Goodbyes, apple pies and butterflies.

I think I'm learning something. I know this is happening when my brain absolutely refuses to focus on important things, and comes up with absolutely anything to do other then the important task of grasping new concepts. It will, however opt to learn a seemingly 'easier' task, rather than surmount the insurmountable leap that is- whatever it is that is due. So, amidst my struggles with my brain, (sometimes I try to trick it into working for me)... I'm not really sure what else I've been doing. There have been several get togethers these last days in Edmonton, where many of my close friends are graduating and saying their last goodbyes before they start the rest of their lives in far away places. They're having dinner parties, where I can practice my skills with the tartes aux pommes and learn of other new and tasty recipes to try...

Then they pack up all their things, sell whatever they can, and the rest of us are still left pondering still at what we're supposed to be learning to get there... At least I got some more dishes and a new coffee table from one such on-goer. I am really excited for my butterfly oriented friend, specifically- to see him off on his post grad school adventures...

In other views, the streets are snowy, and my apartment windows have gotten quite fogged up lately, and ever more crowded. For one, we hosted a Sinterklaas party and managed to sardine-pack 16 friends into my little bachelor... Not only just crammed em all in, but fed them too! With french onion soup, and lasagna and some delicious salads. We even had some tasty mulled wine, and lots of wintery treats. Contributions were made by all. We all somehow found seats and enjoyed reading poetry to each other- surprised at what funny words and gifts were brought by Sinterklaas and his Black Piets. Special note goes out to the delicious shower scents of Old Spice, and gifts inspired by unforgettable ads- on a horse!

There's also been another reason my windows are foggier than usual, and it's probably exactly what you might think... And, well... It might have to do with a certain special species of metaphorical butterfly that dwells in tummies of those that are recently smitten, and maybe mostly the reason for the big dinner party and Dutch holidays in my home. Come February, my closets may be fuller, and home a bit more gezellig with a very handsome import form the Netherlands...

Until then, I'm flying around the world a bit once again, first to Ottawa home for Christmas, where my parents are hosting the big sha-bag, and enjoying time while making the rounds with good friends. And then you might find me my beloved Utrecht, or ringing in the New Year in the northern mountains of Czech Republic... More coming soon (including the outcomes of the aforementioned DIY projects;) ..)

Stay tuned....