I'm of the opinion that eiswein improves with age, but I'm aware not everyone agrees. I look forward to tasting it at our earliest opportunity.

And I wish I could say when that might be. Trust me that I'm working diligently to earn that furlough.

Well, if you had a doily or a decorative sofa cushion, it might lend charm. I confess this place has none of its own. Perhaps a sparkly light-catcher for my window or a tassled lampshade. What is your magazine recommending this season to brighten a dreary interior? Surely you've had a feature recently.

Perhaps I should take out a subscription.