This one will not be as detailed and will be picture-less, but still interesting, I hope!
After my last post, I went to spend the weekend with my friend Renata. I first went to the beach on Friday, which was very nice but TOO cold to swim, and then I got on a train to Amersfort, where she lives. Her host Mom picked me up form the train station and we had tacos for dinner, took her kids for a walk to see the horses and then we went down town to Amersort to see if anything is going on there. Nothing is, if you were wondering. We had a few beers and then headed home.
The next morning we woke up to no one in her house, which was nice, but then we realized there was no way to get from her house t the train station without a ride. We ended up asking her neighbors, a group of retired Nuns that live together, and one drove us to the train station. From there we went to Hilversum, which is a really cute, rich, suburb of Amsterdam. We went shopping and had lunch, and then went to her friends house, Justina (pronounced UU-stin-a). She didn't speak English, but another Justina there did and we hung out, drank wine and had sum fun. They even straitened my hair! Then, i balanced on the back of Justina (with no English)'s bike and we went into the city center to go to some bars! It was really fun!
Sunday I just relaxed at home until the family came back. Then, Monday started the daily grime of work again. They were all tired but it was a fun day, nonetheless. I took them to Tun Fun, a dutch Discovery Zone, which was fun and they bounced and climbed their hearts out. It was different then I expected, because it had a underground theme and lots of graffiti art and street signs hung everywhere. I really liked it.
Then, On Tuesday the Mom and I took them to the local market to play in the fountain, get fried fish for lunch and do some shopping. They were all very excited to get new crocs and some hair bands--even the baby wanted a head band! With pink hearts on it! It was a good day, but again filled with tired children. Then, at Night I went into town and met up with a couchsurfer from the US just stopping in Amsterdam. We went to some cafes, walked around and then tried to go to this cool bar, but ti was closed for the summer. We were really bummed. We had a really great time though!
Then, on Wednesday I wanted to take the kids to the Zoo. We were on the tram going on our way and all of a sudden we stopped. After about 5 minutes the kids got antsy and I asked what the problem was. The Tram in front of us hit a car (or got an owie, thats what I told Marisa) and it might not move for a long time. I decided to jump off the tram and take them to the park instead, because it was so nice out. It was a great day and they went into the fountain because it was so hot out! Then, at night, I met my friend Mieke and we saw the movie Greenburg. We wanted to see Shrek, but it wasn't playing for some reason. It was good, but had no story and we were both very confused at the end. We went for tea in a coffee house after, had some delicious ice cream and went home. IT was a great night.
Then, on Thursday I decided not to take the kids out because the weather was playing games and I was unsure if we would get poured on if we left for the Library. We did go to the Supermarket though, and each of the girls had their own baby in a stroller, a list and was able to pick out the right things. They felt just like a Mama. It was adorable. Then, at night I went to this awesome bar, Sound Garden, with another Au pair. Her name is Lena and she is really fun. She is from Germany and I would really like to see her again!
Friday, yesterday, was a day I took to get better. I am beginning to feel sick and leaving today (AHH) for Spain! Then, at night I went to the van Gogh museum with a group of expat women. It was really great, because they had live music and a bar set up in the lobby and the museum is great, but not as extensive as I remember. Then we went to a cool bar downtown for a few drinks before heading home.
Now, its Saturday and I am packing, eating and preparing for my trip. Madrid tonight for 4 days, then Valencia, Barcelona and Zaragoza! I am so excited! Send me an email or something with your address if you want a post card! I might not have internet every day, but when I do I will post, sans pictures and then do a big post at the end!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Lots of fun and a Mini-Vacation!
Hello Everyone,
So I left off with the 15th--A Thursday. That was my last day of work for over a week, so we went out with a bang--I took the kids to Vondelpark. Vondelpark is like the Amsterdam form of Central park. Its HUGE and has lots to offer--two play grounds and a few places to feed the ducks all within a 5 minute walk of the tram which is perfect for the kids. The weather was very mysterious, one minute sunny the next overcast but I decided to keep them outside and not bring them to the Dutch Discovery Zone. We had fun in one playground all morning, then we had a picnic lunch by teh ducks and fed them our crusts (pictured below).
