The home stretch

Here it is 10 days to go. Today we did our dash around the local shopping areas. The Countess got some gifts for some of her friends at work. That is nice that she is so thoughtful. I think that since I am out I should do the same. But I don't. There is not anyone at work that I feel that this display of thoughtfulness is warranted. I know this sounds crass or rather Schroogish but that is just the way it is. I am not going to feel any different if I get senseless gifts that I really don't care to give. Of course the advertising and propaganda of the season wants me to feel guilty. Sorry, I'm not going to. It simply doesn't matter and the week after Christmas all will be back to business as usual and I will still have the respect of my co-workers and I won't have to worry about how long it will take to pay off the debt. Christmas is so commercial that it has become a big rip off. Now that it starts before Thanksgiving, just after Halloween, the season is just too long and looses its luster or intensity. I just can't stay in the spirit for that long.

Went for a nice ride this afternoon. I thought about all those in the Midwest and North that are in the middle of a big storm and am thankful for being able to jump on the bike and ride any time I want during the year. It was a beautiful day to ride; 65 deg. and calm with plenty of sunshine. Just great.