We enjoyed our Halloween.  My boys had a terrific time and love all of their candy.  The weather was incredible.  Halloween day was around 70 degrees (Fahrenheit) and the evening weather was mild as well, in the 60's -- no jackets necessary.  Ben decided to be Superman and Sam decided to be Batman.  I went as a Star Trek engineering officer (my Star Trek NextGen jersey was gold in color -- I believe that's engineering).  (For the record, I prefer the classic Trek that originally aired during the 1960's.)

As it turns out, I didn't need to order the PVC glue from Housemart, though I would have as their prices were incredibly reasonable (including  shipping they beat Home Depot -- go Housemart).  When my plumber was over replacing my water heater, I asked him about the type of glue I needed for my sump pump project (-- extending the pipe away from the house with three ten foot lengths of PVC pipe).  To make a long story short, he kindly left his supply of the proper glue in my garage for me.  I discovered this Sunday; and so, the project was completed on Sunday.  Azar (available at 617-325-2929), you get a Brucie.  I'm tempted to give myself a Brucie as I believe that I did a very good job in extending the sump pump.  We will not, however, have any conflict of interest during this research.

My introductory information package from Streamline arrived today via UPS.  The package included a video, a booklet describing the Streamline procedures, laundry bags, name tags, note paper and confirmation of service (with my password written out for all to see).  All of the materials were delivered in a 22" x 16" x 4" box.  This was overkill.  The materials could have fit easily in a much smaller package.  I'm not supportive of the old ways of Corporate America.  Be efficient and pass the savings on to me; that's one of the benefits of the Internet -- reduce the friction.

I really do need new dress shoes.  I came across OnlineShoes.com.  I had a question about their service and sent off an email.  I'll wait for their reply.

My email to OnlineShoes.com
I'm in the market for a pair of mens dress shoes in black.  I believe your website is good and it almost gets me to purchase.  I need a little help with shoe size.  I'm not sure of my size, it's either 11 or 11.5.  For me, fit varies by maker.  I am intrigued by purchasing shoes online -- to understand, visit one of my websites at http://people.bu.edu/celtics.  I know you take returns, which is helpful.  I would not look forward to large return shipping charges.  Any suggestions on how I can maximize the likelihood of me getting the "right" show the "first" time would be appreciated.  Going to a store and getting fit is not an option for me.

Thank you,

Bruce D. Weinberg

I'll post their response and my continuing shoe purchase endeavor.