Ring in the New Year

Planning to spend New Years Eve with family and friends? Whether you are called on to make a toast or volunteer to say a few words, some advance thought will help you avoid an awkward moment.

A New Year toast should be short and sweet.

Spending the evening with a large gathering of friends - keep it general.

Stick to the positive.  Avoid the temptation to make it personal.

Use humor sparingly.  If you have a joke you want to use - practice.  Late at night after a few drinks is not the time to botch the delivery of a poorly planned joke.

Write it down.  If you aren't sure you can trust your memory and/or ability to deliver the toast.  A roomful of festive people, imbibing on their favorite drinks can be a tough crowd.

Here's a toast to the future, A toast to the past, And a toast to our friends, far and near. May the future be pleasant; The past a bright dream; May our friends remain faithful and dear. ~ Anonymous

Happy New Year!