In one week, Marcus and I will fly to Berlin to spend Christmas with his family in the East. The last time we had a German Christmas was in 2009, a visit that also took us to the Christmas markets (Weihnachtsmärkte) in Dresden. It's a magical city, but even more so with a mug of Glühwein in hand and sparkling lights all around. Besides visiting Dresden, we're looking forward to visiting family, walking through the snowy woods, and eating at our favorite restaurants in Berlin. I can't wait to step on the plane and head East for Christmas!
What are your plans for the holiday?
The tree is up, the ornaments are hung, the first presents are wrapped, and the lights are glowing. This will be our first Christmas in Amsterdam – in past years Marcus and I have always visited family in Oregon or Germany – and therefore our first Dutch Christmas tree! Although I don't think it was grown in the Netherlands, Bavaria more likely. It was strange to not cut the tree down ourselves, but we found a cute one at the flower shop around the corner. And probably the smallest tree I have ever had. It makes me so happy to wake up each morning and plug the lights in, casting a warm glow over the living room.
The beginning of December – possibly my favorite month of the year. Sparkling lights, songs of cheer, and wonder all around. Not to mention, a time for 
As in past years, my little blog goes a bit quiet around the holidays. Especially this year, which brought me home for the first time in two years. With the last Christmases spent in Berlin, it's wonderful to be home again.
In one week, I will be at the airport in Amsterdam holding my ticket to fly to Portland. The long flight is always worth it once I get a glimpse of the glorious Cascade Mountain Range out the plane window. I am especially looking forward to this little owl that is hanging on the Christmas tree waiting for my arrival, a gift from my older sister whom I can't wait to see. Counting down the days...
Weekend Links is a collection of the interesting bits and pieces that I’ve come across on the streets and online. The weekly post is my chance to share with you a few things that I have enjoyed, in a list compiled during the weekend. I hope you enjoy them as well.
After an eventful past week, I bring you Weekend Links, a collection of interesting bits and pieces. The weekly post is my chance to share with you a few things that I have enjoyed, in a list compiled during the weekend. I hope you enjoy them as well.
