Here is wishing you the best for Christmas and New Year's 2008. I happen to be in a better financial situation than ever before this season, and could afford to get myself and my loved ones most of what I wanted to. I wish I had gotten to go home for Christmas and see Boston, but...next year. We travelled up to the mountains of western North Carolina for a few days away from civilization, and despite it being somewhat uncomfortable, it was a great holiday.

For this holiday season, I would ask people to consider giving to a worthwhile cause, if you are able. These are some causes I have chosen to give money or time to:

• St Jude's Children's Center - a great hospital
• Second Harvest - to help feed those in need
• Salvation Army - to help clothe and aid those in need
• NPR - in a world of crap like Fox News, NPR manages to provide unbiased, thoughtful, excellent coverage.
• Wikipedia - the free encyclopedia is one internet wonder we can all maintain and contribute to.
• NC Greenpower, or your local renewable energy fund equivalent, if your power bill does not already contribute.
• MoveOn.org - the people's equivalent of a PAC, and is one weapon we have in a system overrun by corruption and lobbyists.

Thank you for all the cards, gifts, and continued love. I wish everyone a safe and happy New Year - may your 2009 be peaceful, fruitful, and rewarding.