Close By

(Mood: Warm, lyrical, with a soft-pop or acoustic arena-rock rhythm. Voice — expressive, soulful, with a smile.)

(Intro: Gentle bell sounds, transitioning into a soft guitar or piano rhythm)

(Verse)
Once more, the snowstorm paints its knots and swirls upon the pane,
And memories of all our bygone years come back again.
But on this night, it's not the numbers or the final score,
It's just the light within your eyes, gathered by our tree, and nothing more.
And I will raise my glass, not simply to the falling snow,
But to our shared, warm laughter — the finest prize I know.

(Chorus — sounding light and heartfelt)
Happy New Year, my dearest ones, to you!
May good health come a-knocking at your door.
May the Lord protect and always see you through,
And may Lady Luck smile on you evermore.
We will weather every storm, as we always do,
Because together we are family, it's true.
Happy New Year, my precious ones, to you,
May your deepest, fondest wishes all come true.

(Bridge — music softens, becomes very personal and intimate)
My thanks to you... For every drop of care you share,
For every bit of warmth you've given me.
For knowing in this world of hope and prayer,
Such wonderful friends are right here, close to me.
May you be well, and in God's keeping stay!
This is my simple, heartfelt wish today.

(Final Chorus — sounds a bit broader, full of hope)
Happy New Year, my dearest ones, to you!
May good health come a-knocking at your door.
May the Lord protect and always see you through,
And may Lady Luck smile on you evermore.
We will weather every storm, as we always do,
Because together we are family, it's true.
Happy New Year, my precious ones, to you...

(Outro: music fades, leaving only a light strum of strings)
Yours, Sophia.