It’s Hogmanay today, and as everybody knows it means big parties across Scotland. There’s also the thing called “First Footing”, which is to be the first over the threshold of a friend or neighbour, bearing some symbolic gift.
Traditionally, this is coal. And until I read the above article, I was worried. Because I’ve not the first clue where you can buy a single lump of coal. Have you? It’s something that used to be bought by the bag load (all in the days before central heating?). To get a single lump is a difficult proposition, although I’m sure an enterprising Scot probably sells it in such quantities. But to go and buy a single lump of coal is such a silly proposition to me, I’m going to buy a packet of shortbread instead. This seems to me to be a far more suitable, not to say more edible and shareable alternative to coal.
All that said, it further transpires that most Scot’s hold on to their coal. Typical really. They first foot, present a lump of coal, then – nowadays at least keep hold of it. It all rather defeats the purpose really. So I’m rather amused by the thought that, across Scotland in storage cupboards everywhere, are plastic wrapped lumps of coal, specially reserved for first footing.
Makes you think, doesn’t it?
Happy new year, one and all. I hope that 2005 brings you happiness.
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