I am a creature of habit. I like having the same rituals and traditions year after year. My town has a cute New Year’s Eve tradition called “Starry Starry Night.” This has been my family’s New Year’s Eve tradition for years now.
This is an event that the local businesses all get together to sponsor. There is usually a small parade, ice sculptures in the square, a fire pit and hot cocoa station at the fire department, and a variety of venues with entertainment. You might be going to the town hall to see a magician, and then to the church to watch some dancing.
It is a night full of community togetherness and wholesome fun. For years, we have been able to wander around visiting with friends and neighbors as the kids rush from activity to activity. We are always so very thankful for the crafting stations at the outfitter store, the cookies handed out by various local clubs, and all of the variety shows.
The star of the evening is always the fireworks. Now, we are a very small town. We do not wait until midnight to set off the fireworks. By midnight, we are all home and in jammies, waiting for the big ball to drop (at least I am)! So, at about 9:30 pm, we all gather around the town square while the local fire department oversees the fireworks display. It may be small, and it may not last a very long time, but it is always so much fun to watch.
As the last sparkle flickers in the sky, we all grab our last cup of cocoa, and a cookie (if any are left), and start wandering home. This is our way of celebrating the end of a year and the start of a new one with our friends and family.
New Year’s Day dawns and all of the possibilities of a new year are upon us. Some people like to make resolutions…this is the year I am going to stop x or complete y. Some people like to set goals…this year I am definitely going to do z. Me…I am a little simpler.
Each year, I set expectations for myself. This year, I would like to find the positive in each day. This year, I want to try a little harder to learn something new. This year, I would like to grow squash without killing them. Nothing too tough to tackle (well, except maybe the squash).
Any way you look at it, it is a new year. It is a time for new beginnings and chances. It’s time to tackle anything that you set your mind to. I hope you all have a fantastic 2024, and I would love to hear what your goals are for the year!
