Sunday, August 5, 2012

Sunday - August 5th - Preparation

Sunday, August 5th - we have arrived in Amsterdam and the first day has been a blast. The walk from the train station was great exercise as the bages were suited to a bike rather than humans. When we landed it was 65 and rain then the sun came out and the day became rather nice. Once we made it to the apartment, the view was relaxing and once we settled in naps were the order of the moment. Once we each took a nap and read about our route - the excitement grew anew - not that it ever left. We are in for an awesome experience and today was only the first day!

We took an afternoon walk to explore the City and see what was going on Sunday afternoon in Amsterdam. We came to the Dam Square and saw some great creative activities by individuals. I marvel how folks come out day after day to interact with people around them. It is great to see the City through new eyes and my friend, Hein, proved to be a great guide for us and gave us some of the history of the City we walking through. I learned new things and came to appreciate the depth of history when looking at building from the 13th century - oh the stories the bricks could tell.

The Memorial symbolized the Dutch freedom from Germany and every May 5th the country observes two minutes of silence in honor of the fallen soldiers. I experienced that earlier this year and it was very special.

Following a walk through the Dam Square, we headed to dinner of pot roast, potatoes annd greens - tasty and filling. We were joined at dinner by our fellow rider "JJ"" who will prove to be invaluable for his insights and experience gave us a sense of comfort. Just knowing what to expect made things easier. We watched soccer during dinner and told stories while getting to know each other.

While sleep was called for, we took a walk tonight and got some ice cream and mayo with fries - a wonderful ending to a great daddy. We leave in the morning and pick up the bikes in Haakssbergen - tomorrow night we will be in Nancy, France.

Keep checking back - we will have daily updates of the trip!!



5 comments:

  1. Looks like you're ready to go! Have fun on your first trip to Nancy

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  2. U guys are going to have a blast. Thanks for posting the experience. I guess the best years are ahead of us. How's that for positive thinking.

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  3. That was me who posted the last comment. Still figuring out technology

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  4. I agree that it is way cool that you are taking the time to post your trip. I hope Patterson got some sleep as he looked a little "whooped" in the above photo. You guys have an awesome ride and be safe.

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  5. Have a large time and enjoy all that Europe has to offer. Be safe and enjoy!

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