Photos from March 2023

A black and white portrait of two individuals sharing a moment of laughter.
We are celebrating a few birthdays with our family in Belgium. Lots of laughter and happy smiles.

· Miscellaneous

A teenage boy with a basketball runs towards the basket, while players from the other team try to catch him. He started his layup before they could reach him.
I love that my sons have become passionate about basketball. Having passions is important for our well-being and drives our personal growth. It helps us develop a sense of identity and belonging, and it often drives us to work harder and push ourselves to improve. Passions also encourage us to dream big. They open up new opportunities and connect us with like-minded people. Having passions and being passionate is so important in life, be it in sports or any other area.

· Miscellaneous

An aerial view of a harbor with traditional fishing boats docked on jetties and majestic snow-covered mountains providing a stunning backdrop.
The picturesque harbor of Svolvær in Lofoten, Norway. Lofoten is situated above the Arctic Circle and known for its picturesque fjords and rugged landscapes.

· Miscellaneous

A small fishing boat docked on a jetty against the backdrop of a serene harbor.
Lofoten has a rich and storied fishing heritage. The fishing industry has its sustained local communities for generations.

· Miscellaneous

A old, snow-covered fishing boat docked in front of red buildings that serve as homes for fishermen.
We went deep-sea fishing on a traditional fishing boat similar to the one shown. Lofoten, Norway is known for its charming red buildings. The unique red color of the buildings is the result of using cod liver oil as paint, which provides protection against the harsh arctic climate.

· Miscellaneous

People with fishing rods on a boat, bundled up to stay warm in the cold arctic weather. Snow-covered mountains provide a beautiful backdrop.
Deep-sea fishing between the stunning fjords of Lofoten.

· Miscellaneous

In the foreground, a cheese grater and a measuring cup holding dried pasta. In the background, a pot with hot water and a pan with bolognese sauce.
Pasta night! Vanessa's homemade bolognese sauce, paired with authentic pasta imported from Italy, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and a bottle of red wine from a vineyard in Italy that we visited last summer.

· Miscellaneous

The living room is housed in an old wooden barn, featuring tall windows, a large central fireplace, and an abundance of decorations adorning the walls.
The great room of the Baby Barn in Londonderry, Vermont. It features high ceilings, tall windows, a grand fireplace, and an abundance of charming and eclectic decorations.

· Vermont

Sun rays stream through the window of an old barn, casting a pattern of light on the floor.
The sun is shining through the Baby Barn. Even though there is still snow on the ground, it's a sign that spring has arrived. There is something special about the first warm rays filtering through a window after winter.

· Vermont

A model plane with a 3-foot or 90-centimeter wingspan hangs from dark wooden beams on the ceiling. It's an antique biplane with double-stacked wings in bright yellow.
A model plane hanging from the ceiling. As a kid, I loved making model planes. The biggest one I ever made was also yellow. It brought back happy memories.

· Vermont

A woman sitting on a sofa reading a magazine.
Vanessa is reading 'Edible Vermont', a magazine focused on food and culinary topics exclusive to Vermont.

· Vermont

A weathered barn with steam coming out of its chimney.
In Vermont, it's the season for making delicious maple syrup. We visited a 'sugar house' where they boil down the sap from maple trees to make it. The smoke rising from the large chimney added to the charm of the scene. I wish you could smell this photo!

· Vermont

A backgammon board on a wooden table, accompanied by candles that cast a warm glow.
Strategic moves by candlelight.

· Vermont