I’ve been so caught up in the news, I haven’t had much time to reflect on the year past. It hasn’t been an easy one, really. For me the year was dominated professionally by a new book and a major and exciting job change, but personally by the loss of my father, whom I think about quite a bit. I spent the last holiday with him in Florida, and my memories of that time are vivid if bittersweet. I’m grateful for them—but it will be hard not to have him here this Christmas.

For the country, this was an exhausting year, one in which economic calamity was intertwined with political hope. On balance, it’s hard not to say that I’m glad it’s over. These are not easy times. Let us hope that 2009 brings better news.

As always, thanks to all of you who read and participate in this blog. You make it worthwhile. Have a wonderful holiday, whichever one you celebrate. And come back soon.