"We believe in us"

So sayeth the magnificent Ozil, and who could say otherwise after that dominant performance, if a  nervy finish.  Toure Yaya strikes an outrageous goal to leave Cech stranded, but for once it is not enough, and we are moving clear of the pack toward... say it to belize it... Leicester at the top. 

Southampton away on Boxing Day.  Then Bournemouth and Newcastle at home.  Top by the start of the new year, you would think, with rivals floundering and key players returning for the run-in.  Now is the time.  This is the year, etc.  (Look back on this and weep, I hope not!)  Post the GMac goodbye, after a career-highlighting name-drop.  Remember?  The Trump debate invitation not materializing, but knowingly time to move on from that, so what odds.

Ay, ay.  Been thinking more and more about the "summer place".  How can you not?  The more the realtor searches into the evening continue, the more the Tancook comes up trumps in terms of price and location and mystique.  There is the thought of waiting, and patience.  But why, and for what odds?  Only snow.  And the idea that something could occur over the winter to the spot that would lead to doubt.

If that is truly the reason, it is unconvincing.  Because it is not like the owner will fix it up for you if damage is caused.  More likely a surprising winter offer may grab the attention, and allow for the acceptance of the low-ball.  So, is this a plan I see developing?  Visit on a Friday in January, with the agent, as early as the 15th.  Offer subject to the usual caveats, with a decent deposit.  Maybe even without an agent of your own, or with Stacey to accompany?  Close on March 1, just after the return from the Barca/Tidal extravaganza (where I have just booked the castle view, because, again, why not)?  Or even April 1 an option if more time needed?  The key is to start the ball rolling and give yourself an impetus to begin.

Come what may, I like it.  It feels like the place.  A cool, non-negotiable $65,000/70,000 all-in on the table (depending on inspection), with 20% down, to see where they will go?  Run the mortgage out a few years so there is room to put the rest toward 601 and the RRSP?  And flexibility to pay down as required in future?  I do not even mind keeping the payments to a 25 year cycle, as this is one that you will now own for good.  Heh.

More, surely, anon.  Think I have finally sobered up from those massive two steins.  One for each goal.  As 2016 ticks closer.  More time to reflect on the year that is passing soon.  And excitement for the developments on the beach to come.  The setting of consequential decisions in motion.  So you will never have to wonder what if...  hahaha.