Well, here it is, Christmas time again.  Fortunately, I'm going into this one with no damage to my wallet or charge accounts; it's amazing how being the only one in control of your funds can make such a big difference!  I've always been one to shop early (all year), but this year I'm really on top of things and does it feel good.
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Unfortunately, I still must get out in the traffic, both personally & for my job.  Now is it my imagination, or have people really gotten worse at driving & more rude to boot??  I'd rather NOT have to deal with some of the traffic, but I swear.........people, open your d$#@ eyes & drive the car!
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Yesterday, I had to make what is normally a 10 minute max trip to the Wolfchase Galleria area in Memphis.  It took me 45 minutes to get from the Hwy 70 @ Hwy 64 intersection to the entrance to Home Depot!!  Explain to me how, with six lanes (plus turn lane) coming from all four directions, the traffic can get to this much of a standstill.  There wasn't an accident within 5 miles in any direction to blame it on, either.  Needless to say, I went on to the business at hand & got the heck out of Dodge without even a passing thought of trying to fight my way to TRU, Target, or Walmart!
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Anyway, back to where I was heading with this installment.  This year, not only am I more prepared for Santa's arrival, but I'm actually INTO it this year, too.  I really gave it the effort last year, but I just couldn't make it feel right.  But this year, The Boy Is Back!  I helped decorate my girlfriend's house & hung lights on the outside (not quite as many as I normally would....had to break her in easy), the first lights for her in probably 8-10 years.  It really feels good, ya' know?  :-)    Anyway, with all this activity, I happened to think its almost time for my annual trip to Boystown with cars for the kids.  Granted, I don't take quite as many as I did when I was married (due to the inability to get the tax write off I used to get), but I DO still take them there & THAT's what really matters.  I may not get to see their faces on Christmas day, but I know that the cars will be put to good use.  I still plan to take at least 30-50 cars each year & challenge all of you to do at least the same in your hometown.  Whether its a Boystown, a children's hospital, a family down on their luck, or just the neighborhood kids, do what you can to spread the joy & the love of the season.  Make some children happy who may otherwise be missing out.  And keep in mind what I've said before:  You just never know when your world or life may change, so enjoy it while you can.
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And keep alive those warm memories of loved ones who are no longer here to enjoy it with you.
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Wishing you & your families all the best, peace on earth; goodwill to men,
                                Stoneman