Then, we made our way to the next playground. Nigel is beginning to love the sound of his voice and experiment with different noises and sounds--fine when you are outside but not so fine when you are in the tiny kitchen and trying to hear the girls request what they want for lunch, but either way still adorable. Here he is screaming to the high heavens at the playground.
It was a great day and we avoided all the rain--because it never did rain!
Then, on Friday I had the day off! Wooohooo! First stop, Rijksmuseum, their country's collection.
It is quite small at the moment, only 12 rooms, because of construction and I was only really interested by the Rembrants and Miros, late 16th and 17th century paintings are definitely not my favorite, but it was a good time and free because of the museum pass Jane got for me! I also had a walk through the canals, which is so beautiful! 
Then, I met up with a new friend, Mieke, who took me to a great bar in an old factory called the pacific. It was great fun and she also showed me around the city and pointed out the places for some great markets. I am going to have to check them out soon. Then, I came home for a late dinner and to say goodnight to the kids because I would not begin seeing them for a week.
Saturday, I met up with my friend Serena and we went to a street music festival. It was really cool but had a very low attendance an it prompted us and her friends to venture over to the Suriname festival. I would've liked to stay and listen to the music, though. Even if others weren't enjoying it, I sure was! Here is a picture of the opening act--a drum core!
Suriname is a country I have heard of before, but only in text books and i have never experienced any of the culture. There is a big Suriname population in Amsterdam and it was a fun, but also not very many people were there. I did get to try a new cuisine of food and had a fried bread snack that was delicious. It was a little awkward, though, because her friends and Serena only spoke in dutch and hardly included me--because I didn't understand what they were saying. Then, I came home and was exhausted. I had a yummy dinner and then went for a bike ride around my neighborhood, which has some beautiful sections. Here is right near the canal, and you can see the bed and breakfast I might send my parents to, as well as the famous Sloten windmill. 
It was a great, but tiring Saturday!
Sunday I met up with my friend, Alexa and we walked all around the city. It was really fun and we had a great time seeing the city and chatting with each other. We went to eh cafe Mieke took me too, a great buffet type place for lunch and hung out in Vondelpark. All in all, a terrific day!
Then, on Monday I left for my adventure to Texel. The town I stayed in was called Den Burg. It was very quaint and a great place for home base. This is a picture of one of the cute, curing streets.
It was so beautiful. Then, I left for the coast. On the way I had beautiful views of the countryside, like this one: 
One of the oldest churches in Texel, in the town of Den Hoorn, is visible through the farm lands of the island. Then, I rode through the forest, dunes and finally made it to the beach. It was hot out so the breeze and water at my toes was very appreciated. Then, for dinner, I feasted on Kibbeling, a type of friend fish that is very common here. It was delicious.
I also had the same thing for lunch, from a vendor at a great town market in Den Burg. It was a great first day on the island.
Then, on Tuesday I went to the town of De Koog, which was just as cute, but much busier and not as old fashioned as Den Burg. On the way I went for a hike through the dunes, which were so beautiful and hung out on the beach for a little bit. The duens were gorgeous and very relaxing place to walk around in.
Then, the beach was much quieter than the one the day before, and I watched a fishing boat pass. Here is it, being attacked by all the seagulls looking for lunch.
. Then, I went through the middle of the island on my way home and found myself in the woods again. Here is the path I am riding on going through the canopy of trees. I really enjoined all the sights the island had to offer. 
Then, I rode by my first flower farm. If this is what the entire country looks like in April, I will be so happy. Just this small section is beautiful!
Then, on Wednesday I ventured all the way tip the northern tip of the island--15km from Den Burg. Here is a red lighthouse which is so cute and looked great on the landscape.
I just relaxed on the beach for a while and I had a great lunch at a cafe right on the beach. It was so nice and a great way to start off my day. On all the beaches, you can rent these small sheds that people use to store there things, get out from the sun and hang out in front of. If you ask me, its a little weird, but its interesting and they look super cute all lined up on the beach.
Then, I went to the town closest to this beach, De Cocksdorp. It was nice, but then after I left I found some other cute towns along the way that were much cuter. Here is one,
I stopped in three towns and they were all adorable and I had some great views along the way. One of the best had a famous dutch windmill in it.
