[Editor’s note: in an effort to get back into more frequent blogging, we are experimenting with some “daily life†posts. In theory, these will be short, wrap-up posts at the end of every other month. The posts will highlight some of the interesting (or not so interesting) parts of daily life in Luxembourg]
After our “triumph†at the Ronde van Vlaanderen the rest of January settled into the normal routine of living, with a few interesting sparkles. One of those was our first concert at the Philharmonie. Will has been assigned to write that post, so you should see it sometime in 2017.
The first weekend in February was the annual wine fest. Frankly, much hasn’t changed since 2011 – I visited most of the same houses, although this time with some new friends. I did try to restrain my exuberance, after two years of over-purchasing. I would say I was moderately successful. I’m now looking into wine tracking apps for my iPad, because the whole thing has really gotten out of hand. Clearly, an inventory system is needed to calm my accountant’s heart.
Yes, I have too much wine. But it’s so inexpensive and so good!
The second week in February we did something we’ve never done before – we took a trip across the pond to see some of our family in the middle of winter. As a celebration of a special birthday, the Bakker children met up with their parents for a few days’ holiday. It was nice to see everyone in a relaxed environment, outside of normal life. In addition, we were able to see some of my family at their winter home, which was an added bonus. It was great to relax for a few days.
The sunsets were tremendous.
Happily, in the middle of February the local paper declared the end of winter. I can’t say I disagree with them, because I am seeing some major signs of spring, including daffodils and itchy eyes. My allergies have really kicked into gear this last week, so I know that we are headed out of the winter season into the painful beauty of spring.
While I’m not as good as Will about finding pretty things for you to look at, I did come up with a few. For your enjoyment:
[Editor’s note: orchids are very popular in Luxembourg. We should probably do a post on that.
[Author’s note: I’m publishing this post all by myself (well, actually with Rachel’s help) because Will is in Washington DC, changing the world. I’ll see what I can do about getting him to post about that before the next U.S. Presidential election.]
To our friends and family in the Midwest, we wish you the end of winter as soon as possible!
It’s hard for me to explain Anita’s love of cycling. She genuinely enjoys the toughest inclines and the worst weather. She’s been doing sport cycling for all of a year, but she already looks at a windy, drizzling sky, and says, “I’m in the mood for a ride!”
