So here we are now in 2013 - the Christmas festivities long gone, and just awaiting 12th night to pack away my tiny and trusty Christmas tree for another year.
Once again my husband and I were treated to a fabulous night of feasting, dancing and fun at Maria's (taverna Efrem) in the village.
This is the 5th year that Mr Me has donned his red robes and beard and played the part of Santa Vassilis ( Santa Clause) - sneaking off to delight Maria's kitchen assistants just before midnight, by stripping to his underpants and re emerging as a fully clothed father Christmas - launching into the restaurant at midnight to much singing, party - popping , back slapping and excitement.
Midnight also heralds Maria's son, Georgio's birthday - so two cakes were on hand to mark both occasions. I'm now quite familiar with the traditional Cypriot New Year song, which is a foot stomping hand clapping number - just right for getting everybody out of their seats and swinging their pants on the dance floor.
The village lights for the season are lovely as ever, and create great atmosphere - however, unlike UK, New Year is very much celebrated through private parties behind closed doors. I remember even in Paphos some years ago, when we were new to Cyprus, walking the silent streets on new years eve looking for ' a happening' - which just didn't exist - although all the hotels along the front were packed with cars. - So the four of us sloped off home and had our own little party.
Now we ' get it' - and are lucky to be involved and included by our very good friends Maria, Leo, and family. - How times have changed from that lonely evening many years ago.
So lets all hope that 2013 brings better times ahead than for many have been in 2012. In Cyprus we have a general election in February, we are into the second year for our new Muktar Michaelis, who has been working hard for the good of the community throughout the year, and I sense a time of positive developments - lets hope so, and say YAMMAS - to all that.
Once again my husband and I were treated to a fabulous night of feasting, dancing and fun at Maria's (taverna Efrem) in the village.
This is the 5th year that Mr Me has donned his red robes and beard and played the part of Santa Vassilis ( Santa Clause) - sneaking off to delight Maria's kitchen assistants just before midnight, by stripping to his underpants and re emerging as a fully clothed father Christmas - launching into the restaurant at midnight to much singing, party - popping , back slapping and excitement.
Midnight also heralds Maria's son, Georgio's birthday - so two cakes were on hand to mark both occasions. I'm now quite familiar with the traditional Cypriot New Year song, which is a foot stomping hand clapping number - just right for getting everybody out of their seats and swinging their pants on the dance floor.
The village lights for the season are lovely as ever, and create great atmosphere - however, unlike UK, New Year is very much celebrated through private parties behind closed doors. I remember even in Paphos some years ago, when we were new to Cyprus, walking the silent streets on new years eve looking for ' a happening' - which just didn't exist - although all the hotels along the front were packed with cars. - So the four of us sloped off home and had our own little party.
Now we ' get it' - and are lucky to be involved and included by our very good friends Maria, Leo, and family. - How times have changed from that lonely evening many years ago.
So lets all hope that 2013 brings better times ahead than for many have been in 2012. In Cyprus we have a general election in February, we are into the second year for our new Muktar Michaelis, who has been working hard for the good of the community throughout the year, and I sense a time of positive developments - lets hope so, and say YAMMAS - to all that.
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