What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?

Traditionally, New Year's Eve is spent preparing for the new year. HermitJim has had a lot of wonderful info on his blog lately about such matters but basically, and if possible, all unfinished business should be completed, all debts paid (especially if to an individual), affection extended to all you meet on this day and of course, hospitality offered in the form of dinners and parties.

This is also the night more correctly associated with serving eggnog, rather than Christmas Day, because of the symbolism of eggs to newness and birth.

I also read about a ritual which I thought was very interesting and would be an easy but thoughtful thing to do. Think of all the things in your life which you consider to be a blessing (things you are grateful for) and find a small object that would symbolize each of those blessings. If you still have your tree up, these objects are then placed under the tree on New Year's Eve and left until the new year to assure their continued presence in your life. I just think it's a neat thing to do to help us remember the really important components of our lives.

I know this is a crappy photo but maybe you can tell what I have here. Now, I did not put Grendal there but she obviously thought she was important and needed to be included! And she is! I'm very grateful for my furry companions. They're good company and give me much love. So, I started with a blanket, which would symbolize the security of my home and having a warm, dry place to sleep. My hammer, which is work and my ability to do for and take care of myself. Several gold and silver coins, which is of course, for financial security. The bigger rock there is for my land, something that I am immensely grateful for. I am very fortunate to have this beautiful property. The bundle of lavender is for the earth's gifts of food and the sweet things in life. The mug is one of mine and is there because I'm so grateful for my artistic ability because it enhances my life but also because I can create items that other's believe enhances theirs. Last, but not least, is the heart-shaped rock. Though I don't have a permanent mate, I do have a large group of loving friends and several of the items here were gifts from friends. I am also fortunate enough to be able to enjoy the company of a man, on various levels, when I need it.
So, what would your items be? Do you think I left anything out?


*this song has been done by countless artists; I like Diane Krall's version.