So today was the talent show at Monforton School...and my six-year-old put on a great performance playing the drums. I think he actually surprised people with his skill at providing consistent and interesting rhythm. I was so proud. It put my mind in an interesting direction for the afternoon. I realize that just about everything in life is TIMING and Rhythm. We have a unique opportunity to only recognize what "fits" into our sense of timing and rhythm and act accordingly. When all things are as they should be...a sense of timing and place come naturally.

10 second insight:

FNMA 4% gained 12 bps today with the absence of the GIANT t-note auctions that have become the norm lately.

YIKES...Treasury notes have gotten so close to a ZERO yield that China has negotiated their own rates as a stipulation to continue investing in our bonds. Who wants to have billions invested with a less than 1% return?

Dow FELL 184 points... Retail sales have actually fallen for 8 of the last 10 months. WE need to see some confidence in our employment and wealth before spending returns so this number may continue to be down.

Oil is at $58.02/barrel.

Rumors that the government would like to regulate pay for the financial industry...may not have been received well today. Hmmm...now that the government will potentially own a major share of several of the nations major banks with the conversion of stock from preferred to common: they may be able to do this. Some may say: serves those "fat cats" right. Others see this as a sign that the free enterprise which actually has made America GREAT is at risk.


Have a great eve,