Trips always reenergize me. A trip to start the new year is a catalyst for even more introspection and goal-setting. And a trip back home for the first time, at the beginning of the year, was the ultimate therapy for this winterized soul.

Even though I was sick for most of my trip, and not feeling like myself, I still left full of love from my friends, hope for the future, and reassurance that winter doesn’t last forever.

I saw everyone who I absolutely wanted to see. Some were coincidental run-ins (although I’m not sure how coincidental some were if the run-in was at Crossfit). Some were planned. Some were friends who took time out of their busy schedules to come from other cities in California.

Friends lent me their cars, their couches to sleep on, treated me to dinner and drinks, coordinated get-togethers at their houses, drove me around town. All happy to play it by ear with my work schedule (and sick schedule).

I don’t know how I got so blessed in life.

Don’t get me wrong; the breathtaking sunsets and warm, sunny Santa Monica days can turn the gloomiest attitude positive.

But friends. Friends are what really matters.

So, on my first night back in Germany, I’m sad to leave my friends. But I’m also ready to be back. I missed my new friends over here. I need to catch up on all the gossip I missed! And I’m full of new life and plans and dreams to help me take on the doldrums of winter.

My heart is overflowing with gratitude and love for my friends–around the world.