Anne here, as we say farewell to 2016 and welcome in the new year, with all its shiny new potential. Back in 2009, I wrote a New Year's Eve post reflecting on how much had changed in the previous 10 years. Here's that post. And my, how things have changed since then.
(pic -- Sydney NYE 2006 by Rob Chandler via CC licence)
I'm not much of a one for New Year resolutions, but there are a few things I'm looking ahead to, and telling myself to face the future positively, despite one or two reservations. I have reservations about the direction the world seems to be heading in — greed, selfishness, suspicion, intolerance and unkindness — and I'm determined not to be a part of that. Or dwell on negativity.
As for the things I'm hoping for in 2017 — I want to learn new things, have a few adventures, and make new friends. I'm doing a bit of teaching next year, in several other states in Australia, and in New Zealand, and I'm looking forward to that. I'm also making some changes to my living situation, and that's both daunting and exciting. Stay tuned.
The gorgeous bouquet above is of native Australian flowers, from Swallows Nest Farm in Tasmania. Photo used with permission.
Tonight I'm seeing in the new year with a few friends — nothing big or splashy. A quiet toast, probably in scotch, honoring my Scottish background — Hogmanay is a big deal in Scotland. (Here's a post Wench Susan wrote about it.) And of course we'll watch the fireworks around the globe, starting in New Zealand. My favorite is Sydney's fireworks — nothing can beat that magnificent harbor, the iconic Harbor Bridge and the Sydney Opera House — though I admit that I don't stay up all night to watch every single firework display.
Here's wishing you all the best for 2017 — health, good fortune, creativity, friendship and kindness. Happy New Year!
So, what about you? How was 2016 for you? And how will you welcome in the New Year? Anything you're looking forward to in 2017?