It was a great, biking filled day! I loved my trip there! it was so relaxing!
Today, Thursday, was my last day on the island. I went to the town Oudenschild, only 3km from my hostel, for a few hours before heading home. It was so cute and had a harbor filled of ships. It was very quaint and I really liked it.
Now I am home and going out to meet some friends tonight, a day trip with one tomorrow and spending the night at another friend's house. Then, work on Monday but just for a week before Spain! YAY! Love you all! Keep reading!
So I left off with the 15th--A Thursday. That was my last day of work for over a week, so we went out with a bang--I took the kids to Vondelpark. Vondelpark is like the Amsterdam form of Central park. Its HUGE and has lots to offer--two play grounds and a few places to feed the ducks all within a 5 minute walk of the tram which is perfect for the kids. The weather was very mysterious, one minute sunny the next overcast but I decided to keep them outside and not bring them to the Dutch Discovery Zone. We had fun in one playground all morning, then we had a picnic lunch by teh ducks and fed them our crusts (pictured below).
Then, we made our way to the next playground. Nigel is beginning to love the sound of his voice and experiment with different noises and sounds--fine when you are outside but not so fine when you are in the tiny kitchen and trying to hear the girls request what they want for lunch, but either way still adorable. Here he is screaming to the high heavens at the playground.
It was a great day and we avoided all the rain--because it never did rain!
Then, on Friday I had the day off! Wooohooo! First stop, Rijksmuseum, their country's collection.
It is quite small at the moment, only 12 rooms, because of construction and I was only really interested by the Rembrants and Miros, late 16th and 17th century paintings are definitely not my favorite, but it was a good time and free because of the museum pass Jane got for me! I also had a walk through the canals, which is so beautiful! 
Then, I met up with a new friend, Mieke, who took me to a great bar in an old factory called the pacific. It was great fun and she also showed me around the city and pointed out the places for some great markets. I am going to have to check them out soon. Then, I came home for a late dinner and to say goodnight to the kids because I would not begin seeing them for a week. Saturday, I met up with my friend Serena and we went to a street music festival. It was really cool but had a very low attendance an it prompted us and her friends to venture over to the Suriname festival. I would've liked to stay and listen to the music, though. Even if others weren't enjoying it, I sure was! Here is a picture of the opening act--a drum core!
Suriname is a country I have heard of before, but only in text books and i have never experienced any of the culture. There is a big Suriname population in Amsterdam and it was a fun, but also not very many people were there. I did get to try a new cuisine of food and had a fried bread snack that was delicious. It was a little awkward, though, because her friends and Serena only spoke in dutch and hardly included me--because I didn't understand what they were saying. Then, I came home and was exhausted. I had a yummy dinner and then went for a bike ride around my neighborhood, which has some beautiful sections. Here is right near the canal, and you can see the bed and breakfast I might send my parents to, as well as the famous Sloten windmill. 
It was a great, but tiring Saturday!Sunday I met up with my friend, Alexa and we walked all around the city. It was really fun and we had a great time seeing the city and chatting with each other. We went to eh cafe Mieke took me too, a great buffet type place for lunch and hung out in Vondelpark. All in all, a terrific day!
Then, on Monday I left for my adventure to Texel. The town I stayed in was called Den Burg. It was very quaint and a great place for home base. This is a picture of one of the cute, curing streets.
It was so beautiful. Then, I left for the coast. On the way I had beautiful views of the countryside, like this one: 
One of the oldest churches in Texel, in the town of Den Hoorn, is visible through the farm lands of the island. Then, I rode through the forest, dunes and finally made it to the beach. It was hot out so the breeze and water at my toes was very appreciated. Then, for dinner, I feasted on Kibbeling, a type of friend fish that is very common here. It was delicious.
I also had the same thing for lunch, from a vendor at a great town market in Den Burg. It was a great first day on the island.Then, on Tuesday I went to the town of De Koog, which was just as cute, but much busier and not as old fashioned as Den Burg. On the way I went for a hike through the dunes, which were so beautiful and hung out on the beach for a little bit. The duens were gorgeous and very relaxing place to walk around in.
