Happy New Year

Yesterday's New Year's Eve celebration ended up being a low key affair. I had planned on taking Robby, my niece and my two nephews to a neighborhood party to ring in the New Year. (I was particularly tickled with the fact that the countdown for this kid centric celebration was scheduled for 10 PM vs. midnight.) On my way to my Mom's I stopped and picked up fireworks, expecting that I would be instantly propelled into the "World's Best Aunt" strata.

Within ten minutes of arriving at my Mom's she received devastating news. One of her good friends was in a car accident on Tuesday. Both she and her husband were pronounced dead, while her daughter and grandson are in the hospital being treated for serious injuries.

The festive mood instantly turned somber as my Mom tried to absorb the news. I knew that she was hurting, yet I found myself at a loss as to how to help her. I resorted to the only thing I knew to do- I went to the bakery and bought a pie and a cake. 

After setting off the fireworks after dinner, we all changed into our pajamas and quietly watched TV. Robby, Timmy and I were tucked in before 9. To quote my little Koopa, "we rung in the New Year from Sleepyland."

Today Robby is participating in the Penguin Plunge. Although jumping into the freezing cold river isn't my idea of fun, I'm happy and excited to support him. He has raised almost $700 for the Humane Society, and I am extremely proud of his efforts.  Rest assured, I'll post a video this afternoon.