While the Have-Nots Look for Work and Housing...
Don't you love off-the-charts contrast? I do. While we have tent cities going up around the U.S., the extravagant offerings of Neiman Marcus' 2009 Christmas Book were unveiled last week. It's their 83rd annual catalog and don't worry, you can get the A5 Sports Aircraft and Pilot Training for just $250,000.
If you need to save $50k, there's an Algonquin Round Table Experience for $200,000. You pick: Henry Louis Gates, Jr., Anna Deavere Smith, Nora Ephron and George Stephanopoulos. I'd go with either Anna Deavere Smith or Nora Ephron and I'd ask for some kick-back money because, well, I have a story to tell that they'd love, too. But mostly I'd choose them because I love their work.
Don't be too quick to judge, though. The usual million dollar plus medley is absent from this year's catalog. Niemans is sensitive to the economic downturn with their recession-aware gifts. You and a friend can learn a unique whiskey-making process step by step for $7,500.
Or if you're more the wine connoisseur you can opt for an exclusive immersion into the art of wine-making, and even create your own vintage -- $20,000.
When Just a Volvo Isn't Enough
I don't know. Do I get the $25,000 Cupcake Car for my daughter's driver training next year? It's powered by a 24-volt electric motor and can be tricked out with a favorite topping and sprinkles, plus a matching hat. Or do I order this for my fourth grader? Good thing I have time to think about this. Her birthday's not until January.
In the meantime, in the spirit of the season, I'm glad for what I have. Life, itself, is enough, considering where I come from and all the times I defied death in one thrill-seeking adventure after another. That's another post, though. More like a book.
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This is another Musing for Mutts Like Me.
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Email: deborah.kjs [at] gmail [dot] com
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