiful island-rich country. Our minds have been educated and entertained, while our bellies have been filled with Greece’s finest dishes, all made with plants (since half of us are vegetarians). … More Greek Week: A Culinary Adventure

Living in Europe: Precursors to “The Sendai Test”

I can’t believe I’m here, I thought to myself as I walked through a German university campus. The side of one old stone building caught my eye: it was covered in vines that were brilliant green and red on that late October day. As I continued walking towards my bus from a building that had … More Living in Europe: Precursors to “The Sendai Test”

Panov’s Wreaths: A Christmas Story

In our local writer’s group this year, it was decided that everyone would write a holiday story, in 1,000 words or less, to read at our Christmas party. Here’s mine. It’s 998 words, a modern interpretation of Tolstoy’s short story ‘Papa Panov’s Special Christmas,’ and my first attempt at fiction in many, many years. Based … More Panov’s Wreaths: A Christmas Story

Hygge Me: Design & Wellbeing in Denmark

I first encountered a Danish design interior in Romania, strangely enough. While volunteering there, I met a Dane working for the Danish embassy in Bucharest, and was absolutely amazed by how I felt after walking into her beautifully designed apartment. The environment was clean and modern, with Scandinavian furniture and lighting of higher quality and … More Hygge Me: Design & Wellbeing in Denmark

Book Review: Transatlantic by Colum McCann

One of the current literary greats of Ireland is Colum McCann. Having written seven novels and three collections of short stories, his work is thoughtful, expansive, and poetic. Currently living in New York, McCann has made a name for himself by writing for international publications such as the New York Times, The New Yorker, Esquire, … More Book Review: Transatlantic by Colum McCann