Though I can't remember what web-site I saw it on, I recall reading that solar scientists are pretty confused by the delay in the start of the new solar cycle. IIRC, some scientists were saying the days of the 11-year cycle are over. Others were saying this could mean an onset of a Maunder Minimum and associated global cooling like the Little Ice Age. Even others were saying it meant the Cubs would certainly win the World Series in 2009.

So the opportunity is still there to start stocking up on cold weather gear and Cubs memorabilia.