goodbye 2016

Trump wins.

Prince, Ali, Bowie, George Michael, a Star Wars Princess and her mom all leave this world — along with my brilliant, funny and utterly wonderful friend Carol.

No where are we really safe. Not in the world. Not in our cities. Not in schools. Not in cafes. Nowhere.

We can only pray that 2017 will be better than the year we are leaving behind.

But on the other hand, we can count ourselves among the lucky if we:

• Live in a country where are our freedoms aren't restricted.

• Have good health (so under-valued when you have it).

• Are surrounded by family (even if we complain, and bicker and wish they'd understand us better).

• Have good friends to share our secrets, our joys, and to prop us up when all we want to do is crawl into bed and make it (whatever it is) go away.

• Know our child(ren) are safe and happy and making good decisions.

• Can pay our bills and not be worried about our financial futures.

• And are loved.

I have all but one.

My New Year's eves are now pretty much spent doing the same thing. Staying in. And inviting some friends over to watch a movie and share some food. To me, it's the perfect way to end any year.

So tonight, Robyn, Susan and Linda come over. We toast the new year with prosecco and sushi. Watch The Edge of Seventeen. Eat popcorn and boxes of movie candy (Junior Mints, Raisinettes, and M&M's). And say good night before the new year arrives.

It always surprises me to know that someone I didn't know is reading this blog. Your readership is deeply appreciated; thank you.

Happy 2017. 

To good health, prosperity, and new adventures.