I am pleased to report that I made it through the weekend without visiting a single car dealer. Of course, that means I am no closer to buying a new car than I was eight days ago.

I did, however, get to experience a performance of Puccini's Manon Lescaut at New York's Metropolitan Opera. Sure, I was watching it in high definition in a movie theater in Miami, but I can assure you that it was a live simulcast. I can't wait to go back for La Boheme in April. (And this time, I'll be sure to take the longer-but-faster route, instead of the slightly shorter-but-longer-in-the-end route.)

Today, the famiy gathered for something of a housewarming for my sister. It was great to have everyone together again for a potluck dinner.