For Christmas this year my brother, Andy, gave me a box of pears from that famous fruit duo, Harry and David. (At the least, I was hoping for a mixed box of fruit). Not being partial to pears, I thought, "These will be wasted on me." I never cared for the grainy texture I associate with pears and they always were too hard for my palate. Well, being the good consumer that I am, I thoroughly read through the enclosed information card which stated that these pears are "So big and juicy,...

Matt and Meghan got married - causing a quick trip to Florida the beginning of the month. Stayed at the "downtown" Sheraton, which was quite north of downtown by New York standards. Rented a car, 'cause that is what one does in Orlando. From the window of my room I had a lovely view of the hotel pool, and this tropical water garden courtesy of the abandoned building next door. I assume abandon, because only someone as creative as Mother Nature could construct such combinations. ...