Upon my initiation the team of people with whom I work are doing a "secret holiday exchange." We decided that it would span a work week--beginning yesterday and going through this coming Friday. On that date we will all go out to lunch in Little Italy, where we will exchange final presents of the week (the pieces de resistance)in a dramatic "reveal" ceremony.

Tomorrow morning, I am placing a mammoth order with Amazon.com, and going for the expedited shipping. I have a lot to get done. Have started the process of addressing Christmas cards--am thinking I will do a letter to go to closer friends this year.