I was playing in the Public Garden with some new friends when an adorable little redheaded two-year-old girl toddled up and dropped a dollar in the basket. The mandolin player told her "thank you", to which she replied "THANK YOU!" and started bowing. Of course we all laughed; of course this made her bow more. She's ready for her closeup, Mr. deMille.

Dear Any-of-a-Number-of-Couples,

Yes, I'm playing something slow and sappy. Yes, I know you're deeply in love. No, this is not your cue to start making out ten feet in front of me. Stop that. And watch where you're slow dancing, there's a train coming.

Squeamishly,

The Fiddler

Unforeseen Occupational Hazard:

Today, a pug drooled on my foot.