The day prior to the night before the night before Christmas

The stockings are figuratively hung by the chimney. The gift shopping is nearly done; we are out of time and out of money. I think a couple of items for the family gathering is all that is left. Cookies and candy are baked and prepared. The wife will make up some containers to gift the neighbors. I will brave yet one more trip to the grocery to get stuff to make for the various family get-togethers.

Friday and Monday are work holidays. In reality this week and next will be slow. No one wants to see or hear from a salesman at this time of year. To be honest, they don't want to anytime, but particularly right now. The first week of January will be tough to schedule appointments too. Even my winning personality, charm, and wit cannot overcome the holidays.

It appears a white Christmas is not in the cards this year. Winter storms are forecast for the Midwest, but it looks like we will be on the warm side and will see rain instead of snow.

Today's recommended Holiday movie is Donovan's Reef. This 1963 John Wayne comedy/action flick may not strike you as a Christmas movie, but the holiday plays a central theme in the tale. I may just throw the DVD into the player this evening. Heck, you can never go wrong watching The Duke.

I hope you have a great Thursday