Utrecht

a really special day. whilst calling Blake, I caught the train to Utrecht this morning, where I met Emma who I have not seen since hugging goodbye at Lewes train station nearly three years ago. her company is still as wonderful and it felt as though despite time and distance, nothing has changed between us. we hugged and laughed and updated one another on our lives as we wandered the lanes of the beautiful city. 

after treating me to a hot chocolate by one of the canals, Emma led the way back to the station where we met Joel, who arrived in the Netherlands yesterday and is staying with a friend in Delft. as a group we explored the city lanes before stopping for lunch at a bagel spot in the shade.

snacking on papernoten, we stopped to rest in a park coloured by the changing leaves of trees waiting for winter. a lot of laughter as we spoke and remembered jokes and stories from the life we used to share.

after her afternoon class, Fieke caught the train in to the city. four of us in the one spot - the biggest reunion of room 53 since our departure. buying vegetables from the supermarket, we commuted back to Emma’s apartment where I prepared my ratatouille pasta for dinner, which we enjoyed with seasoned vegetables and bread. Emma spoiled us with wine and tea.

a gorgeous evening. we laughed and hugged and treasured being together again. my heart is full to be with friends I’ve missed so much.<<