Nikki Mastro

I say that my home is part house and part family museum. Nearly every room holds something that once belonged to someone I loved. When my grandmother passed away, her furniture came to me. When my mother passed away, her furniture, paintings, and collectibles came as well. Over time, pieces from my aunt found their way […]

Every year on March 17, something interesting happens across the world. People who may or may not have a drop of Irish heritage suddenly reach for something green. A scarf. A hat. A shirt. Maybe even socks with tiny shamrocks. It is a cheerful little tradition known as “wearing the green,” and for a moment, the

There was a time, not so very long ago, when being busy seemed to be the goal. Calendars filled quickly with appointments, errands, lunches, meetings, and social obligations. Leaving the house was simply what we did. It was the rhythm of life. A day spent entirely at home almost felt like something had gone wrong. Then

Coffee Thoughts: Wave Diplomacy Every morning when I head out for my walk, I practice a small form of diplomacy. Not the kind conducted in government buildings or across long conference tables. Mine happens on sidewalks, along quiet neighborhood streets, and sometimes across freshly cut lawns. I call it wave diplomacy. As I walk through the neighborhood, I

This is very personal.   I am writing this as much for myself as I am for anyone reading it. The love and support after sharing the news of Teddy’s passing have been overwhelming in the most beautiful way. Many of you have said, “I understand.” Many of you have walked this path before. Now we are learning how

There was a time when being competent meant you could cook a meal, balance a checkbook, and fold laundry without crying. Today, competence means remembering your password. All of them. Preferably without triggering a security alert that politely informs you that you have “exceeded the number of attempts,” as though three guesses indicate a fundamental character