"What impresses me most about Catholic mythology is partly its tasteless kitsch but mostly the airy nonchalance with which these people make up the details as they go along. It is just shamelessly invented." -- Richard Dawkins

Well, a happy last week of the year to all of you, whatever significance it may or may not hold. After spending no less than three full days either in airports or in arduous transit towards further airports, my seasonal spirit is at low ebb. But don't let that hold you back from having a merry whatever.

After a surprisingly active and interesting beginning to their offseason, the Rockies have moved into a period where it's unlikely that any further drastic moves will take place. It's true that Todd Helton talks with the Angels continue to be mentioned in the press to a degree such that we have to take them seriously. However, despite the obvious symbolism that would be attached to a trade ushering Helton out of Denver, from a standpoint appreciating the hard numbers such a deal wouldn't come anything close to rivaling the already-consummated Jason Jennings move in both short- and long-term impact. Helton's recent production level wouldn't be at all hard to replace, and a precondition of any deal would be the Rockies continuing to shoulder a large portion of the many millions of dollars still owed. In a few years' time, it might be awfully nice to have whatever relief Anaheim might offer to turn around and invest in a Garrett Atkins or Aaron Cook extension, but as far as this offseason is concerned Colorado wouldn't free up enough money to do anything major. And, really, who will there be left on the market worth anything?

I will afford that I would miss watching Todd Helton play for the Rockies if he does end up being dealt. He's one of those guys my father enjoys gruffly referring to as "a ballplayer," and I enjoy hearing him do so. It's a spring ritual I would very much miss. It won't be the same if Jamey Carroll or somebody becomes the Rockies' new token one guy my dad begrudgingly respects.

It would be more convenient for me, from a blogging standpoint, if Dan O'Dowd would politely hold off on doing anything further of import for another two weeks or so. After my obligatory calendar-ending family vacation, I've signed on to help out a friend's band with a two-week West Coast tour beginning New Year's Day in Wyoming (which is exactly where I've always wanted to begin a year; maybe Tracy Ringolsby will be there). I'll put the dates up on Western Homes, as soon as I'm sure I know what they are.