Pamela and Jim were like long lost friends, turning over their home to us: we who were really complete strangers. They were not like hotel staff whose job is to present professional hospitality for 8 or 12 hours per day; 1453 Perry, Denver CO is their home.

For me a home is where I shut the world out, admitting but a few: family, friends, building professionals, and the occasional solicitor whose interest I share. This Colorado couple, who are near age cohorts, evince more trust of one's fellow man than I can. It's a beautiful thing which shames me for my shortcomings.

Even in their absence, Pamela and Jim teach. From the solar panels on the well built 1928 bungalow, through the alphabetized spices in the bulging cupboard, through the abundantly stocked children's playroom through the unlocked liquor cabinet in the dining room there are absorbing lessons on the path to becoming a mensch.

Not all was invariably well; if it's quiet you desire, Denver near the fourth of July is questionable; the public will celebrate with fireworks. All of us enjoyed the boisterous 3rd, 4th and 5th.