A place for everything and everything in its place

We had an absolutely wonderful time in the States, but there is just something I love about having all of my stuff in one place. Having my own place with my own things, systems and patterns makes me so happy. It amazes me when I think of how different my emotions are today versus just three years ago when I landed in Brussels for the first time. However, I also think that it took me a full year before I felt this level of comfort upon returning to Brussels.

Our families were beyond generous with gifts, so we came home with some very full luggage. We can't wait to wear all our new clothes and figure out our new toys. I went out for a bike ride today and as I was admiring all the architecture and smiling at my familiar surroundings I felt like a dog just sniffing around the neighborhood and wagging my tail I was so happy to be back.

I loved every bit of food I ate in the States (Chick-fil-A, Sensational Subs, Mexican etc.) but I couldn't help but laugh when I looked at what I brought home from the grocery store today -- lentils, red peppers, bananas, cauliflower, chickpeas (for hummus) and brussels sprouts. The food I miss from the USA is great, but definitely not healthy. I am excited to get back in my kitchen and cook some healthy things. Both Kyle and I always gain a few pounds when we are home visiting, so I am also looking forward to shedding some of that weight.

And to start the New Year off right, I have finished almost every little project that has been nagging me for the last few months -- my laundry pile is empty, all the ironing is done, and I have sewed buttons back on all the things that needed them. Now if only I can keep up this pace for the next 365 days.

Click here for photos.

Changing History

We are scaring ourselves. Never before in the history of our lives have we been so organized. It is 10:30pm the night before we fly to the States and both our bags are completely packed and zipped, the fridge is empty of food that could spoil, the garbage has been taken out, there are no dishes in the sink, and the kitchen counters are clean; homemade Christmas gifts have been delivered to people in Brussels, our mail is arranged to be picked up and the plants to be watered; I don't have one e-mail left to send and no project that I am frantically trying to finish at 1am. Although I have had a constant to-do list in my mind for the past two weeks, I feel like all of that stressing has finally paid off. Is this what Martha Stewart feels like?

In the Eye of the Traveller

I remember when I was working 8-5pm in a cube and friends were sending me e-mails from their travels through Australia. I really felt like I was about to cry at my desk as I was reading them because I was so jealous. Yesterday I was telling my French teacher that I was going to miss yet a few more classes because I was headed back to the States for Christmas. I was kind of embarrassed to tell her this because I felt so lucky to be traveling so much and here she was having to stay in Belgium all the time. This was the conversation:

Teacher: And you were just in Germany last week, right?
Emily: Well, actually I was in Germany for two days and then flew to London for three days because my husband was there for work.
Teacher: Wow.
Emily: Yes, I feel kind of bad because my husband ends up having to work in every city, but it is great for me because I just get to tour around and sight see.
Teacher: So you are by yourself all day? Your husband can't tour with you?
Emily: Well, he has to work alot, so it is usually just me touring around by myself all day. I always bring a book to read at lunch and I stay busy going to museums and just seeing everything.
Teacher: And you like this?

I had never even thought that some people might think I have it really rough having to tour around by myself all day. Personally, I love being by myself -- I go where I want to, when I want to and don't have to worry about anyone else. However, I often forget that many people might see it as lonely or scary. I won't feel quite so bad talking about all my travels now knowing that some people might actually be thinking they are so glad they don't have my life!

Santa's Workshop

I've been busy making lots and lots of caramel sauce for Christmas gifts. Growing up, I have memories of my mom making bite size caramels at Christmas time and then my sister and I sitting at the kitchen table wrapping them in wax paper for what seemed like hours and hours. In reality, I am sure we worked for about 15 minutes and my mom had to do the rest. Since I don't have free child labor around here, I have decided to take the easier route and just make the caramel sauce. I wrap it in a clear bag with a green granny smith apple and red ribbon (my mom did always say presentation is everything). I think this is going to be my signature Christmas gift for years to come. Funny enough, even though it tastes great, I have made it for so long (and eaten so much growing up) that my stomach kind of turns at the thought of it. What a great diet!