Happy New Year 2017

Sun Wukong and Malcolm Jr. polished off this unique 

Cork Oak Acorn Beer.  We can't take them anywhere!

We have celebrated New Years together 42 times!   I think on most of them we were awakened from a deep slumber by the noise of neighborhood fireworks and for 12 years hoping they wouldn't set the field next to our house on fire.   We have gone bowling, camping, to a handful of friend's parties, and to sleep, but the one we remember vividly was our trip to Japan.

New Years Mochi and Totoro Coffee Cup from Japan

It was a clear cold night as we walked through the quiet rural streets to a local shrine in the small town of Uchiko.  We stood in a long line waiting for midnight and the deep resonance of the ancient gong that each person took a turn striking.  Afterward we stood by a large drum of fire to warm our hands while we drank hot sake to warm the rest of us.  It was a peaceful time to contemplate what was and what was yet to be.  Little did we know of our adventures to come.

Wiring on the floats full of pyrotechnics 

This year is our first year in Coimbra, Portugal and we decided to go to the river bank to watch the fireworks.  It was a brisk 5C / 40F and we bundled up and drank hot buttered brandy while we waited for the show.   The city put on a very nice display and people from all around the city came to the river to watch.  It was a great way to celebrate.  January 1st breakfast was pancakes and Vermont Maple syrup that we happily devoured and later we will be taking our daily 2 mile walk to town under the brilliant blue sky and sunshine.

Make a wish on the Dandelion seeds

Our adventures for 2017 continue to grow as we make plans for a cruise on April 22 to the Western Mediterranean visiting England, Spain, France, and Italy.  Then in July/August we are hoping to meet Lisa and Steve in Paris!  Wow, we never thought we would be saying that.  But first, we have Linda's 62nd birthday on January 16th and our 43rd Wedding Anniversary on February 1st.  Sometimes I feel like I am living in a movie or a life that belongs to someone else and I have to remind myself that I am awake and this is all mine!

We want to thank all of the people that are following our adventures.  It is truly a small world and we are very happy to have communication with friends across the planet.  You never know who you will meet and make connections with just by standing next to them and saying hello.  Our lives are better and richer for those moments when we stepped out of our comfort zone and trusted that everything will be ok.  These memories make our hearts twinkle with love!  No matter where the year takes you, remember to spread love and kindness.

Seriously... it is Sirius

Coimbra from our side of the Rio Mondego