Back in Amsterdam, life has eased into January. Although the skies are grey, I'm filled with anticipation for the coming months. 2011 is off to a great start. I loved ringing in the New Year with some of my favorite people and ending my trip West with old friends. They will be missed now that I am back in Europe, but I'm happy to have returned to my cozy life in Holland. Back into rising for early morning yoga, a cup of tea over the day, quiet evenings of reading and cooking, my seven-minute bicycle ride to my lovely office, and some interesting projects on the horizon.

One of these cute little owls now sits in my living room, reminding me of home, family and a dear friend.