JULIE ANDREWS FAMOUSLY SANG, AND I QUOTE

“These are a few of my favorite things.”

My favs may not be as notable as Julie’s were in the Sound of Music, but they’re just as valuable. At least to me.

Mine are pictured above. They include a small wooden statuette, a little chunk of granite and a recent New Yorker magazine cover.

They live at my desk and each one is gently touched and acknowledged every single day. 

The little statuette is an African warrior.  Her name is “Sam” with no reference whatsoever to Little Black Sambo!  She was given to me many years ago by my college roommate. 

The little granite stone, which doubles as a candle holder, sits right next to Sam on the shelf.  It was a gift from my sister-in-law who lives in Maine. It’s also been with me for many years.

The New Yorker magazine cover is the newest member of the clan.  It arrived on September 15, 2025.  Since then, I haven’t been able to take my eyes off the young violinist, his audience of pigeons and the passion on his face as he creates beautiful music.

It may be silly, but it feels comfortable and comforting at this crazy time in our world to admire, if not dote on, some of those little things we’re lucky enough to have. And love. To be able to touch them at a moment’s notice. And to hang onto to them. Fiercely.  If for no other reason than simply because we can.