Obviously the numeric indices aren't as important as the the patterns they attempt to quantify, but overall I suspect that NAO blocking is less impactful for you guys in the current base state. The return flow before a shortwave has just been a little too warm. I know, I know: it's been rare lately to get a well-positioned block that lasts. But transient boot-leg stuff used to have a greater probability of meaningful results. Will that change some if we can ever get out of the -----PDO dregs, I don't know. I sure hope so.
By the way, I loved your work in Blazing Saddles. Would you consider signing up for a remake?