There are two types of people: those who feel fresh flowers are worth the expense, and those who don’t.

Like many things, I spent years thinking they were overrated, which just happened to coincide with years that I never had any around. As soon as I started receiving them I realized how much they brighten a room.

It is very important to change the water and trim the stems daily to keep them looking nice. Just as crucial is tossing them out composting them as soon as they’re getting to be over the hill. If they’re flowers you intend to dry and preserve, that’s one thing. But saggy, droopy, floppy flowers just look sad. Fresh flowers are supposed to symbolize life and romance, not death and neglect.

Every time I glance at these flowers (still fresh!) I smile. Maybe it’s not a convincing argument for everyone, but things that make me smile without fail are worthwhile in my book.

There are two kinds of people: those who consider a cheese-only cheese plate sufficient, and those who are looking for a little more.

I love cheese, don’t get me wrong. But when I’m drinking wine and chatting with friends, I’m a lot happier when there are a couple of other choices on the cheese plate.

Primo Naturale Salami is a great addition because it complements cheese, is substantive for those who are getting impatient for a real meal, and… who doesn’t like salami? (Don’t answer that.) Add a bunch of grapes, some crackers, and a few olives, and voila- you’re host[ess] with the most[ess].

Another reason I love this brand of salami is because of its coatings: black pepper (quite spicy, which I love) and, my favorite, herbs with wine. [The prices on the website are for cases of 16, so don't be alarmed. There's also a wishlist function!] Plus, it’s nitrite-free, nitrate-free and antibiotic-free, even if it’s not, you know, free.