I guess I am not in this category of stopping by my local farm stand for some produce and then forking up almost 10.00 for 4 of them. Seems a tad bit pricey to me and it must be a very expensive stand for that matter to shop at. When I do risk a venture back down to Commiefornis, I always hit Pedrick's Produce for some local grown fresh grown and picked vegetables and fruits. Not to mention picking up some of their fine hot sauces and great honey. Got the hook to them when living there as I miss not having something similar here in Northern NV.
Now about this on going discussion here about the Dumbing Down of America and its youth...It is most assuredly happening no matter how and what spin one puts on it being so or not so. In fact it really began a long time ago and has effected generations after generations. Even us ol' Farts went through similar teachings. But, for those of us that saw past this and tried to improve on those deficiencies, we are they better for it unlike those that are so stuck into the meager of mind sets and refuse to even consider their way, just simply isn't all that proper or correct.
Case in point...And yes I am also referring to our resident Curmudgeon and muckraker, and, right you know who but he lives on an Island...he, a long time ago on this forum, PM'd me about how my words and writings confounded him and confused him. He alluded that he wasn't quite as well read nor learned than I, but still wanted to be better at expressing himself. I suggested what was taught to me at a young age about picking out a word that he was unfamiliar with, and repeating it 3-4 times and then using it in his writings. He really took that to heart and I thought to myself, maybe I have given someone else an example of how they can improve their English and writing skills. Sadly, to this very day, I haven't seen any of that as he continually stays stuck in his Sand Box.
Grammer and proper English always go hand in hand and yet this repeated dumbing down we slide into, is becoming worse and worse. Call me a Grammar Nazi if you so want!!! I don't care at all because I am comfortable in my own skin and in my speaking and writings. If it rubs ones fur the wrong way, I don't give a Rat's Patooty what others may say. And I am always eager to challenge any and all on that subject. It becomes a direct reflection of who and what we are.
Finally back to the original intent here of the post of discussion...I see the exact same thing not only from the youth of today not being savvy enough to count change as they rely on the "COMPUTER REGISTER" to tell them what is the correct amount. It goes back to the Readin', Writtin', and Arithmetic basics that sadly is no longer in vogue nor utilized in the basic education of all. And that even includes some "ADULTS" and grown ups as well. 4.00 bucks a pop for some Maters is way too much for my taste and I hope they were enjoyable as you said they were. Next time though maybe just hit the local grocery for some less expensive fruit as that is what Tomatoes actually are...cr8crshr/Bill