Feature Articles
Links to writing samples that cover a broad range of style and tone.
“One of the best qualities an editor can have is insight. Insight into what moves the writer into the creative process, and if it will resonate with readers. A good reader can see the heart and synthesis of a piece (rough or polished) right away. That is Robin Dutton-Cookston as I know her.”
“Blessed All Her Life,” USF Giving News
At the age of 18 Mary Dorothy Graham ‘78 moved to San Francisco from Hong Kong with a fierce work ethic and a scholarship. She enrolled at USF, and has been working hard to give of herself to others ever since. “I loved all my professors. Every single one of them,” Graham said of her time on the Hilltop. “Everyone was so good to me at USF. I was so blessed.” Graham launched her career from USF and worked as an educator in Oakland public schools for over thirty years, always with an eye on connection, relationships, and giving back.
“The Magic Cloth,” Mothering Magazine
WHEN I BECAME A PARENT, my traditional accoutrements of femininity went by the wayside. Necklaces became pull toys for busy, exploring hands. Scarves served as nooses for stranglingmama. Gabardine blazers, cashmere ponchos, silk wraps—all were covered in puke, breastmilk, urine, or some combination of the above. I stuffed these accessories into the back of my closet, along with any expectations of sartorial beauty. Most of the time, when I hovered about my daughter, Grace, I considered my day a success if I remembered to wear deodorant. And the only pre-pregnancy clothes that fit me were the ones with grandma-style elastic waistbands. Then, a girlfriend who had started her own business making baby slings gave me one of her top-notch beauties as a gift. This time-tested baby carrier rapidly became my most prized fashion embellishment.
“I Am a Public School Parent and I Won’t Back Down,” Beyond Chron
Last night I went to a media screening of the new film Won’t Back Down, starring Maggie Gyllenhaal and Viola Davis with Holly Hunter. I’ll get right to the point, y’all. (I love you anyway, Maggie!) Here are some things that are good about this film:
The protagonists are charming and believable. (With the exception of the obligatory love-interest male teacher who was allegedly from Texas yet had a NY accent. Not believable.) The story centers around two mothers who are both in challenging situations and who are willing to risk it all to help their children have a better life. I get that. I understood the characters’ motivations and I rooted for them to succeed.
“11 Simple Exercises for Living Right Now,” Rebelle Society
At the risk of sounding like Van Halen during the ill-advised Sammy Hagar days, I would like to talk about this moment. About ‘The Right Now’.
Let’s get down to business about what needs to happen right now. Let’s get all groovy and Zen and stop what we’re doing to focus on this very minute, right now.
And I’m certainly no expert, but I do know what helps me to live in this moment, what helps me to be in ‘The Right Now’ and not fret about tomorrow or stew on yesterday.
“Ten Things to Love About Ambiance,” Noe Valley Times
The striking black and white striped awning of the Ambiance clothing boutique is a signature landmark of 24th Street. A small, locally-owned shop, Ambiance is a long-time Noe Valley favorite, and a destination shopping spot for those in and out of the neighborhood. Ambiance has four locations throughout San Francisco. We are a bit biased toward the Noe Valley location, but we think they are all terrific. Here are a few reasons why we love this shop: