We are almost halfway February, incredible how time is passing by so quickly. It’s already a year ago that we arrived at the emergency department of the hospital in Alkmaar, and looked at how our situation is today. What all can happen in one year, it’s crazy. 

Next week Christophe will have his first official conversation with his employer regarding his re-integration in the company. It’s a miracle that he's able to work again, if you know that only 2% of the patients recover in a similar condition as him, and the majority of the 2% is not able to return to their old job. Needless to say again, it’s a miracle. He will start with 10 hours per week at his own pace, and of course from home. He’s so happy to return to work and to be part of the ‘normal’ life (whatever you might call normal these days).

In two weeks we are heading again to the hospital for the quarterly check-up. Christophe will have his scan and a week later we will have the results. Despite our confidence that the tumor hasn’t grown, you never know. You can’t feel it, and it’s the only way to monitor the situation in his head. And if the results are good, we don’t need to go to hospital. But it remains a moment of insecurity… 

My book; yes it’s almost there! Please be patient. My publisher has emailed me the ‘book’ version and I’m now reviewing the final version. I’m excited and to be honest also a little scared. I’m sharing my entire life, my emotions, my thoughts, experiences, my journey, it’s an open book (nice word spelling). Every part of my personal life is expressed in the book,  and now the moment of publishing is getting closer, I am a bit worried. I’m not sure how people will react? According to my publisher this is totally normal and therefore she put a deadline. Still, it’s a big step out of my comfort zone.

On a professional level, I don’t have enough in 24 hours. Which is a good sign! I’m proud to say that together with my team we have signed a contract with the Singapore Convention Bureau. For those who are not working in the industry, it’s a huge achievement! And last week Lisa, our intern, started. She’s going to do research within my company, which is great. I’m happy to provide a place for an intern in the meetings & events industry, because for students in our industry it’s tough.

Next I’m coaching two lovely ladies in the industry, and I’m part of 3 Advisory Boards, 1 from the UK, 1 from Brazil and 1 from the US, it can’t be more international. It’s a great way to learn from other companies, and from other advisors, and to be part of growing initiatives and passionate entrepreneurs. 

So yes, never a dull moment in my life. If I look back to a year ago, I would never have thought that Christophe and I would be here together today, and that he would be able to go back to work. And that despite all the challenges also so many opportunities came along my path. 

And what might happen in a few weeks? I have no idea. At least I have set my goals for the end of the year, but a lot can happen in one year's time!

And yes, I still miss travelling and to be honest I don’t think I will take a plane before September. But first I will hug my best friend because that’s what I missed the most! 

Hang in there! Stay safe.