I know I just sent a post, but here I am on January 3 semi-industriously clearing out my office area and adjoining room for repainting while — of course — listening to podcasts.

Terry Gross, who hosts the long-time radio show/podcast called Fresh Air, always has some wonderful music played after the interview at the very end of the show. The tunes are not always identified (which frustrates me), but after the interview with Francis Ford Coppola that was rebroadcast on December 31, she played and identified this one: Peggy Lee singing Regina Spektor’s “My Dear Acquaintance.” In my opinion, it beats the heck out of Auld Lang Syne (no offense to Robert Burns’ fans) and, I think, expresses such warm wishes with a lush, piano and string accompaniment. Favorite line: “And a happy new year to all that is living / To all that is gentle, kind and forgiving. . .”

I need to listen to more Peggy Lee. I know she was famous when I was a kid, but the only thing I remember hearing her sing was the song “He’s a Tramp” from Lady and the Tramp.

I’m sure Peggy Lee has much more to offer. Will listen to her while I slog away at this. [First song that came up was “You Give Me Fever,” which is quite familiar. Even this popular culture ignoramus will probably recognize many more. . .]

I would dearly love to put off this odious moving task and add a kid quip, but I will refrain from the temptation.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if 2021 turned out to be “gentle, kind and forgiving?” We can dream.