As in previous years we didn’t do anything last night for New Year’s Eve except stay in, keep warm, and stay safe eight floors away from the war zone on ground level, which as usual during this time of year was no-man’s land lest you literally want a fiery start to the year and a visit to the hospital. It still surprises me that in a country governed by clear rules that anyone can just buy fireworks and set them off anywhere they pleased. This morning as we walked to our car, I noticed less detritus than last year but still saw proof of the festivities, and even some on our vehicle. Nothing serious but obviously something I never want to see ever. Being a Sunday and the first day of a new year, I thought it would be impossible to get a brunch booking anywhere but I was happily mistaken when I called and instantly got a table for two for the Jazz brunch at the American Hotel. Live music, buffet lunch, sparkling wine – here’s to continuing traditions in 2017 and making new ones along the way.