I woke up late to a living room full of pre-teens and teenagers who spent the night. The party went well all told, an odd mix of friends and neighbors, none of whom knew each other so that was - um - interesting. Never boring, though!

And we did get a fire last night, both before and after midnight, so my soul is eased. For some reason, it was very important to me to have a fire.

Hubby and I went on a walk to feed the ducks and to shake off any lingering sleepiness. No hangover - haven't had one on New Year's Day for years now. Got back from the walk, fed the hoard on pancakes, bacon and sparkling apple cider, and then went to work.

Home now after doing yet more shopping. Sigh. But my wardrobe has been seriously depleted for too long, and I'm making careful and judicious purchases.

Hubby is building Zaphod a kitty playhouse, to sit in our bedroom near the window. Lucky kitty!

I'm tired but there's cassoulet waiting to be eaten, and champagne to be drunk. And tomorrow, writing and critiquing to do.

So. Let the New Year begin!