Relationships and Going Places

Julia Sneden writes: Surely, I thought, people have observed and learned a lesson from the large urban areas in the northeast and far west — but no, our small cities have replicated the poor planning and nutty zoning that have allowed the destruction of roadside beauty all over the country. We're right up there with the big guys. The roads that lead into our towns and cities are lined with fast-food joints and factories and car dealerships and shopping centers, so that reaching the center of town seems to take forever. more »

Donor-conceived children argue that donors should be subjected to better medical screenings. Generally, donors are only tested for sexually transmitted diseases. There are no laws requiring medical testing for genetic diseases or requiring that donors – usually in their 20s at the time of donation — update medical information as they age and inherited diseases may surface. more »

"Until the discovery of Nathaniel Gould's 18th century account books at the Massachusetts Historical Society in 2009, many of his pieces were mis-attributed, or listed as 'unknown cabinetmaker, Salem.' Now, over 20 pieces have been firmly attributed to Gould’s shop. Audacious features the Montalto Bohlen Collection with alluring surfaces and textures made from familiar and exotic woods some displayed in vessels, bowls and vases while others are completely abstract, emphasizing form over function. more »

This is what I miss, from my marriage, from my husband. The toe-to-toe enveloping, the hug. Tommy was low maintenance, helpful around the house, had interests that matched mine, and most importantly, thought I walked on water. I told my daughter, "I'm not ready to date, and I can't imagine sharing my new life with anyone, but I miss spooning. It's a bedtime perk I pine for." more »