Then, the beach was much quieter than the one the day before, and I watched a fishing boat pass. Here is it, being attacked by all the seagulls looking for lunch.
. Then, I went through the middle of the island on my way home and found myself in the woods again. Here is the path I am riding on going through the canopy of trees. I really enjoined all the sights the island had to offer. 
Then, I rode by my first flower farm. If this is what the entire country looks like in April, I will be so happy. Just this small section is beautiful! 
Then, on Wednesday I ventured all the way tip the northern tip of the island--15km from Den Burg. Here is a red lighthouse which is so cute and looked great on the landscape.
I just relaxed on the beach for a while and I had a great lunch at a cafe right on the beach. It was so nice and a great way to start off my day. On all the beaches, you can rent these small sheds that people use to store there things, get out from the sun and hang out in front of. If you ask me, its a little weird, but its interesting and they look super cute all lined up on the beach.
Then, I went to the town closest to this beach, De Cocksdorp. It was nice, but then after I left I found some other cute towns along the way that were much cuter. Here is one,
I stopped in three towns and they were all adorable and I had some great views along the way. One of the best had a famous dutch windmill in it.
It was a great, biking filled day! I loved my trip there! it was so relaxing!
Today, Thursday, was my last day on the island. I went to the town Oudenschild, only 3km from my hostel, for a few hours before heading home. It was so cute and had a harbor filled of ships. It was very quaint and I really liked it.
Now I am home and going out to meet some friends tonight, a day trip with one tomorrow and spending the night at another friend's house. Then, work on Monday but just for a week before Spain! YAY! Love you all! Keep reading!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
LOTS of days to talk about
These past few days have been great and filled with me finally finding myself a place within this routine and family. I know it will take a little longer, but I am definitely finding my place and feeling more and more comfortable each day.
Wednesday: Wednesday was Nigel's first birthday. Not much celebrating occured on the actual day, because he is so young, but he did get to open a TON of presents. He was also the king of the house and took his very FIRST steps. He is such a wobbly but adorable walker. Then, after the Dad got home, we took him and his older sister Kaitlyn to her school for their end of the year celebration. There was a pot luck and an adorable puppet show. It was really great. Here is a picture of Nigel enjoying being king for a day, and playing with his sister's hat:
He also got lots of present,s even though his sisters open and proceeded to play with most of them. I guess that is what siblings are for--lol. Here he is opening his totally cool new water bottle.
The puppet show was a huge hit and Kaitlyn just ate it up. She was SCREAMING to tell the puppets where the mouse was hiding and having a grand old time. Here she is, with her adorable smile, enjoying every little bit.
It was a great day and I just hung out at home at night.
Then, on Thursday, it was HOT HOT HOT outside. After a long day of trying to stay cool, we finally gave into the sprinkler. Nigel had the time of his life and would almost fall over in excitement each time the stream of water passed by him. It was one of the cutest things I have ever seen. Here he is, having the time of his life.
Then, that night, I went to a super cool craft night called Katie's Cozy Craft Corner. It was in this adorable cafe that had all antique, mismatching furniture and a great creative, cute vibe. There was homemade delicious cup cakes, cheap beer and make your own cocktails. There were also some great people. Although most of them were much older than me they were all very sweet and great to chat with. It was a really great experience and I am excited for when they start up again after the summer.
Friday was a beautiful and my day off. I decided to laze around for a little bit then go to the lake about a 10 minute bike ride away from the house and explore. It was absolutely beautiful and a great way to relax and spend a day off. I read, had a delicious ice cream and thoroughly enjoyed my day off. Here is a picture of the lake and the island in the middle. It really is a terrific park!
Then, that night I thought about going out and exploring some more, but after my late night on Thursday I decided to stay in, have a few beers and chat with Jane (my host mom). It was a lot of fun and a good relaxing night in.
