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Sunday, January 1, 2012

In Which Some New Year's Traditions Are Mandatory 



Okay, so it's that time of year again when my long-time buds and I get together to ring in the new year and flip off the old one. It's a long-standing tradition, carbon dating back to our college years in the early 80s. It is a spontaneous act of defiance that has stuck.

Truth be told, I don't remember 2011 being so awful. Or maybe I've just perfected the art of memory blocking so well, my denial seems like reality. There were emotional, financial and health-related hardships that befell several of our family members, some of which will seep into the beginnings of 2012. However, there is definitely hope that things will turn around. With love, patience and a positive attitude anything is possible. A little humor doesn't hurt either. Neither does a bottle of wine or two shared with compadres.

I have much for which to be thankful in 2011. My amazing Mom, Big Mar began her 90th year amidst her fold of adoring family and friends. Her spirit and spark continue to be an inspiration. My ailing brother-in-law stabilized and is making the most of what's left of his life. I got to see a lot of truly tremendous live music in 2011, traveling quite a bit with friends in the process. And best of all, I continue to be blessed with Geo's love, friendship and humor. After 26 years of marriage, we can still make each other laugh. That's huge, people. HUGE.

But, you know, tradition is tradition so...

Buh Bye, 2011. This bird's for you, BABY!

(P.S.: Dear 2012: you can forget about that whole Mayan-end-of-days thing. KThxbye.)