Let’s Talk About Class

We’ve had a few comments lately about the word ‘class’. As the author of The Old Money Book, which has ‘Secrets of the Upper Class’ in its title, I feel it’s important to clarify the term, the context in which it’s used, and how I use it. ‘Class’ has been defined as: A set, collection, … More Let’s Talk About Class

Understanding Your Expat Friends

After living abroad for a period of time (six months in Italy and seven years in France), I feel qualified to offer a very gentle primer on how to better understand any friends you may have who are now living full time outside the United States. Why could this be helpful? Because people change when … More Understanding Your Expat Friends

The Importance of Institutions

As Americans, we tend to take a very individualistic view of the ourselves, our country, and our world.  We idealize the vision, determination, and hard work of the individual as dominant forces in shaping his or her world. Fate, luck or the help of others is often downplayed. The self-made man is just that: a … More The Importance of Institutions

Stacey Dooley Meets The British Upper Class

Since living in Europe for the past few years, I have become familiar with the work of Stacey Dooley, a British television presenter–as they’re called on this side of the pond. In one of her series, a camera crew follows her as she spends the weekend with a unique or unusual family. Reality television being … More Stacey Dooley Meets The British Upper Class

A Secret vs. A Practice

As the author of The Old Money Book, it wouldn’t surprise anyone to learn that I have an interest in self-improvement.  I’ve read a few self-help books, even as my book choices have always been random in terms of genres and subject matter. I’ve tried to become a little bit of an armchair expert in … More A Secret vs. A Practice