Catherine Gigante-Brown

"Bring over a meal—and leave. Breakfast, lunch or dinner, from soup to nuts. And coffee. Plenty of coffee."

After I got over the initial devastation, I pulled myself up by my big-girl panties and got on with it. Chemo was no picnic—but it was do-able.

I left Cuba in 1949, when I was 11 years old. Back then, I didn't understand why my mother sent me away. I still don't.

Why do we venerate individuality in adults but condemn it in children?

I’m a firm believer that Tiny Kindnesses can change the world, one sweet, loving gesture at a time.

I know it’s not a politically correct one, but I’ve got a confession to make: earth-friendly hotels stink. There, I said it.

erotic. intimate. unapologetic.

I try. I really do. But whenever I attempt to embrace my husband Peter’s Cuban culture, I always screw up.

8. Educate, don’t fixate.

Even though there’s no shortage of condoms in the Netherlands, it’s easier if you have your own birth control. Even if your trip isn’t a booty call, you never know! And if desire hits, you’ll be ready with your favorite type of BC and brand.