The Season of Giving

Mr. Lee commented this morning on his much anticipated birthday gifts. His mother sent a commuter raincoat - very lobbyist, don't you think? - and a fruit basket. Interesting gift selections, I might say, but, after all, it's the thought that counts.

In the same vein, though, I went Christmas shopping with my mom last weekend. She asked me what I wanted, and, as in years past, I said, "a surprise." To this she kindly, and quite honestly, replied, "Denis, you're of the age now when you will only receive ugly ties for Christmas."

Quite disturbing. She said it so matter-of-factly that I was left with no room for argument. It was if she said, "Son, you're old. Deal with it."