Life has taught me a lot this year. Just like last year. And the year before. And all the years before that year.

Moving from Maastricht to Cologne to London was one of the most exciting things I was able to experience in 2011. Especially the last move was the best one I could have done to myself. Although it felt a little bit like homecoming to this impulsive city, it was also the chance to start from another beginning. Without my parents, without any assurance that things will turn out to be good. But how they did: This time, everything seems to be good just the way it is. It just fits in every sense. I think this is something that just rarely happens, so I better appreciate it rather than complain about all the little things in between, that made me upset from time to time.

I’m blessed with the best parents, true friends and I got the chance to gain some new ones who enrich my life. While some times turned out to be harder than others, the most important thing should be to appreciate them. Easier said than done, I know.

If there was an award to dedicate to one person year after year, I knew to whom I would dedicate mine. Larissa is definitely my person of this year and one of the most amazing people I came across in my life so far.  I don’t want to miss any conversation with her. This was the first time after 8 years that I didn’t spend Christmas together with her and I just terribly missed it. She’s one of those kind of people you rarely get to know – self-confident, direct, honest, full of humour and above all: loyal. I love and miss you! 

I hope everyone had a good year and will even have a better 2012!