Entry 2:

Good morning? The extra-early rise from that tom was our good morning. The tom reminds me of a particular male type on the prowl in a singles' bar (experience from my youth): not getting any.

Although I'm certain you will consider it a blasphemous act, I often mix up Perry Como and Bing Crosby. When I work it through, my associations are Bing and White Christmas and Perry and his variety show. It's true, my tastes do turn more toward Bob, but Van is the king. And please do not start on that song.

The story that caught my eye in the Times this morning was about a new electronics market. The prison population is on the rise in the United States (more than 9 percent growth last year), and corporate America is responding. Items in prisoners' cells must meet numerous safety requirements. Not consumer safety, but concern for the safety of correction officers and other inmates. So, electronic companies are designing headphones that have clear ear covers (no place to hide contraband) and weaker cords (not enough strength to strangle a cellie). The companies, however, are playing down the new market strategy because not everyone agrees that prisoners should have those amenities. From my experience, the C.O.s are in favor of nearly anything that keeps the prisoners occupied and quiet.

 As for flying ... it looks like the winds will be gusty but nearly straight down the runway. I'll have to check the 1 p.m. forecast.

xo,
G