Merlin’s favorite times of the year are the fall and spring, simply because that’s when windows can be open and he can watch (and smell) the birds and squirrels that he’d like to be outside chasing. Here, he peers intently at the back yard through the open window right next to my desk earlier this week. Merlin is the one who disappeared for a couple of days after an escape through a screen about two years ago. He doesn’t seem to eager to leave the comforts of home behind after that adventure.

Gingrich threatens to skip debates if he can’t dictate audience rules
Florida requires drivers to hand over personal info — which it then sells
For me, money always comes best when I’m pursuing higher purpose
Buffet’s hypocrisy: His company owes IRS $1 billion in back taxes
If you vote, you’re my real enemy — no matter who gets your vote
Voting Rights Act oversight rules should reflect today, not the past
FRIDAY FUNNIES
Narcissists teach their victims they aren’t allowed to have needs