A day of reading

I had a lot to do today.  I am the kind of person who makes lists, and my list was formidable.  But it was snowing, and lovely.  My daughter Andy is still here post-holiday, but will return to Nashville soon.  Dean had to work at 3, so there was no possibility for a full-day outing.  And I am still a little emotionally exhausted from my father’s death two weeks ago.  So, uncharacteristically, I allowed myself to be derailed by two inveterate readers, and I spent several hours reading Kate Atkinson’s When will there be good news? The title was compelling, and the story was absolutely engrossing.  Thanks, Dean and Andy, for helping me slow down.

A sweet year, with luck

Today is the first day of 2010.  None of us was sorry to see it come, since 2009 ended with the passing of my father.  My dad was iconic, and, when I am able, I’ll write a little about his life and accomplishments.  For now, it is too raw.

Yesterday, in anticipation of this day, I mixed up a batch of my famous cinnamon rolls, and a pot of Hoppin’ John (Black Eyed Peas.)  The cinnamon rolls are a family tradition, usually enjoyed on Christmas morning.  No one minded the departure from tradition when I pulled the fragrant rolls from the oven this morning.

The Hoppin’ John received a less enthusiastic reception.  I admit, it isn’t as aesthetically appealing as cinnamon rolls.  But this family needs LUCK.  And everyone knows that if you want a lucky year, you have to eat black-eyed peas on New Year’s day.   So 80% of family members in attendance had at least a taste of the Hoppin’ John.  I thought that it was delicious.  Let’s hope that it works.  Happy 2010, everyone!