New Year's eve is like every other night; there is no pause in the march of the universe, no breathless moment of silence among created things that the passage of another twelve months may be noted; and yet no man has quite the same thoughts this evening that come with the coming of darkness on other nights.
~ Hamilton Wright Mabie
The clock struck twelve, the fireworks went off, the champagne and apple cider were toasted and sipped. Our whole family was there along with dear, dear friends. Add games (Speed Scrabble, Apples to Apples, Wits and Wagers) and enough food for three or four parties, and you have a happily welcomed new year.
All of us around the table were reluctant to guess for the new year. Between us we have ill parents, tight finances, and enough teenagers to change the world for good or naught for many years to come. We'll just gladly greet each day and trust the plans of One who knows much better than we. I am grateful to have such friends to live life with. What a gift.
I have a few hopes for the new year. I want to cook more and have guests for dinner more often. I started the year making Boeuf Bourguignon for us and my mother. It was a huge hit. Next up, something with fish. Not sure what yet.
It is also the year of reading Flannery O'Connor (works by her and works about her.) My list includes:
The Complete Stories of Flannery O'Connor
The Habit of Being: Letters of Flannery O'Connor
Flannery O'Connor: Spiritual Writings
Flannery: A Life of Flannery O'Connor by Brad Gooch
Flannery O'Connor and the Christ-Haunted South by Ralph Wood
Flannery O'Connor's South by Robert Coles
Cooking, reading...add to that enjoying my family and you have the extent of my "plans." That's enough to make for a mighty fine year, wouldn't you agree?
And here is my prayer for all of us this year:
Remember us, 0 God; from age to age be our comforter. You have given us the wonder of time, blessings in days and nights, seasons and years.
Bless your children at the turning of the year and fill the months ahead with the bright hope that is ours in the coming of Christ.
You are our God, living and reigning, for ever and ever. Amen.
1 comment:
If you like salmon, Julia Child's "Braised Whole Fillet of Salmon" is simple to prepare and fabulous to eat. It is one of our family favorites and makes a great meal for company as well.
Joy
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