We seldom celebrate the things that have real meaning. By the end of today things could be very bad, not so bad or really really bad. In my way I warned you. I mentioned the bubble economics, I guided you to the prudent path of low expectations and modest tastes. But you lent that money to the financially risky, scoffed at the suggestion of war bonds, you invested in another dot com and you stocked the larder with champagne.

Unlike you young pups, being a Maritimer of a certain age, I've lived through recessions and know there is a far end to them that can be seen and reached. I know the value of a cup of tea and the trick of putting out the cookies that no one really likes so they will be there to be put out again next time they visit. I've had to choose between bread or beer and once in a while chose beer and was the better for it. I have moved to a new place for work, not for a better job.

Will you have to do anything? What will you do if it does happen? Spring is just weeks away. Plant something just in case.