Burning The Old Year

For certain reasons, as well as no reason at all, I didn't go out on New Year's Eve. The trick here is to plan your no plans in advance. Don't do any "we'll see what happens," or "maybe we'll check out that one party for a little while." Decide ahead of time. Put your sweatpants on early. Then when the light falls, you're already settled in and cozy.

Anyway, as holidays go, this one was a bit sad—a night full of memories. However, we were warm inside by the fire and our plates were pleasantly full, which, despite anything, is a life affirming way to spend a winter's eve. At one point, a tidy package was discovered outside our front door. We unwrapped it to reveal a candle smelling of cedar, along with the loveliest note. "Can't help but feel the emptiness. I hope this warms your heart and home." I lit the candle and cried ... for him ... for both of them.

Early the next morning, we drove up a volcano through the blizzarding snow. Tony and Ryan were awaiting us at the ticket line. We hopped the lift and rode hip deep powder until our faces froze off. It was smooth and creamy. It was largely untracked. We whistled and hollered. We went fast. We were happy.

And just like that, a cycle starts anew. Happy 2017, everyone!