Back in the saddle

I've been contending with some things that had a very tight deadline and allowed me no time to properly formulate my thoughts on the fast moving economic situation.  Now that the task is complete, I can suddenly think again.  (Oh yeah, I took a little vacation in that time as well.  More on that another day perhaps.)

So now, rested, rejuvenated, and with a big load off my back... here goes!