The new year has afforded me a development that will ensure my felicity for a great long while. Though I have not been entailed a great estate or have the best connections, my dearest Natalie has consented to marry me. Since the success of any proposal is less than guaranteed I was gratified by her acceptance, especially after recently "witnessing" the refusal by Elizabeth Bennet of both Mr. Collins and the first proposal of Mr. Darcy. Though I do suppose both were deserving of such a response given the manner of their asking. Okay, I admit it... I love Pride & Prejudice. It may be coincidence that I have been reading the book lately while anticipating my own engagement, but perhaps not. It is such a romantic story that it seems entirely appropriate reading for such a time. It also seems to have altered my writing style somewhat, and for that I most heartily apologize to the readers of this blog and to Jane Austen. I have a peculiar regard for the delightful and quite faithful BBC miniseries, and recommend it most highly. The recent feature film, while excellent, is simply too short to convey the wit and charm of the book in its entirety. I hope you will find the time to enjoy the story in the way you choose, and I wish you the very best over the coming twelvemonth.