Mist-ical day. Thermometer up, glass down. Okay for bike riding. At the grocery store bought golden raisins, candied fruit, and almond extract—by way of preparation for...even though it doesn't really feel like Christmas.

I am now predicting that this winter will not be as severe as last, and that the Great Lakes will barely freeze, unlike last year when they froze almost completely. Still, the water level of Michigan/Huron continues to rise, so I'm in favor of a milder winter—easier on the dog's feet, and the furnace. Speaking of fuel, gas in Whitewater is now at $2.47, and apparently still heading down, (probably free in Texas at this point), which is good and bad.