July 2, 2020
by jenniferpuryear
Today’s post in the “Life in America” series belongs to Brigitte Arenhold Porter, who grew up in Germany during World War II… “I witnessed humanity at its very core when the US Allied forces liberated my old hometown in 1945. The Americans had ordered houses to be unlocked and all inhabitants assembled in one room. When the soldiers left, the black sergeant took the time …
June 30, 2020
by jenniferpuryear
July 4th is an All-American opportunity for the entrepreneurs among us! This year, in particular, many will also reflect on the ways we must continue to improve as a country. On the ways we have failed. Today I would love to spotlight and honor some wonderful traditions, a terrific family, and the beautiful truth – I believe – that we are all in this together. …
June 28, 2020
by jenniferpuryear
This week I’ll feature a variety of folks thinking about life in America in the time of corona, and I’m happy for Kalinda Fisher to lead us off! She has one of the coolest July 4th stories I’ve ever heard. And such an earnest, hopeful voice. Sometimes – in moments I’m not proud of – I am tempted to despair for our country. But not …
June 27, 2020
by jenniferpuryear
“Wherever there are four Episcopal priests, there is always a fifth,” it has been noted, with a sly smile. In particular, Mary Laurie Cece’s father used to say this (an Episcopal priest and college professor himself). Mary Laurie recently recounted this to her four grown kids, living at home. “What’s a fifth?” one of them asked. For those under 25: it’s a handle. These are the …
June 21, 2020
by jenniferpuryear
Three summers ago my parents and I sat on a bench waiting for the theater doors to open in Interlochen, Michigan, where my older daughter was at an arts camp. My dad could still travel and remember his days (and – as a sidenote – I could still fit in that dress). Harder days have come – and stranger days, too. Sorrow comes for us …
June 18, 2020
by jenniferpuryear
The Family Satz doesn’t do things halfway. They’re all in! Easter AND Passover. Salty and sweet. Stay up late, get up early. Laughter and tears. Three dogs and a black cat named Spot. Today, Kate Satz (aka “Spicy K”) and her daughter Maclin settle in and stay for a while…
June 16, 2020
by jenniferpuryear
Vanderbilt Chancellor Emeritus Nick Zeppos and his wife Lydia Howarth are figuring out life in the time of retirement, corona-style. Lydia’s doodling during Zoom calls and “expanding her gardening empire”; Nick’s grilling and chilling and getting ready to teach law again in the fall. They’re both worried about the state of affairs in our country, a lot; they’re both eating fewer carbs. You won’t be …
June 11, 2020
by jenniferpuryear
Last night a few girlfriends came over and sat on the back patio and visited for a little while. We started talking about hard things. Things in the news. “You’re a little defensive,” one of my friends noted gently, with love. And it was true. It is good to let down your guard with friends – and it is good when they help you see …
June 9, 2020
by jenniferpuryear
I sometimes feel despair when I read the news in the morning. Maybe you’re feeling it too, but for different reasons. Can you and I possibly get to a place of collective hope? Where we can together be proud of our country and also have the energy to keep forming a more perfect union? “We’ll get through this,” said one of my friends. And I …
June 7, 2020
by jenniferpuryear
Only watch this video if you want to cry. I suppose I thank God for tears. The Nashville studio musician collective “Ten Two Six” recorded this version of “It Is Well With My Soul” by cell phone some weeks ago. I am reminded of what a stunningly beautiful and harmonious city and country we can be – and that we are – in many ways. …