DECEMBER 18

I went to the office to approve expenditures and learn stuff about the town's operations. Our landscaping manager was excited to show me how his crews prepared garden beds for winter. It was a struggle to pretend to be interested. I mean, I appreciated the work they did and the landscapes all around town were Disney World quality, but why did I have to learn how they did it?

I went to the office more than I wanted, and it made me grumpy.

When I got home from the office I found Daria practically bouncing with energy. "I'm volunteering at the senior center!" she announced.

"Good for you,"...