Here is the Rainbow I've been praying for

Well, not quite, but now an oh-so-soon 13 weeks, one of them in the Yucatan. Potential to line-up Amalfi, the Camino all but certain (with harmonica!), Emirates and Haymarket ready to welcome the bearded pilgrim back to civilization in style.

Both the gym and spanish lessons to begin in earnest on the morrow. 2008 ending as good as it was enjoyed, it must be said. 2009 has much to aspire to, but the odds are in its favour. Stay the course. As the one Times and Transcript quote of the day you have read this year states - "Do not turn away when you are so near the goal."

Indeed. One more on the 31st, before this beloved year receives its deserved send-off.