II: Amsterdam

Hello!

I arrived home from great Amsterdam trip late last evening and unfortunately had to work bright and early this morning! Good morning, kitchen duties! I was helping chop vegetables by 9:30 am this morning and now have finally gotten a chance to sit down, and err...shower. Much needed.

Amsterdam was unlike any other place I've ever been, and even after four days I'm still not sure I completely understood what was going on there. Kristin, myself, and Tom packed as much as we could into our short time there, and left with the main objectives of visiting the Anne Frank house, Van Gogh museum, Canal Cruise, Wax museum, and keeping some time for fun and spontaneity checked off the list. The city was bustling and a melting pot of many different types of folk, and it was pleasant knowing we weren't the only ones who weren't quite sure what to make of our surroundings.

We walked (a little frightened, if I may add) through the Red Light District the first night of our trip. You aren't allowed to take photos (which I think everyone understands why), but considering we were all feeling thoroughly awkward and sped walked down the street I don't think stopping for a photo opp. crossed any of our minds...

On the second day, we navigated our way to the Anne Frank Huis, which before visiting I suppose I didn't even realize was located in Holland. It was as expected a more solemn activity on our trip, and really quite fascinating. It was strange to think while walking around the rooms of the Franks and Van Pels families living there in the dark for two years. No photos allowed in this place either, but Kristin and I decided we wouldn't feel right treating it as such a tourist sight. In a strange way you could feel a sense of spirits in there.

Later on in the day after our journey back to the WWII era and a few blocks down the street, the three of us found a glorious little cafe called "Bagels and Beans" where we succeeded in relaxing with lovely cups of coffee and gourmet bagels at least a few times. The second morning for breakfast I discovered the magic of a bagel with maple syrup, brown sugar, and banana slices....mmm..