Although I'm in Switzerland as the new year dawns, the chalet we are staying in has Scottish connections, and so what better way to greet 2013 than with the gaelic toast 'slàinte' - health - and a picture of the chalet's quaich, the vessel from which such a toast might be drunk.
Our hosts have helpfully left a note explaining that the design of the shallow bowl with handles or 'lugs' remains unchanged over centuries, although the material of earlier times - staved wood, horn or leather - has been superseded by silver or pewter. Traditionally the quaich is used when offering a guest the cup of welcome and again when giving the farewell or parting drink; so farewell then, 2012, welcome, 2013, and good health and happiness to all who visit here!
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Today is also the fourth birthday of Cornflower Books and we're having a draw to celebrate, so if you'd like to be in with a chance of winning a mystery book, please put your name in the hat by way of a comment there.
