I’m never quite sure how some traditions get started. I have also noticed that you really only have to do something twice before it becomes a tradition.

Since we moved away from Dallas in 1994, a tradition has developed where we see our close friends, JR and Sue, most years for New Year’s. It actually started when we lived in Dallas because we would usually go out with a group to celebrate New Year’s. Once we moved JR and Sue just liked keeping the tradition going, I guess.

I’m sure the fact that all three of our boys were such close friends had something to do with it, too, but the tradition has continued even now that the kids are grown. We aren’t always able to ring in the new year together, but we try to get together as close to the beginning of the year as we can. This year, they came down to Austin to see the new place and to visit.

Peggy has been scouting out the places she wanted to show off on the initial visit, so we had to go up to Mt. Bonnell for the view over the Colorado River. It really is an impressive sight that is a little surprising since it is almost in the middle of Austin. Here is a picture of Sue and Peggy from the top of Mt. Bonnell:

JR and I were up there, too, but the pictures with all four of us make it impossible to see the view! It was a perfect day to be outside and seeing sights with friends.

The only problem with the visit was that it wasn’t long enough, but we take what we can get. We haven’t lived in the same city for almost twenty years now. We are used to making the most of quick visits whenever we can get them! It is a little easier now that the kids are grown, though.

We don’t get tired of showing people the sights, so come on down to visit! And Happy New Year!