In an earlier thread, where someone asked what folks' Hogmanay plans were, I bemoaned the fact that I would likely be watching Ryan Seacrest and some pop music groups from my recliner while my wife snoozed on the couch.

I'm glad to report that, since that time, we have been invited not only to a New Year's Eve party, but a Hogmanay celebration. The hostess runs a small Scottish Country Dance group and promises demonstrations. She's also encouraging guests to entertain in some way, with a song, a tune or a story. I'm planning to bring a big batch of Scotch eggs and read "Tam 'o Shanter." Haggis will be served and, if no one is planning to address it, I'll offer to do that, too!

I'm really looking forward to this.