Saturday my camera was dead and I was unable to take any pictures, which stinks because it was an eventful day. I woke up on the early side and traveled about an hour to the Haag, a city in the east of the Netherlands, to have lunch with a group of Smith Alumnae. There were seven of us; Me--the most recent graduate, a graduate of the 1 year American studies program who graduated in 2002 and a researcher for the unemployment offices of the Netherlands, a 1996 grad who is now a lawyer in the Haag and is the main prosecutor on the international peace tribunal for the Bosnian genocide, a 2000 grad who is a consultant for NGOs on efficiency and things to that affect and an architect who graduated in the 80s and two retirees who seemed like very powerful women, one who traveled for a living now, it seemed lol. It was terrific and I really enjoyed myself. The lawyer and I have kept in touch--he is due to have a baby girl in 2 weeks and we are already planning to meet in Amsterdam for playground time. She is also more than happy to help me with my law school idea and give me advice about applications the like. The researcher and I have also kept in touch and i am going to go to Rotterdam to see her next weekend to see her and see the city. Then, at night, I went into town to see the 3rd and 4th place game for the World Cup. I met a group of 5 guys from Eastern Holland who were very drunk and we had a great time together. Then, I came home and had a terrific night sleep. All in all, and eventful and fun day.
Sunday started with a birthday party for Kaitlyn, Nigel and Lorens, the dad. There was snacks, cakes, a kiddie pool and tons of fun. It was great and really fun to play with the kids and have a great time. The kids were adorable. Here is Kaitlyn opening up the present I gave her--a princess purse!
And, here, in her brand new Auora bikini marveling at her tummy. She is so cute!
It was also Nigel's 1st birthday and he had his first bite of cake. Here he is, being adorable and enjoying it!
As you can see, a fun and eventful day and THEN I went down town to watch the world cup game. Although we lost, it was a lot of fun and I don't think I have ever seen that much orange in my LIFE! I met up with another Au Pair, Alexa, and we met up with her friends. At first we went to Museumplien, where they were playing the game on jumbo trons, but we did not stay because it was SO hot and RIDICULOUSLY crowded. This was my view of the jumbo tron--all that orange got in the way!
We ended up at her friends apartment to watch the game. It was really fun to be in a room with 15 or so dutch people and watch the game. They screamed or cheer for every single play--much like red sox fans and how they worry about each pitch! I got really into it and hated that they lost, in the last 3 minutes on a lucky play. But, it was an amazing experience.
Monday, the first real day of summer vacation--I had all three kids and we stayed at home. The oldest girl hardly slept the night before and we needed to stay close tot he house in order to make sure no major meltdowns would occur. We had a lot of fun playing pretend, dancing, and making cards and gifts for their Au Pair Sarah who was leaving the next day. This day will also go down in history as the day I discovered Nigel's love for Alphabeat. Here he is dancing his heart out to the song Fantastic 6.
It was a fun filled day of relaxing at home.
Tuesday we went to the airport to say goodbye to their previous Au Pair. All of the public transportation was free because it was the day of the celebration parade--2nd place is still awesome, right? It was very sad to see the parents and children upset to see Sarah leave. She was great and they loved her. Hopefully i will have a heartfelt goodbye with them in a year, as well! The airport here is terrific and actually a fun place to play. There is a McDonalds style play park inside, an observation deck to watch the airplanes take off and land, lots of fun stores and one of the only inside malls in Amsterdam. After saying goodbye to Sarah, we hung out (me, the kids and the Mom) at the airport shopping, eating, playing and watching for a while. The kids had fun and it was a great day, in all. Here is Nigel, in his Darth Vader shirt he got for his birthday, playing with his new bike!
Today was Wednesday and I had Marisa and two of her friends--plus Nigel. It was a beautiful day outside, so we went to the park and played in the pool in the back yard. It as fun and a very eventful bike ride to he playground. It is about a 5 minute adult bike ride but imagine doing it with a baby on the front baby seat and three 5 year old girls on their own bikes two of which there is a serious language barrier between you and them. yes, interesting is a great way to describe the experience. It went well though, no one got hit and everyone got to and from the playground. I have no picture and no excuse, but the multiple picture days should make up for it! Love you all! Keep reading!
Wednesday: Wednesday was Nigel's first birthday. Not much celebrating occured on the actual day, because he is so young, but he did get to open a TON of presents. He was also the king of the house and took his very FIRST steps. He is such a wobbly but adorable walker. Then, after the Dad got home, we took him and his older sister Kaitlyn to her school for their end of the year celebration. There was a pot luck and an adorable puppet show. It was really great. Here is a picture of Nigel enjoying being king for a day, and playing with his sister's hat:
He also got lots of present,s even though his sisters open and proceeded to play with most of them. I guess that is what siblings are for--lol. Here he is opening his totally cool new water bottle.
