Countdown to 2010 - Part III

The Germans are hot on traditions - which is quite nice when you come from a country like the UK which seems to have either lost, or never had, any decent traditions for festive occasions.  One New Years Eve tradition is "Bleigießen" (lead pouring). On New Years Eve you "cook up" a piece of lead on a spoon and when it has turned to liquid, you pour it into a glass of cold water and observe the shape it forms.  An experienced New Years Eve "lead reader" will be able to tell you what's in store for you in the coming year. Apparently something resembling a ball means luck will roll your way. A bell shape means good news, possibly a birth.  A heart shape means you'll find love in the new year, a mouse shape means secret love, a ring means a wedding, a flower or star shape predicts luck and a cross or broken circle, death or separation. These predictions are best taken with a pinch of salt seeing as most are made close to midnight, or after the bells, when the "lead reader" is probably extremely drunk - but it's all good fun.  Last year it was predicted that I would either get married - or die - so far, not so good.