The clock is running. Make the most of today. Time waits for no man. Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That’s why it is called the present. ― Alice Morse Earle

New Year’s Eve has always been a day where I rarely make plans or carry on any celebratory traditions; I just let the day unfold, naturally and without any expectations. For me, New Year’s Eve is about being in the moment.

After a three month parade of parties and holidays – Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas – my batteries have completely drained; I start powering down.

I like to call the time between December 26th and the end of the year “hibernation mode”; there is no sense of urgency or thoughts of having to take down the Christmas tree or put away holiday decorations. I spend more time reading, hanging out with my boys, and couch surfing. I am grateful for the quiet and this time with my family.

In the past, we’ve attended New Year’s parties; we’ve hosted New Year’s dinners, and for many years, we’ve stayed home. Staying home, by far, is my favorite.

After the hustle and bustle of the holidays, I don’t want to watch the clock and count down the minutes until midnight and the New Year. Looking at the faces of my husband and children, I already know that time flies by far too quickly.

After a hectic year of school, activities, doctor appointments and caring for my family, I am not interested in reflecting on the “good” and the “bad” things that happened over the course of the year. Looking at the faces of my husband and children, I know that we all survived and made it through the year together and intact.

After a week of downtime between Christmas and today, I don’t need to anticipate what the New Year brings. Looking at the faces of my husband and children, I already have what I need: I am surrounded by those I love and those who love me.

I can push the reset button on New Year’s Day where a fresh start, new beginnings, and exciting chapters await. I do love the start of something new but for today, New Year’s Eve? Today is a gift to savor and enjoy.