Appetizers to greet the New Year

Jen Arrr, Wikimedia Commons

Crispy, fried wontons are a popular choice of appetizer for a holiday gathering.

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I have mixed feelings about all the hoopla over New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, even though I do enjoy any excuse to gather with friends and family (especially if there’s food). Parties are usually fun and memorable events, and it is good for people to forget their cares for a little while and just enjoy life.

As far as New Year’s resolutions go, I do not make any. I think I did when I was a young adult, but it became clear that I was just following tradition. Most of the people I knew who solemnly made their annual resolutions did not follow through on the ritual for more than a few weeks, if even that. To me, it seemed that some folks were just setting themselves up for failure, or perhaps they just did not take any of it very seriously. I am of the school of thought that if we are aware of any self-improvements we need to make, any day is as good as another to begin that quest.

A new year is, after all, more of a calendar event than anything else, even though we often hear comments such as, “I’m so glad last year is over. What a terrible year. Now the slate is wiped clean and we all get a brand-new start.” If that helps people feel hopeful and motivated, I am all for it. But if, for any reason, you miss out on any or all of the New Year festivities, please keep in mind that every day is a new beginning, and we are offered that clean slate on a daily basis.