Dear Sweetheart,
Relish in the annual celebrations marking the end of one year and the beginning of another. Take a night to reflect on accomplishments of the past year, evaluate decisions you’ve made, and attempt to right any wrongs. Remind your family and friends how much you love them and set attainable goals for the upcoming year.
After a fun New Year’s Eve night out with your father, I have a few suggestions for you:
Dine with friends over a good meal. Make reservations at least one month in advance.
Order an appetizer and a dessert, but take half of your entrée home. This will keep you from over-eating and feeling bloated. Bloating and late-night celebrations are not a good combo.
If you are 21 and decide to indulge in adult beverages, do so responsibly. Have a designated driver. A designated driver is not just the person who has had the least amount to drink, but the sober one.
Make these arrangements before the night begins and if the designated driver ends up intoxicated, call a cab.
Wear something bold, glittery and fun! Buy a new blouse or necklace, but always remember that a little goes a long way with regard to sequins.
Please wear clothes that are age appropriate. Do not dress like the 50-something woman I saw decked out in a metallic mini, rhinestone hooker boots, ridiculously low-cut wrap shirt, and black sequin fedora. (Again, a bit of bling is better than appearing like a disco ball.)
Regardless of age, wear something that covers your rump and bumps. I’m not saying you have to dance the night away in a turtle neck and sweat pants, but good judgment and tastefulness is far sexier than a woman who is trying too hard.
When the clock strikes midnight, a toast and kiss from the one you love is socially appropriate. If you happen to be single that year, don’t stress about the kiss. Save it for another time and don’t waste it on some drunk guy who smells of cigarettes and cheap cologne.
Most of all, stay classy. Represent yourself, your family, and your Lord with dignity. Don’t make choices the last night of this year that you ultimately may regret the first day of next year.
Best wishes and lots of love for the many “Happy New Year’s” ahead in your life!
All my love,
Mom
P.S. If you are lucky enough to find a gentleman like your Daddy, you will always feel loved, safe, and blissful on New Year’s Eve. So, even if a New Year’s Eve is spent home on the couch with Chinese take-out and a movie, you will be joyfully content.
Jessica Brashear is married with two children. Read her blogs here on momaha.
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