May 25th- Amsterdam, Netherlands

After last night we had to sleep in a little bit. When we finally got out the door with some "breakfast" in our bellies, we went to the Van Gogh museum. Imagine for one second being in the presence of such works. Monet, Van Gogh and his inspirations and companions along with others filled the museum and made it truly magical. I am pretty sure I got chills looking at some of the original paintings of these art innovators. Van Gogh's transition of color was better learned in a museum with his works in front of me than in any Art History class (which I never took, but I can only assume). I would high and low recommend seeing the museum and the exhibit they have on display at the time. Apparently Amsterdam has some serious technology when it comes to analyzing original art work, so you know/hope its authentic. Some of my favorites from the exhibit were Van Gogh's Courtesan: After Eisen, 1887, Field with Poppies 1888, and Boulevard de Clichy, 1887. I also enjoyed Monticelli's Still Life of Flowers, 1875, and all of the screenprinting and nude work done by Felix Vallotton 1865-1925. There was something so honest in his depiction of the human body, even when it was satirical, there were the truths that nobody wants to admit. 

MUST. EAT. On to the pancake corner for lunch that we can only speculate is Dutch. The pancakes were crepe like and tastey but, holy moly, were they pricey. Amsterdam is a VERY expensive city, so beware. I paid 18 Euros for my meal which is like $25+. 

Finally we get to rent our bikes!! I am going to be honest here... my anxiety level was through the roof. There were so many bikes, so few street signs and traffic regulations, and therefore so much anxiety. I didn't want to be left from the pack; I didn't want to wreck my bike; I didn't want to be hit by a car since we were basically in the street; I didn't want to get honked at by another bike or car. The only thing I did want was to get off my feet and do as the Amsterdamers do- ride the gosh dang bike Jane. Katelyn almost got killed in traffic; Cybil and Michelle wrecked; no one got separated and I really had a (mostly) smooth ride. We took the bike to Vondelpark and rode through there. It was beautiful with the various art work, fountains and rose gardens. I felt like a local. There was music and picnics, football (European of course) and frisbee, dogs and blankets. It was just really nice to get to see all the young people and families and older people too I guess out enjoying a lazy Sunday. We layed in the grass for a while and just enjoyed a break in the fresh air contemplating the trip we are on. I was at least. What an opportunity to travel and see the world. I really am so lucky to be able to see something in my future and work to accomplish it until I do. Very few people get the chance to travel for 7 weeks or at all for that matter. Even though I don't have a job awaiting my return, I will be coming home with something to look forward to- planning my next trip! 

There are better pictures on my camera but I suppose this shows my sentiment for the bike riding adventure at the beginning. After leaving the park we went to Jordaan, a old neighborhood full of restaurants and bars, unique shops and young families and singles. It may be considered a tad more upscale as well and would have probably been nice for a good dinner, but for us it was a quite, simple bike ride. I think I would compare it to Williamsburg, New York. 

The night ended rather young until we went out for a show. Shared some good laughs and some wild memories and I will leave it at that. What happens in Amsterdam stays in Amsterdam. Unless you also got a tattoo....