can't believe it's almost June already! Time sure does fly - especially when things get busy. Between my husband's insane work schedule in April (working for 24 hours straight & other ridiculousness) and being in California for most of May, I've been neglectful. I must admit it's good to be settled back at home - with a husband who swears work will resume during regular hours of the day and a new computer that will let me get so much more done.

Spending almost three weeks visiting what used to be home was eye-opening. All the things we had known we disliked were only magnified, making us realize how much we appreciate what we have here in Germany. As for the things we love - namely family, friends and food - it was especially difficult to know we will not get to enjoy this again for some time. While the divide between us and these things grows with time, distance and cultural differences, I hope we get the opportunity to catch up on trips back as if no time has passed at all (Mexican food, that includes you!). 

All the running around we did meant we didn't take nearly as many pictures as I would have liked, but I'm more grateful for the time than of any photos. What we did capture was great friends and great places we will remember until we can visit again next year.

Mother's Day brunch at Lisa's Tea Treasures. Love how mom matches the decor.

Posing like tourists in front of SF cable car (sure miss that city's shopping!)

Go Giants! (my hair does not miss that salty, bay wind - '80s hair, anyone?!)

Enjoying best gourmet ice cream in the city at Humphry Slocombe

Lunch with the Benetton girls (note the multiculturalness) overlooking the bay

First stop in Napa - wine tasting at the beautiful Carneros

Enjoying a drink at the Bigfoot Lodge

Afternoon at Capitola beach ...

... catching up with an old friend I haven't seen in nearly a decade (and her adorable daughter)

While it's tough to miss all these things, we know how lucky we are to live in Europe and have all the opportunities here for travel and life experience. With summer being busy season for my husband, it looks like our next trip won't be till the fall; we're hoping Spain and Oktoberfest in September (happy birthday to me!). I'm hoping I can persuade him to take at least one long weekend before then and head to Prague or Amsterdam during the nice summer weather. Plus, there's still so much to see here in Germany - I can't wait!

                                     

*Daily Drop Cap by Jessica Hische