My wife flew back east to see her family. When she left, I asked whether it was smart for her to wear sandals into a cold front.

"I'll be fine," she said, rolling her eyes and making a pff sound.

Today Yahaira called from Philadelphia, shivering. She said I was right -- sandals were a bad idea and could she could buy some boots. Yahaira knew enough to start with the three magic words: "You were right."

I consented, but only because she was stuttering with hypothermia.

Later Yahaira called to say that she had found new boots and, by sheer destiny, a jacket to match! I was pleased to hear -- I am told -- that my wife would be warm and at the height of fashion.

Guys, you must be vigilant. No matter how she bats her eyes, your woman is two, sometimes three, steps ahead. If she offers you a beer or a backrub, you must ask, "What is really going on here?" And when she leaves for cold weather wearing sandals, insist that she march her butt back in to the house and change.

Then tell me how it goes.