Holland is beautiful. It is a bit cold, as you can feel the chill in the air and there is no doubt that winter is right around the corner. We stepped off the bus in Haarlem, unsure as to what to expect. We did drive by some canals and some old buildings, but nothing quite prepared us for what we were about to see. We followed google maps through some old cobblestone alleyways toward our destination. The last alleyway dropped us into this large courtyard with a beautiful church and restaurants and old buildings. It was magnificent!
We looked up, across the courtyard, and right next to the church was where we were going to be living for the next week. Wow! We were going to be right in the middle of this little old place! We got the keys and toured our little home. The windows and view are incredible. Every hour and half hour you can hear the church bells ring. It’s just beautiful.
We are staying right above a Mexican restaurant, and decided to eat there last night. Yes, I know, we laughed too when we thought of eating at a Mexican restaurant when we’re in Holland, but it was good! I’m a sucker for good ceviche and margaritas–and both were pretty good–although I wouldn’t recommend drinking a margarita when you haven’t slept in 48 hours and when you have an empty stomach. I about fell asleep at the dinner table!
We decided we would let the kids sleep in and that it would be a good idea to take today slowly. Once the kids are up, we’ll spend the day exploring this little neighborhood, finding fun places to eat and window-shop. Over the course of the next few days we’ll spend time exploring Corrie Tenboom and Anne Frank’s homes along with checking out downtown Amsterdam.
The Nomad Family 