Presidents’ Day sort of sneaked up on me this year.

At times in the past, I’ve written about Presidents’ Day as a time to appreciate our democracy and celebrate the many freedoms we have as a result. As thoughts of democracy come to mind, the war in Ukraine looms large. With President Biden traveling there for the first anniversary of the war, it makes one wonder about the senselessness of war, once again, and how long it will take for this one to end.

A day off? Only 24 percent of civilian workers receive a paid holiday for Presidents’ Day. The United States is the only advanced Economy in the world that doesn’t guarantee its workers paid holidays, which means that one in four American workers don’t get any paid holidays.

As for shopping, most restaurants and Retail stores will be open today, unlike banks and government offices.

And speaking of shopping, I’m in search of an air fryer without a nonstick interior. Maybe I can find a deal.

For ideas on what to shop for on sale, see my article “What to Buy and Not Buy in February.” Think large and small appliances, mattresses, furniture, and some electronics.

Happy Presidents’ Day.