Backhoes, MIDD, MIND, Valentines Day

Backhoes: A neighbor's backhoe work put our cable out of commission. Bad news when you're hooked on the show 24. We missed it, but alas, no harm other than listening to husbando's grousing.

MIDD: Russell's observation on this short was on target. If you read that I short something, I can almost guarantee that if you go long, you will make money.

MIND: Takes the sting out of MIDD. This is a position that I established in mid-December @ $11.16 and sold at $13.80 in a non-taxable account. I've been watching the stock since then and reestablished a position in my taxable account. It is behaving well with a 14.7% gain so far. I'm watching it closely.

Valentine's Day: Take my advice on this guys---DO NOT give your significant other (SO) a VT Teddy Bear or a Pajama gram that they are panhandling on TV. Here is my suggestion (trust me, she will remember this). Your tastes and your SO's may run differently--revise accordingly. The general theme is YOUR being more thoughtful and solicitous than normal (even if you are normally thoughtful and solicitous).

• write a note (no, not signing a card) telling her how much better a person you are because she is in your life;

• make/purchase dinner and include wine-- For those with a clue, fix your favorite quick, delicious dinner. For those without a clue, here's a suggestion:

• buy a roasted chicken at your market. You will not have to cook this, but you will need to procure and cook the following:

• Purchase some red potatoes and one bunch of parsley. Try to get similarly sized potatoes. Get 2-3 potatoes per person if your kids are joining you--if they are, get them to help. Wash these. Put them in a pot and add enough water to cover at least an inch. Add salt to water and bring to boil. Once boiling, turn down to simmer (just below boil)--medium to medium high heat. Cook them for 20-30 minutes until a fork tender. Don't overcook. You can smash these or just quarter them and serve with butter and chopped parsley (wash the parsley, dry it on a towel and chop the leafy part.). Do not cut your fingers.

• Purchase one head of broccoli. Cut off the stalk about 1 inch from the head. Steam the head for about 7 minutes. ( DO NOT OVERCOOK). Season them with butter salt and pepper or drizzle Italian dressing on them. They are plain, but manageable. [If your market has precut broccoli, go for it! OR...make a salad at your market to bring home.]

• Buy a loaf of crusty bread at your supermarket bakery. Look for one of those artisan breads or just get a french bread loaf. Follow the directions on the package. (In general, preheat your oven to 350 and put the bread in while it is heating--set your timer for 10 minutes and look at it. You might need a few minutes more. ) Don't burn the bread! Set your timer.

• Get a purchased dessert--cupcakes with candle would be nice. Ask for the candles if you do not see them. They will be a special touch.

• Wine? Look for a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. Do not get the cheapest. Kendall Jackson makes a decent SB and that will be in your store. Want a really nice one? Get a Kim Crawford. To chill, put the bottle in the freezer for 20 minutes or the refrigerator for 1 hour before dinner.

• Buy your SO a pretty silk slip at Victoria's Secret. They're comfortable and pretty. Note your SO's bra size and underwear size. Slip your handwritten note in this box.

Remember to tell her that you are taking care of dinner that evening. Otherwise, you will have an awkward moment, and what was meant to surprise and delight will just frustrate.

If NONE of the items above would seem unusual to your SO, then you are quite evolved and I bow to you in honor.