Insights from the Street: Happy Holidays!

Kansas City's Country Club Plaza. In 1925, a tradition began with a single strand of 16 colored lights
placed above a doorway in the Country Club Plaza to celebrate Christmas.

It seems hard to believe that we only have two weeks left in 2011, does it not? For some, turning the page from 2011 will be very welcome; this past year has certainly produced its fair share of challenges. For those that truly prospered: count your blessings - you are very fortunate, and are likely in the minority.

While I foresee 2012 being challenging as well, it is our hope that good leaders will emerge that will help to forge solid solutions to the problems that ail us. These problems are complex and there are no easy solutions. It will take courage, discernment, and a deep collaborative spirit to dig out of the hole that we are collectively in. We can do it though. We have done it before.

That being said, we all have a lot to be thankful for. I’m going to keep this month’s Insights a little bit shorter than usual, and a little bit lighter on the economic commentary. This is mainly due to a couple of reasons: 1) People are busy in the holiday season, and 2) Thanks to #1, I have yet to buy a single gift (let’s keep this amongst us, friends). Seriously though, I hope that for those of us that find it easy to get caught up in the bustle of the holidays, that we can take the time to slow down and to reflect. Sometimes it seems far too easy to miss the reason for the season and to fail to fully enjoy such valuable time with family and friends. I have learned in the past year not to take it for granted.

All of us at Walla Street wish you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year! For our Clients: Thank You so much for your continued trust in us. We would not be here without you. We will work hard in 2012 to continually improve and will strive to find ways to serve you better.

Your trying to slow down and be thankful (including for Amazon) analyst,
Justin Deruy
justin@wallastreet.com

Monthly Riddle: I am the center of gravity, and part of every victory. I am clearly seen in the middle of a river. Three are in love with me and I have three associates in vice. What am I?

Last month’s riddle: I went into the woods and got it. I sat down to seek it. I brought it home with me because I couldn't find it. What is it?

Last month’s answer: A splinter.

P.S. Congratulations to Wayne Slauson who won last month’s riddle drawing!