We have returned from Hawaii, where we had a lovely time playing in the warm Pacific and exploring Kauai and generally lazing around. We ate some pineapple but did not wear leis. Not everyone who goes to Hawaii wears leis. We did, however, wear some Crocs. In fact, it is a triumph that I got Stevel to wear shoes that do not involve socks, because he has sort of an aversion (I once bought him some flip-flops, but he just couldn’t do it … perhaps it is because of his tender feet). In the end, his aversion to being all sandy and soggy and shoed-socked proved to be stronger. I had purchased a pair of Crocs myself early on in the trip, as I knew they would be the perfect beach shoe. The next day we returned to the shoe store known as “Sole Mates,” where I got to announce to the saleslady in explanation of our second appearance in two days, “We need more Crocs.” Then commenced the teasing, since not only are we a couple wearing the same [trendy] shoes, but so many others are also wearing these shoes. Thus, I feel it my duty to point out to Stevel when we pass by others who also qualify as our “sole mates.” Amazingly, this behavior has not deterred my anti-trend husband from continuing to sport his Crocs now that we are back in Santa Monica. I think soon he will have to admit that, in hot weather, shoes without socks are more comfortable.