I love Amsterdam. This is the second time I have had a long layover in Amsterdam; the first was on my way back from Jerusalem. It was Kings Day that day and I completely fell in love with the city. That love has only grown on this second little trip– would love to actually visit someday! So far my handful of hours have been fantastic. I love the practicality, I love the bikes, I love the little leaning buildings. I love the multicultural aspects. It is a port town and it still feels like it. I did Rick Steve’s audio tour (love RS!) and then hung out in a bookshop for a while, finally giving in to the desire to buy some books, a feeling I had repressed for the trip, knowing I would have to carry them with me for the rest of my trip, something that was now coming to an end. I only was in Amsterdam for about 2 hours– I could have stayed longer but I was nervous about making my flight. I got back with plenty of time. What a perfect end to an incredible and indulgent trip this has been!

I cannot tell you how excited I am to be settled in a place and have some semblance of routine, let alone how excited I am for school.