New Year’s Eve in the City
Esther Schönwandt
It’s New Year’s Eve morning in the city, and Annabelle finds herself without plans for the evening. Her best friend is out of town visiting family, leaving Annabelle to contemplate how to make her night special. The weather forecast predicts a lovely snowfall beginning in the afternoon, and she realizes there’s enough food in her fridge to last a few days, along with a couple of small bottles of champagne chilling inside. It seems she may be spending the evening at home, watching TV and enjoying the enchanting spectacle of snowflakes drifting by her twelfth-floor apartment.
As the clock strikes 4 PM, the snow begins to fall gently, with flakes swirling gracefully through the air. Entranced by the sight, Annabelle prepares a simple yet comforting dinner, then settles by the window to admire the transformation of the city into a magical winter wonderland. Each passing moment brings a fresh layer of white, covering rooftops and streets alike. As she finishes her meal, an urge arises within her—a desire to venture outside, to experience the serene beauty of the city blanketed in snow.
With a sense of adventure, Annabelle takes one of the small bottles of champagne and pours the effervescent drink into a thermos. She layers herself in her warm winter coat, shawl, mittens, and toque, wrapping up snugly against the cold. Satisfied that she’s ready for the chill, she steps out into the winter evening.
The streets are almost deserted, an eerie calm enveloping the city. Annabelle wanders through her neighborhood, reveling in the peaceful atmosphere that the snowfall has created. The shop windows are beautifully adorned for the season, twinkling lights casting a warm glow against the white backdrop. Every few minutes, she takes a sip of champagne, savoring the bubbly warmth as it complements the crisp, cold air. As she passes a few scattered pedestrians, she wishes them a happy New Year, a smile on her face and a sparkle in her eye.
Immersed in the moment, Annabelle allows the tranquility of the evening to fill her heart, nurturing a sense of peace and contentment that she can carry into the upcoming year.
When she finally returns to her cozy apartment, cheeks rosy from the cold, she decides to indulge in a nostalgic tradition. She settles onto her couch and puts on an old Christmas movie, the warmth of the atmosphere wrapping around her like a favorite blanket. As the movie plays, Annabelle drifts off to sleep, feeling grateful for the peacefulness of her New Year’s Eve.
Happy New Year, and to all, a good night!
2024
