New Years

We celebrated the new year with a visit from some friends.  Janette and Sasha came up and we spent several days eating good food and seeing the sites. 

Having visitors in my home used to be so exhausting but now, I really like it.  Maybe it's because we actually have a comfortable space to host.  The other part is that it's interesting to see first hand how others deal with the wild toddler phase. 

We rang in the new year with fireworks that Leo deemed "awesome!"  We did our traditional burning of grievances in the fire.  It was a long list for me this year, I'm blaming it on all the emotions and stress.  We roasted steak dipped in rock salt (an old Logan tradition) and ate smores.  If you haven't ever eaten meat that way, boy are you missing out.

 

It was a good way to celebrate the new year.  There are some traditions around the world that say that what you are holding at the new year will indicate what the year will bring.  Some tuck extra money in the pocket in hopes of a fruitful year, others wear new clothing, or have good food in hand.  Me, I want good people around me in the coming year and so what better way to celebrate.  Good people, happy communities and a full life. 

I've learned a lot this year and can see how I've changed.  It was a year of stretching and expanding.  I hope the next year's grievance list is short!

As part of Heber's stocking, I got us tickets to go up to the top of the Washington Memorial.  It is one site that we have never seen but always wanted to.  As you know, we're big George Washington fans.  It was under renovation before and then we had an earthquake that shut it down for several years.  Well, the stars finally aligned and we were able to get in.   It's the tallest free standing rock memorial in the world.  We could see out in all directions for nearly 50 miles.  Just loved it. 

The view from the memorial

Leo checking out the view from the top.

What it's really like sometimes to sightsee with kids.  They really did awesome most of the time but hunger plus toddlers is no good.

One of the views.

   The rest of the visit was a blur.  Filled with traditional Lawrence fare (7 layer dip) and Ukranian food (Sasha is from Ukraine and New Years is a huge holiday in Ukraine, even bigger than Christmas).   It was so nice to visit with a good friend who's been there for me through so many things.  They are moving in the coming year and won't be as close anymore and I am going to miss seeing them several times a year. 

Well, here' s to a new year filled with good things.  Let's make 2015 the best ever!