Genealogy is all about names. We find most records through surnames, and then narrow the search with given names. But too many of us search only for the perfect match. Close counts not only in horseshoes but also in heritage hunting. ...more

January 4, 2009

In the midst of moving merriment, I somehow found time to drive to Borders to exchange a cookbook I received for Christmas. I'm miserable at returning things — sometimes a veritable coward and procrastinator. However, when it's a cookbook, no arm-twisting is necessary. After 45 minutes of chewing my options in the cookbook aisles, I made my way to the checkout clutching "Top Chef" host Padma Lakshmi's newest book, "Tangy Tart Hot & Sweet: A World of Recipes for Every Day." The path to the cashier led me through the bargain book section, where I scanned the cookbooks. ...more

January 16, 2008

SEBRING — With a smile on her face, Magda Marek drags out the hose and waters plants in her garden every morning. The 82-year-old doesn't consider it a chore at all as she performs the daily ritual. She even sings or talks to the plants on the patio outside her home at Kenilworth Care and Rehabilitation Center. Her personality shows that she loves every second on life, even more perhaps because of her amazing tale of survival. ...more

September 22, 2007