As I write this, it is the first day of a new year. Yes, 2026 dawned bright, cold and silent. No dog Rupert, no children, no wind. Just stillness. At least for me.

I actually made it to midnight, much, I am certain, to the surprise of my friends and family. Indeed, to my own surprise. I had fully intended to go to bed early but found myself waiting for that ball to drop in Times Square. Yes, I know that Times Square is in New York, and that New York is in the United States, and that I should have been watching what was happening in Nathan Phillips’ Square in Toronto. But old habits die hard.

It wasn’t even a particularly good show. Anderson Cooper is far more appealing when he isn’t downing shots of tequila and giggling.

I wasn’t really watching the show........

© Peterborough Examiner