new year's eve

My friend Ruth and her husband Rich have invited a few people over to welcome in the new year.  I wear my stylish but uncomfortable booties as my friends only live one building away. 

Although Ruth has prepared enough food for fifty, it’s a small party of only nine.  In my opinion, it’s the perfect sized get-together.  The conversation flows as freely as the alcohol, but everyone remains well-behaved.  Most of the people I know well, but at this small party I get to know some even better.

The hosts tonight met at a New Year’s Eve party years ago and almost instantly fell in love.  I don’t have any New Year’s Eve memories like that.   Most of mine are just blurs.  Some party somewhere.  Waiting in the cold for a cab. Hoping to meet someone and being disappointed when I don’t.

But tonight is nice.  It’s easy and comfortable.  I like all the people.  The conversation is stimulating.  We even end up describing how our parents met.  Rich’s parents married  within two weeks of meeting.  Scott’s mother was married three times (twice to the same man and once widowed) before she met and married Scott’s dad.  And someone else’s parents had a pre-arranged marriage.  It is all quite interesting.

Tonight won’t be remembered as a spectacular New Year’s Eve.  After all, I didn’t meet the man of my dreams. But still.  It's a nice way to end the year — being with friends, eating well, and sharing good stories.

It’s after two now, and I’m waiting for Alexander.  I will sleep better knowing he is home and safe.

I look forward to a new year and all the possibilities it holds.

Wishing you all a happy 2014.