2013!

Our holidays were a little delayed in some ways and stretched for more enjoyment.  My brother and sister-in-law came over a couple of days ago with our Christmas presents and New Years gift. They gave us a generous gift certificate to a fancy restaurant called Christies so we'll take mom there to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary in a week or so. 

The gorgeous Corningware which we love will be put to immediate use and mom is thrilled with the plum wine. 

You'll notice they also presented us with a New Years kadomatsu.

I got the following information from Wikipedia:

A kadomatsu (門松, literally "gate pine") is a traditional Japanese decoration of the New Year placed in pairs in front of homes to welcome ancestral spirits or kami of the harvest. They are placed after Christmas until January 7 (or January 15 during the Edo period) and are considered temporary housing (shintai) for kami. Designs for kadomatsu vary depending on region but are typically made of pine, bamboo, and sometimes ume tree sprigs which represent longevity, prosperity and steadfastness, respectively. "The fundamental function of the New Year ceremonies is to honor and receive the toshigami (deity), who will then bring a bountiful harvest for farmers and bestow the ancestors' blessing on everyone." After January 15 (or in many instances the 19th) the kadomatsu is burned to appease the kami or toshigami and release them.

Art and I considered getting another one like we did last year, but mom kept telling us we didn't need one since they're so expensive.  An arrangement like this is about $17.  Feels pricey when you figure you have to burn it in a few days.  I wanted to paint it gold and keep it for the following year, but mom says absolutely NOT!

(By the way, these two photos were taken with my iPad.  It really isn't as good as my regular camera and does not do well in low light.  The iPad doesn't appear to have a flash feature.  Another problem with the iPad is that it's not easy to transfer files from my P.C.  Other than that, I really love it.)

Then Art's Honokaa friend, Morris stopped by with some mochi for us to eat for New Years that he pounded himself.  We were very impressed.  Mom warned us that each little mochi paddy is the equivalent of one bowl of rice.  Ah well...

#1 on my 2013 Resolution is:

Walk off the carbs.  Let's all get out there and exercise!

Happy New Year, one and all!