My Mum is Scottish and my Dad was Irish so it's little wonder that New Year's Eve celebrations have always been a big event when we were growing up. I remember when we were small children, and fast asleep in our beds, Dad would come into our rooms and wake us all up just before midnight so we could welcome in the New Year as a family. Naturally, we upheld the family tradition yet again this year. We used to also adhere to the Scottish tradition of first-footing but we don't do that as much any more unless we have visitors who can participate as our first-footer.
Beau (son) and his partner, David, came over for dinner and also to welcome in the new year with us. We played cards, listened to music, danced, laughed, and chatted the night away. We welcomed in the New Year with this beautiful song — Auld Lang Syne — which never fails to bring a tear to my eye. Interestingly, Robert Burns, the man who wrote this popular song had never intended for it to be a New Year song but it became a steadfast tradition among the Scots. I love this particular version. If it doesn't play within this post, you can go to the direct YouTube link HERE.
Beau and David left to head home at around two in the morning but Bradley and I stayed up all night to greet the dawn, as we did last year. The sunrise wasn't too spectacular due to low-lying clouds, houses, and trees in the way but it sure felt good to greet the dawn of a new year.
First dawn of 2017
I've been trying my hand at a few vegan desserts of late. This is the one I made for New Year's Eve — a peanut butter mousse with whipped coconut cream, nuts, shaved dark chocolate which I then drizzled with golden syrup. Quite delicious!
On the topic of sketching/illustrating, I have decided to give the 365 day challenge another go. I tried and failed last year but, this year, I don't think I'll be as hard on myself. You can expect a lot of very loose, simple sketches.
Here is today's sketch. Last week, I pruned my Desert Rose right back and I'm happy to report that it is already starting to show new growth.
I'm linking up to Sunday Sketches again. To see the work of other participants for this week, click HERE.
It is now 8:30 pm on New Year's Day and I've literally had no sleep for 40 hours. My bed is calling to me so I will say goodnight and sweet dreams.
Wishing you all the best for 2017!
It is now 8:30 pm on New Year's Day and I've literally had no sleep for 40 hours. My bed is calling to me so I will say goodnight and sweet dreams.
Wishing you all the best for 2017!
Love, light and peace.
