Merry Christmas...

...whatever that means to you. Here at Upper Left World Headquarters, it's a purely secular celebration of friends and family, a blend of nostalgic schmaltz, caloric indulgence and, of course, loot.

Some of you attach higher significance to the day, of course, and I hope your observations are meaningful. I attach those thoughts to the menorah in the window across the room from the Chrismas tree, and it's time for happy Chanukah wishes as well.

Later, I'll be unlocking the pub to tend to holiday orphans and those who just need a break from family. In between, I'll have a thick slab of that prime rib the Brilliant and Beautiful Bride of Upper Left is whipping up down the hall after another round of unwrapping when more family appears.

And tomorrow, latkes!

Whatever you may celebrate, however you may do it, peace.