Random thought #1: Why do so few Christians fast? (At least so few of the people I’ve known.) It seems to me that in our current consumer culture, where there is such a tendency towards gluttony and addictions of all sorts, fasting is an especially important discipline. We are compulsive eaters, compulsive spenders, controlled by compulsive desires that may or may not be healthy, but definitely shouldn’t be calling the shots in our lives. Fasting brings the flesh into submission to the spirit, brings our compulsive behaviours under submission to our stated values. It is a way of learning and practicing self-control. Why aren’t we fasting?

Random thought #2: Working from home is not all it’s cracked up to be. Don’t get me wrong–I’m incredibly grateful for all the opportunities my family has had–but it’s REALLY hard to know when the work is done, to cultivate a family life that isn’t dominated by business bleed-over. On the upside, we have a very integrated lifestyle. On the downside, we have a ten-year-old who is deeply concerned about the economy, and has strong opinions on the state tax code. (And yes, I consider that a BAD thing.)

Random thought #3: Microsoft Office 2007 is a thorn in my flesh. I don’t mind working in it, but I’ve NEVER had so many problems getting files to convert properly. (Well, okay, getting my ancient Claris Works files converted was a nightmare, but this is Word, for crying out loud! I expect better.)

Random thought #4: iTunes is also becoming a thorn in my flesh, although I have a sneaking suspicion the problems are due to Windows Vista. iTunes ALWAYS crashes the first time I open it, and hasn’t played properly in two days. I probably need to go in and dig through my preferences again, but it is getting rather tiresome.

Random thought #5: Hmm. I guess I’m fresh out of thoughts. Signing off.