31 December 2009
We enjoyed a relaxed day, leading up to our attendance at the New Year’s Eve party being thrown by friends Bill and Kathleen. I snapped this photo of Kyle and Cormac as we watched television and considered what we were going to cook for brunch. It was a very strange day for us—the first New Year’s Eve in sixteen years when we’ve been home, but weren’t hosting a party. I think I’d have to say we were feeling both relieved, and a little lost. I know I actually missed all the crazy preparations we usually go through—and the excitement.
And also, uppermost in our minds today, are all the incredibly wonderful memories of our Hogmanay Holiday in the UK last winter. On this day, one year ago, we were walking the streets of our home away from home—Edinburgh. We were sitting in a pub just off Princes Street; we were attending the biggest New Year’s Eve party on the planet. How very grateful we are for that exciting experience and those memories.
But, this year, the excitement was all at Bill and Kathleen’s house where, by the time we arrived, the party was in full swing. The table was full of yummy food, the house full of good friends, and the fabulous vintage cocktails were flowing! I started my night with the vintage cocktail called a “blue moon!” I figured that was appropriate, considering that if we had been able to see the moon through the cloud cover, we’d have seen a beautiful full moon—the second of the month, and thus, a “blue moon.” Everything our beloved bartenders Glenn and Dan mixed for us was absolutely delicious all night long. And, at midnight, Kyle and I toasted the New Year with the special bottle of Blue Moon Grand Cru that we took with us to the party. We said our goodbyes shortly after all the kissing and singing, and were pleased that the drive home was swift and easy.
And so, we welcome 2010. Even though there was no beating of the house with branches or firstfooting at our door, we trust that the year will bring happiness and contentment to us and to all our friends and family. May it be a year of joy and accomplishment—a year of love and light and laughter.
Happy Hogmanay!
~MB
