Last night, the wife and I along with some good friends performed our annual holiday ritual: attending the Christmas concert as performed by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. After five years, this is still a treat, and they seem to get better every year. It was a different, larger venue this time around, which allowed for more lights and stage effects. There was definitely more energy and even a bit more fun to the entire show than in previous years -- something I didn't think was possible.

I'm sorry, but I'm one of the most cynical cats on this planet, and even I can't help but smile like a kid and dance and clap to the music when these folks play. If you've never heard their music, you owe it to yourself to check them out. If you've heard them and don't get what I'm talkin' about...well, check yourself for a pulse.

So, with that: Bring on Christmas!

Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season to anyone and everyone who takes the time to visit the site, read our stuff, hang out on different message boards where we loiter, or visit us at conventions, book signings, etc. Hope to see and/or hear from you again in 2006!