It may seem corny to say this, but its easy to forget how lucky we are to have this hobby - something we enjoy doing for its own sake - yet that has the added, priceless benefit of enabling us to meet and feel a kinship with people from all over the world, and in all social and economic walks of life.
I have many great neighbors whose friendship I enjoy very much (parties, poker, golf), but who never travel outside the USA and know little about the people and countries of this world. A few really appreciate the hobby I love so much, but many "just don't get it". Oh well, it's their loss. I suspect my experience in this regard is similar to hobbyists all over the world.
Anyway, don't ever forget to stop and "smell the roses"! Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to all the Planeteers and their families out there. Let's hope 2005 is a "Best of Show" year for us all!
Bill Horan