The puppet show was a huge hit and Kaitlyn just ate it up. She was SCREAMING to tell the puppets where the mouse was hiding and having a grand old time. Here she is, with her adorable smile, enjoying every little bit.
It was a great day and I just hung out at home at night.
Then, on Thursday, it was HOT HOT HOT outside. After a long day of trying to stay cool, we finally gave into the sprinkler. Nigel had the time of his life and would almost fall over in excitement each time the stream of water passed by him. It was one of the cutest things I have ever seen. Here he is, having the time of his life.
Then, that night, I went to a super cool craft night called Katie's Cozy Craft Corner. It was in this adorable cafe that had all antique, mismatching furniture and a great creative, cute vibe. There was homemade delicious cup cakes, cheap beer and make your own cocktails. There were also some great people. Although most of them were much older than me they were all very sweet and great to chat with. It was a really great experience and I am excited for when they start up again after the summer.
Friday was a beautiful and my day off. I decided to laze around for a little bit then go to the lake about a 10 minute bike ride away from the house and explore. It was absolutely beautiful and a great way to relax and spend a day off. I read, had a delicious ice cream and thoroughly enjoyed my day off. Here is a picture of the lake and the island in the middle. It really is a terrific park!
Then, that night I thought about going out and exploring some more, but after my late night on Thursday I decided to stay in, have a few beers and chat with Jane (my host mom). It was a lot of fun and a good relaxing night in.
Saturday my camera was dead and I was unable to take any pictures, which stinks because it was an eventful day. I woke up on the early side and traveled about an hour to the Haag, a city in the east of the Netherlands, to have lunch with a group of Smith Alumnae. There were seven of us; Me--the most recent graduate, a graduate of the 1 year American studies program who graduated in 2002 and a researcher for the unemployment offices of the Netherlands, a 1996 grad who is now a lawyer in the Haag and is the main prosecutor on the international peace tribunal for the Bosnian genocide, a 2000 grad who is a consultant for NGOs on efficiency and things to that affect and an architect who graduated in the 80s and two retirees who seemed like very powerful women, one who traveled for a living now, it seemed lol. It was terrific and I really enjoyed myself. The lawyer and I have kept in touch--he is due to have a baby girl in 2 weeks and we are already planning to meet in Amsterdam for playground time. She is also more than happy to help me with my law school idea and give me advice about applications the like. The researcher and I have also kept in touch and i am going to go to Rotterdam to see her next weekend to see her and see the city. Then, at night, I went into town to see the 3rd and 4th place game for the World Cup. I met a group of 5 guys from Eastern Holland who were very drunk and we had a great time together. Then, I came home and had a terrific night sleep. All in all, and eventful and fun day.
Sunday started with a birthday party for Kaitlyn, Nigel and Lorens, the dad. There was snacks, cakes, a kiddie pool and tons of fun. It was great and really fun to play with the kids and have a great time. The kids were adorable. Here is Kaitlyn opening up the present I gave her--a princess purse!
And, here, in her brand new Auora bikini marveling at her tummy. She is so cute!
It was also Nigel's 1st birthday and he had his first bite of cake. Here he is, being adorable and enjoying it!
As you can see, a fun and eventful day and THEN I went down town to watch the world cup game. Although we lost, it was a lot of fun and I don't think I have ever seen that much orange in my LIFE! I met up with another Au Pair, Alexa, and we met up with her friends. At first we went to Museumplien, where they were playing the game on jumbo trons, but we did not stay because it was SO hot and RIDICULOUSLY crowded. This was my view of the jumbo tron--all that orange got in the way!
We ended up at her friends apartment to watch the game. It was really fun to be in a room with 15 or so dutch people and watch the game. They screamed or cheer for every single play--much like red sox fans and how they worry about each pitch! I got really into it and hated that they lost, in the last 3 minutes on a lucky play. But, it was an amazing experience.Monday, the first real day of summer vacation--I had all three kids and we stayed at home. The oldest girl hardly slept the night before and we needed to stay close tot he house in order to make sure no major meltdowns would occur. We had a lot of fun playing pretend, dancing, and making cards and gifts for their Au Pair Sarah who was leaving the next day. This day will also go down in history as the day I discovered Nigel's love for Alphabeat. Here he is dancing his heart out to the song Fantastic 6.
