As we count down the days, we soon count down the seconds until the New Year, until the second when those blasts of light shoot up into the midnight air. Cheering, shouting, whistling. All clamor ceases when the premier BOOM airs. Walking to the park, I think about how I know my neck will be sore after viewing the light show, but that is a sacrifice I am willing to make. CRACK, and instead of looking up, I look at the crowd’s faces light up. Camera ready, at the angle to click and shoot. Slowly lift my head up and wish I could just lie down on the grass and wood chips. But I can’t. A dark place above me catches my eye. Something amazing sure to come next. A series of wandering fairies in the sky soon die out. Followed by a glowing hollow star. The new props every year, amusing old timers and delighting newcomers. Topic of discussion at 12:09 when the last light has burned. Sighs of pleasure escaping all those whose craned necks have relaxed. Biscotti and champagne or a whole morning of elegant partying. I just grab a Reese’s cup and go to bed.