My old pals, Harry & David

Like reindeer, Harry & David are with us all year 'round -- yet I must confess I don't think much of the dear boys until the holidays draw near.

And so, I must also make public a renewed appreciation for the purveyor of yummy treats, having just broken into a box of chocolates I had planned (as God is my witness) to serve on Christmas Eve.

I now further confess that I'm NOT sorry I raided the candy. The fudgy chocolates, ensconced in minty green, red and white shells, were gosh-awful good, an unexpected and totally appreciated treat.

So why, pray tell, have I been giving away delicious nibbles from Harry & David when I could be enjoying them myself?

Perhaps I'm a saint unaware, a humble journalist waiting for a halo and an elevator to the sky. Or maybe I haven't figured out that I can send goodies from Harry & David to my favorite people -- and also buy treats for moi.

If you hanker to go and do likewise, head to the nearest H&D store or go to www.harryanddavid.com

God bless us, everyone.