It was the day after Thanksgiving. My cousin Lars and I went to see Texas play Texas Tech for maybe the last time... and in the middle of the very loud and raucous pre-game mayhem, I stumbled across a graffiti artist making cool Xmas art. How could I not ask why?

This is a new one for me. I want to start by giving you a heads-up that part of my conversation with Vanessa refers to and is about a highly sensitive subject that could be triggering to some. Her nonprofit provides support for people who have suffered specific kinds of complex trauma, including sexual abuse and sex and human trafficking. As you might imagine, she is an incredible person, doing good in the world, and I am so glad she landed in Austin!

Think of a sport... and then a few more, and then think of a sport that is very Austin. I met Jack who plays professionally and definitely surprised me!

Went to see the Skegss at the Scoot Inn. Had never heard of them, but my cousin recommended them, so we went for it! I noticed a small group of folks chatting near the deck (where the beer is) and got a good vibe they'd be up for talking with me. It turns out I was not the first person to have this idea!

Over ten years ago, I kicked off an unexpected friendship with a random conversation in a classroom with two people I'd never met. Now we are long-time good friends, and I thought a random conversation over gaming and beer would be... nice!

I went to Emerald Tavern for my first game of D&D in forever. My buddy Tony and I slew the goblins along with a rowdy, fun bunch of new friends... and I learned apparently everyone is from Indiana or Chicago??