“Living in a homeowners association has its merits,” I always tell my real estate clients, “Yes, they might be a pain – but HOA’s protect the value of your property by not allowing your neighbor’s house to become an eyesore…”

Along came Nurse Cat. Not the usual bossy, condescending stereotype, Cat had a twinkle in her eye, a ready smile and more confidence than a brain surgeon. Basking in her competent aura, I felt immediately comforted, like I was listening to the Alls-right-in-the-world-voice of the tall Allstate spokesman…

…But to my hungry eyes, it wasn’t a random pinprick of possibility, but rather the blaze of the HOLLYWOOD sign, in all its full-bulb glory.

My mom’s ring was too small for my finger. I wanted it close to me. I schlepped from jewelry store to jewelry store, looking for a gold and silver chain, thin enough not to overwhelm the ring’s understated elegance…

On the way home from the station, my mom told them there was a surprise waiting. Viv asked if it was a little monkey. My Mom said “something like that.” Understandably my eleven-year-old sister was disappointed when she saw me.