After a somewhat subdued New Year's Eve, it is now time to make last minute preparations for my wintering in Thailand. With all the chilly weather and rain here I will be glad to get to a different climate. Here in San Francisco we are now at 163% of normal rainfall (July 1, 2004 to date) with plenty more on the way. January and February are typically two of the wettest months here so no telling how much more we will get. Conversely, January is one of the driest months in Thailand so I will ge experiencing some good weather for the next few weeks.

On the local scene I see where our hapless and hopeless Raiders and 49ers lost again. Does anyone go to these games anymore? Does anyone care?

Democratic Congressman Matsui died this weekend. That is sad news for his family and friends but it also sad for the country as he was important to the committee working on Social Security reform. Hopefully the good people of Sacramento will elect another Democrat in the special election which now must be held to replace him.