Hogmanay '23 and Traditions

First-footing was a thing my dad always believed in; in old Scots tradition, the first person (usually a dark haired young man) to cross the thresh-hold of the home should bear symbolic gifts that assure prosperity to the occupants. Tradition says that it should be salt, coal, or black bun (a dark fruit cake), but more recently, a symbolic coin would do. That said, my dad always made sure I had a quarter to toss across the thresh-hold if I went out for NYE. I guess I've been remiss in my passing along of traditions; Meg stopped in while her car warmed up today, and nope, no spare change got tossed in the doorway. However, she did come bearing wine and Sambucol-- they are symbolic of a light heart and good health, I guess. That's what I'm saying, anyhow, and I doubt anyone is going to argue that point.

Isn't that an interesting word, "thresh-hold"--I mean, it's original, traditional meaning was the slight rise at the door to keep the floor rushes inside. Practical, definitely. Now that most of us do not spread rushes or straw on the floor (not intentionally, anyhow), the thresh-hold is more of a symbolic thing. What are we keeping in? Or out? Or is it following blindly an architectural tradition that serves little purpose? I like the idea of it being a sort of sacred boundary, keeping family safely together.

Tonight, my little band of family is gathering for a New Year's Day dinner. I will make lasagna and meatballs, garlic bread, and probably broccoli (because lately, veggies have tasted like manna from heaven). The wine will be poured, and we will pop the Christmas crackers I forgot I had bought. We'll see what kind of toys and jokes are inside. We'll all wear paper crowns and be a little silly. Holly will love it. I hope to pass on lots of traditions to her (and I'll make sure I fill in any gaps in Meg's tradition-chest, too). Family, traditions, and a little silliness-- that's a recipe for a good start to the year. 

May you and yours always have enough,

C