Milan at Christmas

It's true that you can never go back.  But almost seven months to the day of my arrival here in Europe found me ensconced back in my favourite hotel in Milan just as I'd been the very first night of this adventure.  Except this time, I was meeting my parents for three weeks of traveling over Christmas break.

Yes, they did get caught in the chaos at Heathrow - 36 hours worth of queues and minimal sleep, eventually making their way to Milan.  Now, I've been spoiled with holiday experiences: three years ago my dear friend Monika and I found ourselves in Strasbourg, France just after Christmas and there is nothing that can compare to the festive spirit exhibited there.  But Milan, in true Italian designer style, manages to do just fine.

Happy Hanukkah

Today, I was an honourary Jew.  A group of us gathered, feasted, lit the menorah with singing, and gained a little bit more insight into our classmates' lives. 

The Makeshift Menorah

There's an added richness to this holiday season with the addition of all of our traditions . . . and something more to ponder on the cold bike ride home through the Christmas lit streets of Bra.