Like most folks, I have a wide spectrum of friends.

As fall temperatures dip, and this endemic, former COVID19 pandemic and flu season again make their presence known, I am reminded of two life maxims for this time of pumpkin spice and the holidays.

Instead of penning something for Santa this year, I thought I might instead try to leave a note for Elon Musk, Genius and Budget Cutter in Chief, for helping another jolly man with a big round belly....though perhaps better known for keeping an enemies list than for checking things twice.

While I never really viewed our large, multi-generational, predominantly Irish-Catholic family as the Norman Rockwell portrait at Thanksgiving, as a child I always enjoyed the often raucous gatherings and holiday gorge-festivities, four generations deep, that were our Thanksgiving, Christmas and occasionally Easter holiday gatherings.

Four years ago, at about this same time, I was repeatedly telling many of my Trump supporting, GOP and conspiracy leaning friends... PLEASE stop this Stop the Steal crap.

Our Founding Fathers were certainly not perfect.

This is my 7th presidential election cycle, and 25th year of providing political analysis and commentary.

On November 11, at 11 a.m., whether or not I am able to attend a service or commemoration, I plan to pause and reflect on Veteran's Day on the service and sacrifice by the millions of American men and women who have served our nation in uniform with distinction in each service branch. On occasion, I try to shine a spotlight on that service and in this moment, I salute our U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.