First things first.

I have so much to write about in the beginning of this new year, as I do every January 1, but the concatenation of circumstances (as PG Wodehouse would say) is such that I can't.

Fortunately, today is a Solemnity, so I will allow the Theotokos to speak for me.

"May it be done unto me according to Thy word."

"Many, my beloved, are the true testimonies concerning Christ. The Father bears witness from heaven of His Son: the Holy Ghost bears witness, descending bodily in likeness of a dove: the Archangel Gabriel bears witness, bringing good tidings to Mary: the Virgin Mother of God bears witness: the blessed place of the manger bears witness." ~Cyril of Jerusalem