At my age, I don’t want things for Christmas. I’ve felt this way since the beginning of my adult life. If I want something, I’ll save and get it.

Still, gifts are nice, and my wife’s a goddess. Between her and the family, I managed to fit an entire Guitar Center in my studio space (minus the grumpy sales person). I finally have that classic orange BOSS distortion pedal, and I put it through the ringer today. My wife twisted knobs while I played; recognizing many of the “sounds” from classic albums. It has a nice late 70’s vibe. Crunchy, is the word I used to describe it.

Next up is New Year’s,  and I’m a huge stickler for resolutions. In the past five years, I’ve stopped using nicotine, stopped drinking alcohol, stopped drinking sodas, and learned to play guitar; all via New Year’s resolutions.

This year, I think I should really concentrate on my reading. My TBR pile is out of control, and I still haven’t learned how to “remote view”. I’m so ready to meet aliens; it’s not even funny!

I think I just need to know that there’s something bigger than billionaire politicians floating around out there.

That said, this will be the first book of 2026.

The woman who gave it to me is kind of a big deal in academia. Here’s to hoping!

https://a.co/d/0JGD5vk