There's so much to say about 2008, but I feel like so much of it has already been said.

Our constant-information culture has us bombarded with factoids, details, cross-references, compilations, side-notes, postscripts, analysis – the list goes on and on.

So as I sit here, pondering the state of the industry (between wondering why it's always so cold at my desk!), I'm struck by the fact that with all the information out there, all the analysis and predictions, no one really knows what's going on.

There, I said it.

And that, I think, is the single biggest factor driving consumer confidence right now. There is an overwhelming amount of information about what's happening in the economy, but no one knows who's right or wrong, or when it will change, or what the next shoe to drop might be.

So we've all gone into “hibernation,” as theNational Retail Federation terms it. And hibernation at this time of year — unless you are, in fact, a grizzly bear — is a scary thought in our industry that relies so heavily on its fourth quarter, especially holiday, sales.

In this issue, we release the results of our 2008 Universe Study. We think of this as the Big Daddy of all our research projects, because it measures the overall size of the business, then divides it by our nine product categories and by channel of distribution.

So, add this to your pile of data. But before you relegate it to other stacks of stuff, keep in mind that no one else compiles this information. No one.

In this world full of facts, this survey stands alone. But with that, know that this is in many ways as much art as science, particularly as we look toward 2009 with our forecasts. As I have said here before, the world is changing very quickly, and no one knows for sure which way things will go.

Even with the chips down as they are this year, our industry represents about $70 billion in sales at retail. That's big bucks, and there are still big bucks to be made in this business.

When the American consumers wake up from their long winter's naps, will you be ready?

We will get through this. In the meantime, keep your chin up and remember to count your blessings, and if possible, use a little money or time to help out someone in need this season. We could all use a little good karma, right? Have a wonderful holiday season.