Ball-Dropping Doldrums?

Still not sure what you're going to do on New Year's Eve? Don't worry, 'tis the season for last-minute plans.

Personally, I think the night gives real holidays a bad name, offering little more than an excuse to overpay for a night out, only to get let down by big plans that don't deliver on their promise. If you want hype, feel free to get your gala on, but I believe that low-key is the way to go. How many years of frigid ball drops, anti-climactic concerts, or mind-numbing parties that end with some demented, amateur-night drama does one need to endure before they realize that an intimate gathering is the best opportunity for a great night? Family, close friends, plenty of good food and drink, and a guest room and couches for everyone to crash on. Anything more than that, and you're asking for trouble.

I was interviewed by Los Angeles Times writer Adam Tschorn for a New Year's Eve feature that ran in the Image section of this Sunday's paper. It's a great article that concentrates less on what to do, and more on how and why we choose to do it. Click here to read it online.

Here's to a safe and enjoyable New Year's Eve, and a healthy, happy and prosperous 2009!