new year

Thank you from “between the years”!

Between the years is a literal translation of the German phrase zwischen den Jahren which denotes the time between Christmas and the New Year´s Eve. I do understand how the phrase was coined and that a similar concept exists in other countries. But that doesn´t prevent my imagination from trying to create a concrete image of this rather unusual time “between the years”: an image ranging from spooky to splendid.

Joking aside, it is a particular time of the year indeed. I hope for all of you the days spent “between the years” are more on the splendid than on the spooky side 🙂

For me it has offered the calm and space for thoughts, reading and conversations long pushed back. This seems almost a luxury in the fast-paced day-to-day life and often stressful holiday seasons. Admittedly, I didn´t manage to fully avoid the holiday hecticness, but reached a new height in coming closer to achieving it.

2012 has been an intense and remarkable year for me in so many aspects. I was part of amazing experiences (both work-related and private), dared to do quite a few new things that had scared me and had wonderful people around who shared the last 365 days with me either virtually or in person (or both). And to them I am endlessly thankful for the inspiration, support and understanding.

I wish I could give you all a big hug and thank you in person, but since this is not possible please accept this humble hand-written note as a substitute (the in-person hug will follow sooner or later :-)).

I wish everyone a healthy, happy and inspiring 2013!