Black Friday? Nah.

Did you eat too much yesterday? It's probably a safe assumption that most of us did. I hope you were able to enjoy some quality family time and find some things to be thankful for in your life. This time of year brings so much joy to our lives we sometimes forget that it is also one of the most stressful times of the year. So don't forget to take some time for yourself as the end of this year fast approaches.

n Did you know that today has been nicknamed Black Friday? One theory goes to the accounting practice that this Friday begins the shopping period of the year that puts the retail businesses "in the black" while another one goes to the number of people out shopping on this day and the stress it causes being likened to other "black days." The accounting theory has a few holes in it since many say that the Saturday before Christmas or Christmas Eve or the day after Christmas is the biggest shopping day. It just seems like a gloomy description to what is generally a happy time of the year. The stress from the crowds may carry more weight in today's world. People get so busy that they forget some of the simplest courtesies and safety tips that can prevent accidents in the home or on the road. Please be mindful of your surroundings and take care because we don't want to lose you.

n I truly enjoy all the craft fairs that occur during the fall. It always amazes me at the amount of talent we have locally and the creativity of these artisans. I have to admit that seeing all the varying ideas and interpretations gets my creative juices going, too. I go from "I could do that" to "Why didn't I think of that" to "I never thought anyone would buy that" and back to the beginning again. I always leave the show with a renewed sense of inspiration as well as a desire to try something new. Don't you think that's how things get improved upon and inventions get created? It always amazes me to see the crafts and artwork that comes out of sheer ingenuity - especially the ones that are creating something out of nothing - a true testament to the human spirit.

n As a reminder: Watch your speedometer as you drive the streets in our neighborhood. Children are out of school a lot this time of year; and with the varying track schedules, it isn't always just this four-day weekend or the two weeks around Christmas and New Years Day.

Have a ramblin' good week!

n To reach Gail Davis, e-mail hilltopranch97@charter.net or call 265-1947.