2016 was an interesting year, to say the least. While everyone gears up for their big night out to celebrate the start of the 2017, I'm just stocking the fridge for a cozy night in. Here's why.

1) Going out on "big" nights is usually disappointing
This happens all the time. Birthdays, Halloween, New Year's Eve, any big celebration that you make plans for usually ends up being a little bit of a letdown. It's just not quite the glamorous time you thought it was going to be. Don't get me wrong- I've tried to go out on New Year's Eve. I've had an OK time and everything, but it's never quite lived up to the hype. Maybe I'm not doing it right, but staying in and watching everyone file out into the cold while you doze on the couch is much more satisfying. Which brings me to my next point.

2) It's freezing
The combination of spaghetti straps, heels, and 30 degree Boston weather don't make for the best time. I can't fathom standing outside at 1am in the cold waiting for an Uber or walking home. I'm 24 years old and I know what makes me happy. Being cold in high heels isn't on the list.

3) The SWEATING
Yeah. It may be freezing outside but lo and behold, they keep it at at least 75 once you get wherever you're going. You start to sweat around 11, and by 11:30, you're just absolutely covered in what could be your own sweat but is more likely that crazed dancing man's. There's nothing worse than being all dressed up but feeling absolutely disgusting.

4) It's expensive
Suddenly, the restaurant you go to every week is charging $75 just to GET IN THE DOOR. That doesn't like, include a full course meal or anything. They suddenly, because it's New Year's, get to take your money just for showing up. Nope.

5) It's an excuse to make bomb food at home
New Year's Eve is still a holiday. I'm definitely going to whip up something special and it's definitely not going to be vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free or paleo. I know it sounds so lame, but honestly, I'll be snuggled up with a blanket and a slice of pepperoni at 10:30. Where will everyone else be? Standing in line somewhere wearing uncomfortable shoes. Come on, people. Let's be honest with ourselves. Pepperoni > everything.

So here's the plan. I went to Eataly, the new Italian marketplace in the Prudential Center, to pick up some ingredients for homemade pizza. Pat got a pizza stone for Christmas (just in time, I know) so we're going to try that bad boy out. You'll find me happily sitting on my couch on NYE, munching on my favorite food, warm and relaxed as can be. I hope some of you take my advice and decide to start 2017 off the right way- laying on the couch.

Disclaimer: I know that this might be cheating, since I'll have my significant other with me all day/night, but there's nothing wrong with finding your best cheat-meal friend and watching TV for 9 hours together. (Kristie and Steph are doing that, why can't you?)

I'll let you know how it goes. If you decide to venture out into the wilderness that is NYE, good luck! Happy New Year!