so why again are we doing the good deeds?

This is an interesting read: Ricky Gervais on god, science, atheism, and being a good person. For a continued conversation the paper added this section: Ricky taking questions from readers.

ho ho ho

Ups and downs in the Swedish-American Christmas food prep:

Turkey: Definite up. Roasting breast side down for 45 minutes, then breast side up until it's done. Basting with butter and honey and an improvised spices combo. Stuffed with oranges.

Snickerdoodles: Definite up. Extremely tasty. Heavy on the butter. Yum yum yum.

Saffron bread: So-so. I'm not a fan of dry yeast, and I haven't been able to find any fresh yeast this year.

Gingersnaps: The dough is the best part. Absolute up for the dough. Cookies baked unevenly. So-so.

Sill: Best of Abba, and IKEA.

Chocolate: Truckloads.

Deconstructed Christmas tree: Definitely up. Pictures to follow.