Creating traditions even far away from home

My sister and I and our three cousins on my mom’s side all grew up together. We are all around the same age (my cousin Andrew and I are literally nine months and three days apart).
I say this because we are close — basically like brothers and sisters. My cousin’s children refer to us as uncles and aunts.
So last year, when my cousin’s husband texted me completely out of the blue and asked if I wanted to go to a Wild game for his birthday, I didn’t hesitate, despite only a few days’ notice.
Zach, like the rest of us, grew up in Rhode Island, but after high school, decided to hop on a Greyhound bus and got his undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota.
Despite getting his law degree in Rhode Island, and never living in Minnesota again, he is an avid Wild fan.
Last year, the tradition started. He flew in the morning of the game, we met up in the afternoon, had drinks at the brewery, and then went to the game.
He decided then he would come every year for his birthday.
This year, Rhode Island was facing what are called Nor’easters, which cause devastating winds at times… the tough price of living 10 minutes from the Atlantic Ocean.
So instead of flying the day of the game, this year, he got to change his flight for free and flew in the night prior.
I took Monday off from work (well, worked on Sunday instead) and met up with him in the afternoon. With two kids under four at home, he decided to lay low and catch up on some peace and quiet.
Instead of the brewery, this time we explored various bars and restaurants in St. Paul.
After she got out of work, my wife met up with us. She grew up in the State of Hockey and is a much bigger fan than I am.
As you can imagine, Monday night early season games aren’t very well attended, so it was great being at the game without having to contend with big crowds.
It was a great game, went into overtime, and the Wild won in overtime. I had my Bruins hat on, but I appreciate a good game, always.
After the game, Zach and I went across the street for a night cap, and after, he made sure to tell me that he would be back next year.
A tradition has started, indeed, and a great one at that!