Above the clouds the sun was bright,
But on landing there was minimal sun light.

It was strange to arrive alone,
And not be able to use the phone.

I would call my family I had said,
But the battery in my phone was dead.

To use the public phone I elected,
To find out that phone was not connected.

Then as last resort,
I had their names called over the intercom at Schiphol airport.

That also they did not hear,
But then… saw me standing near.

They had brought a coat that was old,
But I was happy to wear it in this bitter cold.

Their home above the Dutch norm,
Was inviting, pleasant and warm.

Most of the afternoon was spent
Watching the discs of family history that Daphne had sent.

Dinner with more family was great,
The evening with wine and talk ended late.