*sets aside his book and mug of hot cocoa, removes his glasses, and looks up from the chair where he sits by the fireplace's crackling flames*

Well...this has certainly been quite the year, and it's still not over yet. But there were honestly times I thought I, or so many I cared about, wouldn't make it this far. So to get here at all is a relief and something worth celebrating...and even with the hard road ahead of all of us for so many reasons, there is reason for hope and strength, love and dedication to one another, and determination to do all we can to make next year a better one.

So, I am so very grateful to be here to celebrate, and to have so many friends and loved ones still with me as well. *waves his paw to create the proper spread of cake, ice cream, and other sweet victuals for his birthday, then smiles warmly at every one of you in welcoming encouragement*

Thank you, all.