Comments on comments.

Re: visiting the DR. I guess a long time ago, I mentioned that I'd like to visit the Caribbean. Surely you can all appreciate a warm beach, especially during the winter. And I love those gorgeous pictures of bright, clear, calm water. Anyway, the DR is theoretically one of the less expensive places to go. I didn't actually compare prices with any other islands, but that was what Chris suggested. As far as other places I'd like to visit, most of them are more expensive (i.e. Hawaii, New Zealand/Australia, Ireland, Florida Keys). I found a nice little hotel (owned by Germans!) in a fishing village, with enough restaurants and excursions to keep us amused - though I'd be happy just lounging on the beach with a book the whole time. Marcus, of course, will need a little more stimulation. ;)

The camera I bought for Marcus cost a total of $25 - so not a big investment if it gets trashed (which was the whole point, LOL). It is still functioning after the drop on the patio. However, it eats up batteries, especially as long as he leaves it on! Also, his earliest pics were the best. Later, he just snapped closeup shots of his DVD player and my computer screen. Not great pictures. LOL But I do like his perspectives and enthusiasm overall.

Re: Beggars Night. Oddly, we had more people this year too. It was pretty cool actually. I was surprised at how few kids came last year, since I remember huge masses of kids trick-or-treating when I was that age. I handed out some leftover candy that I had lying around - not really great stuff - so perhaps I'll invest in some better goodies next year. ;)

Tomorrow is my pulmonology appt. I'll report back.