random bits #2

we finished up another great week here. i am really amazed at how well we can get around and that i almost always know where i am in this city. although, i really dont know many street names since they tend to be complex like Raadhuisstraat, Eerste Constantijn Huygensstraat, and Gills van Lendenberghstraat. not exactly numbered streets and avenues.

spring is absolutely here in the netherlands. it is consistently in the 50's every day, bulb flowers are blooming, tree buds are opening, and the cafe's have all put their tables and chairs outside. the rain continues but we have actually had several completely clear and sunny days.

we took the first sunny day opportunity to go to the Artis, the amsterdam zoo, only a 5 minute bike ride from our place, and got membership cards. they pay for themselves on the 3rd visit so it seemed well worth it. the zoo is nice, not fabulous, but has a variety of nice animals and playgrounds. it also has an aquarium and a planetarium included in the admission price. i looked up some reviews of the zoo on tripadvisor and some people HATE it because some of the animal enclosures are small - especially the large cat exhibits. i am surprised at how close you can get to some of the animals. they have a great large bird habitat and you can have large heron swoop over your head at regular intervals.

upon arrival here i didn't thing that dutch people were all that friendly or happy but i have come to change my mind. they may not be as loud, boisterous, or smiley as americans but i have come to find they are very welcoming and friendly. i met one of our neighbors today - she came out of her house when she saw me through the window putting my kids in the bakfiets. within 30 seconds of meeting her she offered to have my children come over any time to play with hers when i need to run out and run errands. solo grocery shopping, here i come! she invited me over for a drink tomorrow and a playdate for the kids. major score!

i have made some friends with women of the american women's club. everybody has just been so friendly and welcoming - it's just so nice to experience. it makes me think of how i treat others at home and how important it is to reach out to people who seem like they need a friend.

we are faring well during mike's extended trip back to the US. and even though i have been minorly sick off and on, we are still getting out daily and enjoying ourselves greatly.