Hogmanay, here we go

Well, Hogmanay has arrived, whatever happened to 2011 ? Call me an old sentimentalist but I still like the symbolism of New Year ; out with the old, in with the new, reflecting on the year past and looking forward to the year ahead. All that stuff. Brief recollections of 2011 ? The highlights - Billy Bragg at the Queens Hall, Bombskare and From the Jam at Wickerman, Man City winning the FA Cup. Oh, and the family managed to remain healthy and happy throughout, which I suppose is something of an achievement. Low lights - the Scottish Parliament election, obviously. An enjoyable but ultimately fruitless campaign. Continuing problems at Hearts, will we see some stability in 2012 ? 

Looking ahead, the 2012 Local Government elections loom ever larger on the horizon and most time and energy will be focussed on that in the months ahead. No doubt the independence referendum will continue to be the subject of much media speculation. Perhaps the FM will just get on with it. Some chance. If I get some time in the summer it would be nice to get my handicap down.

Heading up to the street party tonight to catch a couple of the bands and soak up the atmosphere. In true wimp fashion I'm planning to back in the house before the bells, with a large dram, the feet up, watching Still Game, which I'm going to record. Good to know that some fine Scottish traditions live on !

All the best to all for Hogmanay 2011 and a peaceful, healthy and successful 2012.