I admit that I fall victim to the insidious display of end-of-the-aisle deals. Miles refuses to bend to their will. He throws his index finger to the air and declares in his best televangelist's voice, "I will not succumb to this marketing ploy!" as I, transfixed by the large discount sign, throw the gadget into the cart.

My latest acquisition, a spoontula, is my brown-nosing kitchen utensil. It does...everything. It's almost as if someone threw a spoon and a spatula into one device...almost. Miles wipes his hands down his face in weariness, in disbelief. His wife tromps upon his ideals.

It's like shiny objects and pie...I'm powerless but to heed the sirens' call!