Carol's Philosophy (as seen by Paul)

Carol has discovered that there are activities more interesting than touring.   She has a technique worth noting.
It goes like this.  "Let's go look at jewelry.  Not to buy.  Just to look." 
"Oh, isn't that beautiful.  I've always wanted one like that.  Which one do you like?  And such a good price too."
"I'll just try it on, not to buy, just to see it.  Does it look good on me?   This is the one you like, isn't it?"

Twenty five stores later.  "Alright, already, buy the thing.   My feet hurt and I'm hungry.  Put it on the credit card and you can visit me in debtor's prison."

Corfu...a Greek Island

This trip was a disaster.  I was sea sick, as was Carol and 90% of the passengers on the Hydrofoil on the way over.  I got food poisoning.   It rained for two of our three days.  I had to walk two miles into town because there were no cabs.  Then for a short time the sun came out blinding us shinning off the gold in the jewelry stores.  Then the dreaded,   "Paul, look at this!"  I know I'm in trouble. 

"I just want to go in and get a closer look." 

Note the saleslady with the calculator.  She is figuring out how soon she can go on an all expenses paid cruise to America if Carol buys this necklace.

This necklace is designed around Greek symbol of good luck.  Carol thought that buying it would bring us seven years of good luck.  I thought maybe just two years of poverty.

Florence.

The city center plays host to at least 70 leather stores and outside stalls.  The air is filled with the smell of new leather. 

After two days of tromping from stall to stall "just to get an idea of what things cost."  I finally said, "Would you buy one so I can go eat?"  Bad move.  You can see the result.

A river runs along the edge of the tourist zone of the city.  Across this river lies an old, old bridge.  This bridge is, as was the custom in ancient times, lined with shops.  These shops are lined with gold.

"Whoa, there Paul.  Let me look in this window a minute.   Aren't these earrings just gorgeous?  Why don't you sit on the curb over there while I look."

"Just chill out.  I'm going in.  And be careful that you don't get dirt on you pants sitting on that curb.  I'll only be a minute."

"Solid gold right?  They're such a good deal and we may never come here again.  I'll just take those there.  Gosh, Paul, aren't we lucky that I drug you ten blocks out of our way to see this historic bridge?"

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