Have to agree with everyone on the laptop issue. Check the cords & other accessories if you like, but definitely do NOT check the laptop itself. Too much of a risk of it being stolen or damaged (lesser of the two evils) and neither the TSA or airlines will take responsibility for it....the "you should have known better" attitude is what I've heard from others.

RE fruits & stuff....a few years ago I was in Europe for 2 weeks and had a couple of oranges and a kiwi in my briefcase early in the trip, long gone before I got back to the US. No matter....the beagle (cute little bugger he was) totally picked up the scent and they searched my bag. So even if it's gone before you get to the US, don't be surprised if the brigade is present if they have a "hit" and want to take a look.