I like to be open-minded, and as those long hot steamy summer days get closer, I decided to check out the ice cream aisle in my grocery store to explore the latest flavors. You never know, I may cross to the “other side” and go nutty with maple walnut or butter pecan.

As I glided along the sparkling freezer doors, I spied a man several feet away, and he looked up at me. He then walked toward me holding two cartons of ice cream. One hand held a very attractive container and read “Madagascar Vanilla Bean” and the other “Vanilla” which appeared to be the generic store brand. Ah, I thought, a vanilla comrade – hurray!

I noted to him that he chose my personal favorite, but he broke down and admitted he was in over his head. He said he was shopping for his wife and had been hopelessly studying the assortment of vanilla ice creams. He lamented they all appear the same – except for price and the carton. Would I know the difference?

Of course, I do – it’s marketing, I replied. My new comrade walked away shaking his head in defeat. He probably bought both for his wife. I think he was a chocolate guy, anyway.