Mary Novaria

We love the Southwest. SANTA FE, N.M. -- John and I are on an extended, working road trip throughout the West. We love the scrubby, desert landscape, the mountains, and the big skies. We’re doing the Airbnb, VRBO thing, because we want to get the feel of what it’s like to actually live in a place, as opposed to staying in a hotel. Sometimes, though, the accommodations can cause one to rethink this strategy. The thing is, this place looks above average in the marketing materials and has wonderful reviews. We're not overly critical or picky, either. I guess finding a vacation rental is kind of like using an online dating service. There could be two terrific people, but in the end, they just don't have anything in common.  If you have a zealous obsession for all things Southwest, the Santa Fe condo we’ve rented just might be the place for you. Swaddle yourself in Native American blankets you’ve ripped off the walls, and imagine you’re transported to a gallery overflo...

John R. Perry Photo Like microwave ovens and ATMs, drive-thrus and meal delivery services were created to make our lives easier, more convenient and stress free. When I was a kid, the only food you could order for delivery was pizza, and you had to pay in cash. Except for one time my parents were out. I gathered every quarter, dime and nickel in the house, paying in change for the chance to see the cute delivery guy I was crushing on. Fawaz_Sharif Photo Today, though, you can get any food delivered. Steaks, sushi, shawarma – the possibilities are endless. The last couple of years, my husband, John, has even had a red velvet cheesecake delivered to our door on Christmas Eve, and we do still order the occasional pizza. Use PayPal, Apple Pay, or a credit card. For most of it, you couldn’t pay in cash (or coins) even if you wanted to. Meal delivery services are not without their problems – forgotten salad dressing, col...