I know. We stand alone in a crowd because we have only one TV in the house. Well, most weeks of the year it really wouldn't matter that our one TV went out except for Le Tour de France. The grand sport of cycling intrigues me: the precision of aerodynamic positioning, masterful athleticism, and most especially the spectacular scenes of the French countryside, the Alps, and the Pyrenees. For one, who in her bravado voice says, "I don't watch TV" I do miss not having a TV, especially when I know the cyclists are in Paris circling the Champs-�lys�es toward the Arc de Triomphe as I write.

       TV is a machine of ad hoc need in our house, I guess you could say. It's rarely on except for an occasional Evening News program when there is an event of importance or to watch a DVD movie of our choice for relaxation. Or, of course, a Spurs game. That's it. David Frost said it right: "Television is an invention that permits you to be entertained in your living room by people you wouldn't have in your home." Quite frankly, no thank you. As has been said many times, "You become whom you surround yourself with."

       Not having a TV in the house these weeks caused a tug, I admit. On the one hand I missed Le Tour de France, on the other hand, it was a treasured time of spousal interaction: hugs, reading books together, and stimulating conversations. We found ourselves surrounding each other with awareness, attention, and affection. Now I remembered why we did not have a TV (on purpose) when our children were young - we just enjoyed "being with" - being present to the moment and to each other. Priceless.

       Can anyone please tell me who won Le Tour de France? Please email me? Thanks.

                                                --by Jan