Our first snow is finally drifting lazily from the sky in big, fluffy flakes.  An appropriate New Year's Eve gift, and I hope it means more moisture in 2013 for our state, which is in deep drought. Although we woke up to a very thin blanket of white (the kids were beyond excited!), it had all melted off by noon.  Round two might leave us a bit of accumulation.  But just in case, I bundled them all up and sent them outside to romp around under the falling snow.

Meanwhile, I built a fire in the fireplace, heated water for hot cocoa, and finished up a couple of snacks for tonight and tomorrow.  Candles are lit, tree lights are (still) on, and we are ready to cozy in tonight.  Movies, games, TV, whatever we do, it will be by the fire.

Snack #1--Chex Muddy Buddies, aka "people chow"
Snack #2--mini cheddar crackers, any type of cereal, mini pretzels, dried cranberries, and yogurt raisins; all   mixed together.  If I had M&M's, I'd add them too.
Snack#3--no-bake cookies
Snack #4--chocolate-ginger cookies (yet to be made)

...and popcorn.  If anyone is still hungry, there are assorted leftovers in the fridge!  Also picked up some of those cool sparkling juice drinks on my last grocery run.  Yummmmmm.

When a year ends, and a new one looms large, I find myself reflecting on the past, and wondering what the future holds.  Will everyone in our extended families still be with us when 2013 comes to an end?  What big world news events might occur?  What can I do to improve who I am and the way I relate to those nearest and dearest to me?  How will I draw closer to God in the next year?

Pondering these things, as opposed to writing resolutions.  Happy New Year!