An Unexpected Chapter

Historic homes have a multitude of obstacles to contend with in the best of times. Their limited resources are often spread thin, covering everything from house repairs and renovations to ever-changing advances in technology. In a world where interest in history seems to be waning, the often-underpaid and overworked staff at these iconic sites work …

Mysterious Prague

Earlier this year, my husband and I trekked halfway across the globe to Prague and Vienna. We like to travel during the off-season to avoid the crowds but often that means enduring winter chills and businesses closed for the season. While always beautiful, Eastern Europe in mid-March can be dark and frigidly cold. Determined to …

Let’s keep listening

My love for historic homes began with a white, stately mansion in the hills of Oakland, California. I remember walking up the long and winding driveway to the Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate with my family, catching that first glimpse of the majestic house through the trees. It always took my breath away. Whether there for …

As Ever – Betty Guy

I will never forget Betty Guy, a truly remarkable woman with a life story worthy of an epic novel. It was the brilliant John Steinbeck who introduced us - indirectly of course. And it was a red raincoat that ultimately brought our paths together. Betty's legacy will live on through the many inspiring and beautiful …

Portland’s Legacy: The Pittock Mansion

The light changes by the moment, filtered through quickly moving clouds that bring a fickle combination of rain and breaking sun. The grand stairway darkens as droplets patter at the windows. Through the hall just opposite, bright rays perfectly illuminate the gilded music room. The majestic old home bathes in the changing light, as it …

Beverly Cleary’s Portland

When I was a kid, I anxiously awaited summer - not just for the break from school - but for the chance to read whatever I wanted to my heart's content. It was the decade before smart phones, DVRs and the distraction of technology. I feel so lucky that I was able to enjoy a …

Tattered pages, inspiring words

From Where I Sit: In the Vineyards of Napa Valley > Published in the UCDavis College of Letters & Science Alumni Magazine, Spring 2014 > PDF Article The beauty here in Napa Valley astounds me. As I drive down Highway 29 through Napa, making my way through lush vineyards, I feel lucky to call this …

Savoring the journey

As I trudge uphill, my thoughts focus on the summit. My muscles burn, my heart pumps, and I wonder how many more bends in the road are ahead. I curse the seemingly endless rocky hills. Once the summit is reached, I catch my breath and do my best to enjoy the view, though often I …

Through Younger Eyes…

It's been several months since my last post about Jack London's Wolf House in Glen Ellen, Ca. I returned there today and was again inspired by the beauty and history of the place. This time I visited with a good friend and her family, including her two young sons. Seeing the place through the boys' …

A White Bird Flying

Her home was warm and welcoming. I always knew her kind smile and comforting words were close within reach. I was lucky to live just down the street from my grandmother for nine years, during which we  became close friends. She shared her experiences of living through the past decade, of the changes that she …