Finally home, sitting at the iMac, and getting ready for the first normal work day in more than a week. But here’s what is left from sifting through today’s news dust:

* TAP launches series of 19 essays on long-range strategy for progressives.

* Bolling drops out of 2013 VA gubernatorial race after wingnuts set up Cuccinelli win via convention instead of primary.

* At Wonkbook, Brad Plumer draws attention to pending expiration of extended unemployment benefits.

* At Ten Miles Square, Jonathan Bernstein attacks myth that Senate rules can only be changed on first day of session.

* At College Guide, Daniel Luzer takes on idea there’s any “fair” way to police admissions to elite schools.

And in non-political news:

* Toymaker creates allergy-free lunches for dolls with sensitivities to foods.

Back tomorrow for a full and regular day.

Selah.

Ed Kilgore

Ed Kilgore is a political columnist for New York and managing editor at the Democratic Strategist website. He was a contributing writer at the Washington Monthly from January 2012 until November 2015, and was the principal contributor to the Political Animal blog.