I'm in New York City through this coming weekend — vacationing with no particular agenda other than a long-overdue visit to a favorite city.

I first came here in 1972. The famous Charging Bull wouldn't arrive for another 15 years. Although I've returned to Manhattan many times, today was the first time I actually caught up with the Bull.

My blog posts will be a bit lean over the next few days as I take in the sites. I'm doing my best to boost the economy with some excess discretionary consumption. However, the latest numbers from the Consumer Metrics Institute (see my updated charts) suggest that I could really use some help.