Upper Class Secret: Delayed Gratification

A neighbor and I had an across-the-hedge chat the other day. He’s a little more prominent than I am (which isn’t saying much…but still). He was lamenting the fact that people approach him regularly and want to know what the “Secrets of the Upper Class” are. Most often, he says, they want to know the … More Upper Class Secret: Delayed Gratification

Old Money: The Rewards Program

On this blog, I focus frequently on the discipline and effort required to lead an Old Money life. I rarely discuss the rewards, and I’m even less inclined to share my personal life. However, I think it may help to share, on rare occasions, the rewards that sometimes result from adhering to the Core Values … More Old Money: The Rewards Program

Working With Passion

On a recent trip to Europe, Mommy Dearest joined us for closing night at the opera and a little retail therapy, celebrating her 80th birthday. News of her arrival reached our friend, Andrea Mazzocato, who manages The Merchant of Venice perfume store in Verona, Italy. Exhibiting quintessential Italian hospitality, he welcomed The Birthday Girl with … More Working With Passion

The Old Money Luxury List (You’ll Be Surprised)

Forget the full-length fur coat and fuel-hungry Ferrari. Old Money has a very different idea of what constitutes luxury, and, not surprisingly, it has very little to do with material possessions. So, without further delay, let’s learn about Old Money’s idea of what luxury really is… The first big luxury enjoyed by Old Money is … More The Old Money Luxury List (You’ll Be Surprised)

A Brief History of God, Feet, and Shoes

T-shirts, cargo pants and flip-flops seem to dominate the wardrobe of many young (and not so young) people these days. Rather than be judgmental, I try to adopt a philosophical attitude toward the big C, which for me is not Cancer, but Casual. I’m not sure what I can do about the T-shirts and cargo … More A Brief History of God, Feet, and Shoes

Americans Abroad: A Few Things To Remember

It’s been a ghastly summer for Americans visiting foreign countries this year. The fiasco in Rio involving the after-hours behavior of American Olympic athletes and the recent news of Americans frolicking in the public fountains of Rome are cringe-worthy and embarrassing, especially for those of us who regularly travel internationally for business and pleasure.  (Two … More Americans Abroad: A Few Things To Remember