It's time to change my default icon from a Christmas tree, I think.

Look, the US government is looking at doubling the federal gas tas ... because people are driving less. That'll learn 'em, huh? (I mean, the tax is ridiculously low, so I don't think it's a bad thing, and since it's the major funding source for a lot of US infrastructure, clearly the money needs to be raised somewhere ... but the cause and effect is a bit comical.)

Quote for the day from Roger Ebert: "I have found that nothing cures wealth like illness.

Quote of the day from shadowdaddy's former coworker, who lost her husband last year: "The act of staying alive is nothing like the act of living."

Anyway, welcome to 2009, folks. Time for me to get off of the couch and get started on cleaning my flat.