All That I Need, or Live Like a Dog with Its Head Stuck Out the Car Window

by Teresa Fritschi

All That I Need takes the reader on a wondrous journey of sensual discoveries first made in childhood and imparts the wisdom of ancient philosophers in maintaining (or re-learning) the ability to be satiated with small pleasures as we age and face our own mortality. Mary Poppins carpetbag has been updated by Ms Fritschi and Tinkerbelle’s fairy dust now includes the magic found at Fenway Park, restoring a vintage Saab convertible, and learning to swim as an adult to remind us how much beauty and delight can be found if only we reach out to pluck these low hanging, accessible-to-everyone fruits. All That I Need's foreword was generously offered by Jennifer Sertl the author of Strategy, Leadership and the Soul, who summed up her reading of the manuscript “Ms Fritschi writes with the nuanced complexity and magic of a Disney movie. Each reader will take something different and meaningful from All That I Need depending upon their own experience and point of reference.”The softcover book features cover art by Scottish artist Iain Clark. Mr Clarks’ other work can be found in the permanent fine art collection of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and private homes of such celebrities as comedian Billy Connolly. Susan Colodny, the books’ graphic artist, brought the delight of zoopraxiscope to bear on the interior layout of the book. When the book is held and ‘thumbed through’ the black and white graphic art of Mr Clarks’ image of the Border Terrier appears to be running. Extra-wide margins provide room for the reader to make notations and express thoughts providing the perfect gift for someone embarking on a new direction for their lives. A companion journal is precisely the same physical size is also available exclusively on Amazon.“Terri’s ‘wow, let’s go’ attitude jumps off every page; her book is the literary equivalent of who can make the biggest cannonball in the pool! She has vividly captured her own journey from a recreational swimmer to one in racing form and for speed. All That I Need will be especially inspiring for every adult swimmer longing to tap their inner Dana Torres or Michael Phelps.” Tim Auerhahn Aquatics Director for Midtown Athletic Club“Ms Fritschi is a master painter of life’s everyday occurrences, both extraordinary and relevant. In the spirit of ancient storytelling, and with the freshest of contemporary expression, she tweaks our inner senses of nostalgia and reminds us of the incredible gift of being sentient humans.” Christopher P. Lopez, AIA, AICP PLAN Architectural Studio Philippe Petot, head of business development/custom fabrics for Glen Raven, mirrored Ms Sertl’s words, “Ms Fritschi’s wonderful writing transcends gender and country of birth. I was feeling a bit grim but in just one chapter I cheered right up. I am now ready to take on the world... one more time.”After reading All That I Need the author hopes you will be too!

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir

249 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2011

Reviews

[Cheryl · Rating 2 out of 5]

An interesting memoir of a woman who is definitely not ordinary. Was a little disjointed at times

[Leigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quirky & enjoyable little book with a somewhat zen-like philosophical aproach to living.

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably going to be in my top ten books I've read; Teresa has such an amazing way of writing; it's funny, thought provoking and inspiring all at once. I've actually been inspired to take up swimming again with my war with my waist. I've also reaffirmed how important it is to enjoy every person, every moment in my life. Time together can sometimes be cut too short and I don't want to have the "if I only..". I would highly recommend everyone reading this, and I hope too you have found to that you cry at part that make you smile. Enjoy and thank you again Terri for writing an awesome book.

[Chrissy · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't understand the purpose of this book. Is it self-help or a memoir? The author can't decide, which makes for very confused reading. Two chapters alone are spent on her swimming classes. Very boring.

[D.L. Teamor · Rating 2 out of 5]

I gave two stars for the effort, however, this book is just too confused and disjointed to get anything out of it. The irony is that it is meant to teach simplicity and harmony. At this point, I need to retreat with a cup of tea and relax with a few Joshua Becker entries...

[Jeni McLaughlin · Rating 1 out of 5]

Although the overall message was nice, I could not get past the bad grammar & lack of (or misuse of) punctuation. The author also skipped around a lot, making it difficult to follow her thought pattern. If this book had been much longer, I'm pretty sure I would have put it aside unfinished.

[Karen Densmore]

Love it! Will share with my family!

What I enjoyed the most about this book were the pure words from the author's heart. The genuine desire for all of us to live each second as a precious gift.

[Old_airman · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this a few pages at a time as my morning inspirational. The first half of the book was very good. Maybe because it was a bit to upbeat for me, the last chapters become harder.

[Kelhayes · Rating 1 out of 5]

I tried to finish it but three chapters in....I'm over it.