New dawn, new day, new life

Almost six months since my last post, it might be time to get back into it again, right?

After all the things that happened last spring and summer; all the worries, the tumultuous first year back in China behind us, finally getting back into things and realizing that it is not so bad after all; getting a routine down, getting to know new friends – getting a life – there was simply no inspiration and will to write for a while. Not that nothing interesting happened of course, this is Beijing after all, and I’ve realized I can keep myself busy for days trying to remembering it all but I guess it will come back to me after time. And it might end up here as well, who knows?

Coming home after a three week break in Sweden (and a surprise express visit to London) has been great (not counting jet lag of course but there is nothing really to do about that). The kids are thrilled to be back at school, we are all filled with energy, though it is bitterly cold the skies has been remarkably clear, only one single thing has demanded workers in the house so far and not one “that’s China” encounter yet. And the kids have been so busy that I haven’t heard a single thing about “the best Christmas ever!” Though I’ve told them over and over again that we will NOT do this every year and most probably not again next Christmas I think they have what a REAL CHRISTMAS is like imprinted in their brains and soul forever. And yes, it was very nice. I realized how traditional I am and how I think it should be just so, now that we were there, you know. Tons of snow, a weeks’ build up to if/when/how Santa will come, darkness that I had forgotten about (dusk at 3pm, really?), cooking, baking, preparing, wrapping presents in secret, Christmas music, cocooning and candles everywhere.

Now, after eating and drinking constantly and excessively, there is most definitely a new dawn, a new day and a new life ahead. 2013 will be THE year. The year when we will exercise our bodies and brains, find balance and success and most of all have lots of fun.

Heading out to try kickboxing class for the first time, the pollution index shows 428 (hazardous) and I have a headache. Still, the weekend is up ahead, jet lag is finally over and the family will be complete again so life’s good.