Warmest Holiday Wishes from me and the Mrs for whatever you and yours may observe at this time of the year. An old year is coming to a close, and a new one will begin. While that has happened millions (or only thousands, if you are so disposed) of times before, the camaraderie we share is precious, and may it grow in the years to come. And may each of you and your families and friends see good health and good fortune every day.
Cheers-
Al
Cheers-
Al
I would like to add my own greetings to what Al has eloquently posted. We're all together (wife, kiddos, me) with some of my Portuguese family coming to celebrate the traditional Christmas Eve meal of boiled cod . . . not to worry though since I have a big stuffed bird in the oven to provide that American touch. It has been a difficult year for us and for many others as well, and we look confidently ahead . . .
ReplyDeleteMay all who read this post and comments enjoy this season . . .
For all that I may arm-wrestle with you, brothers, I wouldn't forego your comradeship for anything on Earth. I am as godless as a man can be, but I, too, feel the call to peace and brotherhood that sounds louder at this time of year than any other. Would that we could find the space in our hearts for that lovingkindness the other 364 days...
ReplyDeleteMay you all find yourselves surrounded by the peace and love of those you love, and with hope for the New Year.
And I want to add my own thoughts for those of my Army brothers who are far from home tonight. I was always single when I was on active duty, and the tradition was for the single guys to pull the duties on the holidays, so I know that many of my single brothers are on Staff Duty, or have the TOC, or are pulling gate guard tonight so that the married troopers can be home with their families, or on the MARS calling home, or texting, or just thinking of their families.
So here's to you, guys. My thoughts are with you. May you come home safe and whole.
As we approach a new year, I wish the very best to each of you. Looking forward to another year of hanging out in the Pub.
ReplyDeleteThe same to you Al, and καλά χριστούγεννα to your neighbors. Do they celebrate on the 25th there or on the 12th day?? Our youngest granddaughter (a four year old) has learned every verse in that xmas carol. I myself can never get past the partridge and the pear tree, so she must get her memory from her grandma.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes and hopes for the Season and the coming New Year, mike, bg, Chief, seydlitz89, and Al.
ReplyDeleteThis past year was a rough one for civvies and soldiers alike, and I just read a distressing bit about a Seal in Afghanistan. We've had some death in the family, economic hardship, ups and downs, but still around. "dum spiro, spero"
And the interpretation of the Mayan calendar turned out a dud. So another year is on its way, a better one, we pray.
God bless you all, you and the ones you care for, and those of our group that have not checked in yet, and our casual readers.
:)
bb
Mike
ReplyDeleteWe celebrate on the 25th (Gregorian Calendar - same as you) in Greece. However, the partying and caroling continue through New Year's Day, so social life is full for a week. We also observe the 26th as a bank holiday, like many other European countries. Coffee shops were packed today, and it's a great way to catch up with friends and the like.
Some Orthodox countries still stick to the Julian Calendar for religious holidays, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian, even though they use the Gregorian for all other matters.
Couldn't say it any better than you all have. Happy holidays and a great new year for us all.
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ReplyDeleteGood wishes to everyone here -- the level of debate is par excellence. Phil Carter would be proud, I'm sure ;)
ReplyDeleteA healthy and saner 2013 is my hope for us all this coming year.
Good wishes to everyone here -- the level of debate is par excellence. Phil Carter would be proud, I'm sure ;)
ReplyDeleteA healthy and saner 2013 is my hope for us all this coming year.