The Holidays – a breath of fresh air

I spent a week at home over the Holidays and it was exactly what I needed…to be wrapped in the loving and warm embrace of my family. I don’t think I was ever out of their presence unless I was sleeping. It was wonderful.

There is something that is so calming and peaceful about being with family, or at least with my family there is. We have a small family but we are a tight knit group and thoroughly enjoy each other’s company. Some of my best travel experiences have been with my family.

And with the new addition of August to our family only 2 years ago means that family time is even better as it revolves around the little guy which we all love so so much. It is kind of sickening how we all just watch his every little move..he is a such a ham and always keeps us laughing and smiling.I can’t imagine life before him nor do I want to.

So needless to say my most precious moments were the moments like these….

Any time August would run up to me to give me a hug or kiss it just completely made my day. He is such a sweet little boy and I must say I am so proud of my sister for many reasons but especially for what a wonderful mother she is. She and Scott have done such a beautiful job with this little guy. I know when I have children she will be such a source of knowledge and inspiration for me.

Of course it was so hard to say goodbye to them and come back to Amsterdam and to be honest I did not let myself think about it…at all or else I am not sure I would have been able to say goodbye. And I must admit those first 3-4 days back were pretty grueling. It was nonstop darkness and rain in AMS and all I could think about was the wonderful week I just had and the comforts of home.

But it is getting better and the homesickness is subsiding as I have some wonderful friends here and some exciting things to look forward to in the near future.