Yearly Round-Up

It seems like yesterday that Kaemon just arrived, and in the meantime, Nelson has made his appearance into our daily adventures - sometimes it does feel like we have TWO babies and that's just a warm fuzzy glowy type feeling!

Generally, the move to the (wild) west of the country (as it's want to be known) has been more than pleasant. We're in a village with all the biggest Dutch cities within 1 hour drive. Thankfully, many old friends made the journey to visit us often and we have the best of both worlds- everyday adventures can be done by bike or on foot and a visit to Chinatown in the Hague is only 20 mins away by car. It goes without saying, I am happy with those stats!

Douwe completed the first year of his Dermatology residency, only four to go! It's been a tiring year, between fathering, man-of-the-house duties studying and working- doesn't leave much time over. These factors are not likely to change in the next four years unless someone has a tardis. Nevertheless, it's life and it's great. Being able to bike to work is something which significantly adds to quality of life!

Me, woman-of-the-house, in a sea of Y chromosomes- it's pretty good so far! I remember turning down a job in the beginning of the year because it was a full-time position or nothing. Now I'm working nearly every day of the week- but discovered the secret: I like what I do! A bit for a university and a bit as the label lady for Stuck on You. Master of my own domain :) By the way, December 19th will be the 6th year anniversary of my arrival in the land of Clogs. Mum and Dad came for much-appreciated babysitting duty when Nelson was born, and softened the bumpy road from 1 to 2 kids. We traipsed with the kids in tow to Malaysia and Australia in November for our essential periodic (over)dose of family, food, shopping and sun.

The boys: what is there to tell about two under-twos? Firstly, as many parents of young 'uns don't like to admit, we often lack that vital element, starting with the letter S.......yes, sleep. But if that is only price to pay, it's pretty cheap! Kaemon and Nelson are always in good health, developing well and thankfully nothing out of the ordinary. We are so lucky and blessed. Of course, for us, they are extraordinary. They both are remarkably mellow and easy-going, full of brightness and delight. Kaemon is getting to be useful- can follow instructions ('give the remote to papa please'), starting to sing along to songs he doesn't know, welcomed Nelson from the first day, never jealous, is obsessed with all things vehicular, couldn't care less about dogs, cats, ducks etc. On the other hand it seems that Nelson loves dogs! He laughs a lot, loves Kaemon, they hold hands and laugh, doesn't really like sleeping. They both love to eat (how could it be otherwise?). Silly to state the obvious, that we love them, but we do!!!!