December 31: Ursher out 2014

New Year's Folklore: 

Some customs and beliefs are simply passed down through the ages. Here are some of our favorite age-old sayings and proverbs.

On New Year's Eve, kiss the person you hope to keep kissing.
If New Year's Eve night wind blow south, It betokened warmth and growth.
For abundance in the new year, fill your pockets and cupboards today.
If the old year goes out like a lion, the new year will come in like a lamb.
Begin the new year square with every man. (i.e., pay your debts!) –Robert B. Thomas, founder of The Old Farmer's Almanac 

So, whether we resolve to return borrowed farm equipment (as did the Babylonians) or drop a few pounds, we're tapping into an ancient and powerful longing for a fresh start

During the early 1970's, there was a saying that the old man goes out and the new baby comes in at the stroke of midnight.  Our son (age 3-4) heard this and always wanted to stay up till midnight to watch the "Old Man" leave and see "The New Baby" arrive!  Hence, he never stayed awake till midnight--he was always fast asleep by 10 PM!