Every year I try to write another "traditional Yule carol of the Shire".

Here's my 2015 New Year's Wish for one and all! Imagine the hobbits singing this around a blazing Yule Log:

Good-bye, Old Year, Good-bye!

Good-bye, Old Year, good-bye!
On moonlit wings you fly!
Take your sadness,
Leave your gladness,
Good-bye, Old Year, good-bye!

Good-night, Old Year, good-night!
The stars are twinkling bright!
Your sorrows are past,
But good times will last,
Good-night, Old Year, good-night!

Farewell, Old Year, farewell!
Your days have ended well.
Take your fear,
And leave your cheer,
Farewell, Old Year, farewell!

Good Day, New Year, Good Day!
The Sun shall have her way.
May our joys be bright,
And our sorrows be light,
Good Day, New Year, Good Day!

Hello, New Year, Hello!
The East is all a-glow!
A new day rises,
Filled with surprises,
Hello, New Year, Hello!