Aught Not

The last day of 2009 dawned silent and white, with so many inches of fresh snow dusting the streets and catching on our rooftops view. After a late breakfast, I watched, unplanned, "Shadow of a Doubt" before giving in to the inevitable task of dismantling our Christmas tree. In one carefully packed box, I included a short note to myself. Folded and slipped between the ornaments, I'll come upon it one day next December, when I unpack our decorations to trim another tree, in another city, in another apartment. It will serve as a small reminder to my future self of how I'm feeling on this day, and what I'm hoping for and anticipating in the days that will pass between now and then.

Later tonight, Gus and I will honor a special tradition. One of us will slip a nondescript, black leather notebook from our bookshelf, and in it we will turn to a fresh page. After titling it "2009," a list will be made of that which we are most thankful for from this past year. The lists start out the same - our marriage, our health, our family and friends. Laughter, vacations, good meals we have shared. Included also, some things private, perhaps small but significant moments that have stood out over the course of the last twelve months. Once we reach the end of our list, or the end of the page, the notebook will be closed and returned to its place on the shelf, not to be opened again until this time next year, when what still awaits us will be remembered and recorded.

A happy and safe New Year to all!