Welcome to the year 2025. It has arrived, a year of transformation that promises to be dynamic in every sense of the word. January 1st might signify a New Year, but January 20th will bring in a new era. After the American inauguration, will we see morals, values, and peace restored? 

We are entering an era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) whereby technology can benefit humanity immensely. On the other hand, manipulators of such advanced technologies could ultimately destroy humanity with profit being the sole motivator. 

It was a very sobering New Year’s Eve, as I had dinner with my Mother, sisters, brother-in-law’s and my youngest sister’s Mother-in-law. No children were present. 

My responsibility was to go pick up the Portuguese BBQ chicken and potatoes. The store was open until 5 pm and they didn’t take orders over the phone. So I left at 4 pm, and when I arrived the line was out the back door. My daughters, say when you are in traffic rather than get frustrated, listen to your favourite playlist and relax. 

I just had my phone, so I waited patiently, for an hour as the aroma of grilled chicken made my mouth water. I must have been drooling once I got to the order desk. The young woman looked at me with a gaze in her eyes. Was it the guaponess of my latest haircut, or hurry up I got to get out of here and prep for a party?  I couldn’t even say the word “potatoes”,  to boot, I forgot the hot Piri Piri sauce. Oh, how I dreamt about being 19 years of age once again! 

Nonetheless, once I paid, I carried the treasure to my car and proceeded to pick up my date for the evening, my puppy, Yoshi. 

Dinner was amazing as always. Mom made a porcini risotto and emphasized how expensive the sleeve of these rare mushrooms cost. I think we had to enjoy it no matter what.  

Once we were done, I took the dog for a walk and visited my 90-year-old Uncle George. He used to bribe me with Jelly donuts and hot chocolate to go ice fishing with him when I was a kid. Maybe this is why I am having a hard time shedding weight.  The sugar fix I enjoyed, destroyed my metabolism. I think I still have frostbite from the experience. I wished him well and to live till 102 years of age and have a great night. 

I made my way back to my Moms, as desserts were being served. The chestnuts, cookies, strudels and the highlight of the evening was the $140 Panettone I bought from a client. Imported from Italy and infused in grappa with added apricots the product was decent. Though it was moist and somewhat delicious, I can’t believe I spent that much money on a dessert! Panettone at the Terroni group of restaurants is much more reasonable and delicious. Made in Canada, try them, you will love them! 

As the stretch run to midnight was counting down, it was time to play Tumbola, the Italian equivalent of Bingo. When playing the game with two widowed women, caution needed to be exercised. Playing cards were 0.25 cents a piece and the pot was around $3.50 /game. The intensity was enormous, the stakes were high. It wasn’t just about the money, it was about the bragging rights.  My baby sister was the caller and her husband won most of the games. We all thought there was some monkey business going on. Fortunately, for them, it was almost time for the clock to strike midnight. We had to stop before further investigation could take place.

The countdown was on! But before we got up to jump and hug each other we placed one final wager on which one of the six grandchildren would call first. Knowing, my girls, it was easy money! The prize was mine for the taking as they were both the first to call in and wish us a Happy New Year! It was a proud moment but really how many more chestnuts could I eat?

The clock struck midnight! I kissed my mom and headed home with a dog. I hope this is not the prelude to my future and something much more exciting and meaningful is in store. 

Lastly, I saw a game that asked me to write down the first 4 words that I see and that these words will encompass the path I will take entering 2025. They were as follows: 

Gratitude, Purpose, Connection and Creation.

Stay tuned, I think something significant will happen this year. I wish you a very happy and prosperous New Year. Stay in tune and remember, I am nothing without you! This is the 2nd year in a row, that I kissed a dog for New Year’s and then ended the night just going to sleep. What has life become? Fun Wow! 

Then again, we might be in for more than we expect. Click here listen carefully and let the imagination run wild! 

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