Put a big dent in my X-mas shopping today, and did so by lending my patronage to stores in The Annex. Didn't have to deal with any insane malls, got some neat gifts, and supported local businesses. Yay, me.
The New York Times has a lengthy (and timely?) article on the heavy costs of chronic stress. (Free registration required to view.) (Link via MemeMachineGo!.)
On a less stressful topic, Graig and Gary offer their top album picks of 2002. I don't recognize everything on their lists, but of the stuff I'm familiar with, I'm inclined to concur with their views.