From chatting to friends it appears we were not alone in going to bed well before 2025 made an appearance. From France to Queensland, Mauritius to Suffolk, staying in was new going out! Maybe it’s an age thing but it seems like a very long wait after the celebratory dinner until the Big Ben dongs commence. Well done to those of you that ventured out. There have been plenty of amazing NYE’s, on a boat in Sydney Harbour twice (lucky me!), in a pool on the Gold Coast after playing golf at night (yes really!), overlooking the London Eye, underneath the Petronas Towers, at a pub on the Norfolk Coast in a ballgown to name a few. This year I was in my dressing gown on the roof terrace at home.
The fireworks were spectacular. Surrounded by 5 star hotels with big budgets and a view of the coastline for miles made a pretty impressive display. The downside is of course the noise, our little dog was terrified for nights on end as the celebrations are pretty continuous here between 24th December and 3rd Jan. Despite blackout curtains and Spotify on full blast she hides shaking in my shower cubicle. The size and scale of the fireworks on general sale to be let off on the beaches and from rooftops is staggering, it’s remarkable that there don’t seem to be any serious incidents. Now I love a firework or rather several thousands of pounds worth but only in a controlled environment. Governments should ban anything other than “quiet” fireworks that don’t have the extra bang put in during the manufacturing process. Switzerland and a few other countries do this already. I know there is still an environmental impact but fireworks that are up to 100 decibels quieter would be a good start.
I do not make New Year’s resolutions. Always seems like setting yourself up to fail at the beginning on the year only to beat yourself up a few months later when the inevitable happens. Far better to set realistic shorter terms goals throughout the year that aim toward achieving something rather than giving something up. Last year I made a concerted effort to drink moderately and felt much better for it. Christmas, New Year, birthday all come at once, but after this weekend once the celebrations are over moderation it is. More on that in the next blog.
May 2025 bring you everything you wish for.
Not Quite Settled 
Please share your thoughts and experiences.