Yes, it's really a new post! I can barely believe it myself. The last two months have flown by with many good intentions to write in this cherished space, but all my writing energy ended up going towards other projects. But here I am, is anyone still out there?
We're now in the midst of November and on the brink of the holiday season. The weather in Portland was incredible all October, endless sunshine and warmth with a hint of chill in the air. All this led to extra crunchy leaves, pleasant bike rides, hiking every weekend, and lots of gatherings with friends.
At the end of the month, we flew to Mexico for the wedding of two friends from Amsterdam. It was a perfect dose of sunshine, sea, lounging by the pool, and reuniting with friends from the Netherlands. After the wedding, we headed north on the Baja Peninsula to spend the second week of our holiday in La Ventana, La Paz, and finally hiking in the Sierra de la Laguna. Unfortunately, the trip was cut short when Marcus sprained his knee windsurfing and we had to head home early. Bummer! But we're happy for the time we had and to be home again.
Anticipating: My first Thanksgiving with my family since 2004! Marcus' best friend from Berlin will be visiting us over the long weekend. He actually lives in New York now. And lived in Amsterdam while we were there. They like to follow each other around the world, I think.
Studying: I'm currently taking the NovoEd course from the Stanford School of Business The Finance of Retirement and Pension. It's completely outside my normal area of interests, but it has been really interesting to learn about life annuities, coupon bonds, and how to make smart choices to ensure a financial future. Important stuff!
Reading: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. The first book of a trilogy that was quite popular in 2006. I'm a little late to the party, but am enjoying it so far.
Watching: You guys. This documentary about ducks is so great. Not only because they call it a DUCKumentary, but also because it takes a unique look at one of nature's most familiar creatures.
What have you enjoyed this autumn? Any reading tips for the coming winter? It's good to be back, friends.
Images from my Instagram (clockwise): leaves covering Director Park, banana pancakes for breakfast, pappardelle with chanterelle mushrooms foraged in the Willamette Valley, a waterfall found while hiking in the Tillamook State Forest.
On the last day of our 
The last of the autumn leaves are clinging to the branches of the trees here in Amsterdam. The temperatures have dropped and my morning bicycle commute now requires a thick scarf and gloves. It's pitch dark outside when I make my evening ride home and I can feel the edge of winter peeking around the corner.
Looking forward to a sunny autumn weekend and brunch for three.
Cycling is not simply a summer affair in Amsterdam. Yet when I see a week of rain ahead on the weather forecast, it takes extra motivation to hop on my two wheels in the morning. Having my rain gear ready (and always with me) makes it easier to bear a drizzle or downpour. My kit includes rain pants, a waterproof jacket, a hat with a brim to keep the water out of my eyes, and always leather or rubber shoes. Suffering through a spot of rain is worth the freedom and pleasure that comes with riding. Here, are a few tips for gear that make cycling in the autumn a breeze.
My bike ride to work takes me through one of the most picturesque parks in Amsterdam, where I get a daily glimpse of autumn deepening its hold on the city. Cycling past the trees every day gives me the time to observe the diminishing numbers of leaves and their darkening shades. For my part, I'm on a serious apple cider kick. It's my favorite drink to feel cozy especially once I've come in from a ride (image from 
Feeling an itch to get away for a weekend. The only remaining question: where to go? Floating through my head are ideas of France, Italy, Spain, and Ireland. Paris is only a train ride away, the other locations probably require a short flight. Just a chance to walk over some unfamiliar cobblestones and breathe in the air of another city.
It's quickly turning to autumn here in Amsterdam. Yesterday evening I biked through the rain to a colleague's wedding, wondering if my dress and hair would survive. They did and it was a lovely night, which has led to a slow morning. But now the sun is peeking through my window and it's time to throw on a scarf and go for a walk.
Und natürlich studieren wir über Oktoberfest. Hier sind einige schöne Wiesenplakat.
Riding around this morning, I spotted an 'Amsterdam houdt van fietsan' (Amsterdam loves bikes) poster. Not that Amsterdammers need a campaign to convince them. As autumn begins, I hope this is the year I fulfill my dream: to catch a falling leaf while riding my bike. I'll stay busy with that until the film Riding Bikes with the Dutch by 
At the beginning of summer, I