MISSOURIANA

U.S. Sen. John Ashcroft says it's too early to begin any campaigning against Gov. Mel Carnahan for next year's Senate race. It's a relief to know the unrelenting attacks by both men haven't been about politics.

There is a period of time between Thanksgiving and Christmas when things seem right with the world: The kids are still in school, and there's still enough turkey for sandwiches.

Missouri politics may be puzzling, distracting and even ugly. But at least the state can be thankful that Hillary doesn't want to be our next U.S. senator.

If you believe time isn't passing fast enough, consider this: There's less than a month before the Missouri General Assembly goes back into session.