This time last year, we were preparing for our first big travel adventure as a family. Three months of living, working, schooling, and above all, enjoying life in South Africa!

What an incredible time we had! From the very first day, the kids felt welcome at their new school. We met wonderful people, explored the breathtaking beauty the country has to offer, and embraced a sense of calm—both from the open spaces around us and from stepping away from the busier pace of life back home in the Netherlands.

But when we ask the kids what they enjoyed the most, their answer is always the same: the time and attention we had for each other. That connection, those shared moments, are truly priceless.

Returning to the Netherlands took some adjusting. The hustle and bustle, the obligations, and the longing for South Africa were real. But being back also had its joys—reuniting with family and friends and rediscovering the comfort of home. It took a while, but eventually, we settled back into our routine.

What the future holds? That remains uncertain. For now, we’re focused on the present—living in the here and now.