It was a fun filled day of relaxing at home. Tuesday we went to the airport to say goodbye to their previous Au Pair. All of the public transportation was free because it was the day of the celebration parade--2nd place is still awesome, right? It was very sad to see the parents and children upset to see Sarah leave. She was great and they loved her. Hopefully i will have a heartfelt goodbye with them in a year, as well! The airport here is terrific and actually a fun place to play. There is a McDonalds style play park inside, an observation deck to watch the airplanes take off and land, lots of fun stores and one of the only inside malls in Amsterdam. After saying goodbye to Sarah, we hung out (me, the kids and the Mom) at the airport shopping, eating, playing and watching for a while. The kids had fun and it was a great day, in all. Here is Nigel, in his Darth Vader shirt he got for his birthday, playing with his new bike!
Today was Wednesday and I had Marisa and two of her friends--plus Nigel. It was a beautiful day outside, so we went to the park and played in the pool in the back yard. It as fun and a very eventful bike ride to he playground. It is about a 5 minute adult bike ride but imagine doing it with a baby on the front baby seat and three 5 year old girls on their own bikes two of which there is a serious language barrier between you and them. yes, interesting is a great way to describe the experience. It went well though, no one got hit and everyone got to and from the playground. I have no picture and no excuse, but the multiple picture days should make up for it! Love you all! Keep reading!
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Friend, Orange and a Birthday!
Sunday:
On Sunday I met up with another Au Pair downtown. Her name was Renata and she was sooooooo nice. We ate lunch at an adorable cafe and walked around through the downtown shopping district and chatted. She is from Poland and definitely has that Polish welcoming and kind charm. We ate at a cafe and I had a very dutch meal--one giant meatball cut in half covered in gravy and on top of a roll. I was given spicy mustard , pickles and pickled onions with it. We also went out for ice cream, which was absolutely delicious. Daniel and I went to the same ice cream place when we were in Amsterdam a year and a half ago and it was still divine. I am most likely seeing Renata again this weekend, and I am really excited!
This is an adorable picture I took of a cafe in Amsterdam. Amsterdam is full of hidden jems like this!
Monday:
On Monday I had the baby, Nigel, and the younger girl, Kaitlyn, all day. We decided to go to the airport, which is actually a fun place to take kids. Good job, Amsterdam. It was gray and cloudy when we left, so we wanted to do an inside activity. After getting lost in the train station a little and having a hard time maneuvering the carriage when the elevator was broken, we got to the airport. This is a picture of us waiting for the train. Isn't she adorable?
At the airport, we had lunch and then we walked around. We did not make it to the observation deck, which is supposedly super cool, but one of the stores has a real cockpit and body of an airplane for kids to play in. That was very entertaining! They were very good and the little girl was dying to loo at some dresses in a store--she is a little fashionista in the making. Then, I introduced her to the world of scented body lotion in the Body Shop and we went back twice, after we washed our hands, so she could try another scent. Here is a picture of the two of them in the airport. I am telling you, these must eb the cutest kids in the world.
Then, after naps, we went to the playground right next to the house to play. Marisa, the oldest, had 2 friends over, and there were lots of kids at the park, so it was a fun time. It is literally around the corner form their house, and there are 3 or 4 more within walking distance, which is very nice. This is such a nice neighborhood, a great place to live. That is always a plus!
Tuesday:
Yesterday was Kaitlyn's birthday! She had party number one at her school. She brought all the kids little gifts and sweets and she got to be sung to, get lots of kisses and presents from her class and teacher. She even got an adorable birthday crown!
We had fun when she was home too; she got to go shopping with her Mom, have her favorite lunch--a grilled cheese, for lunch, and her favorite dinner--plain pasta nothing on it--for dinner. She also really wanted to go to the big playground (spilleton in dutch) so we took her and she had a great time. That is also where they are having her birthday party on Sunday--which is combined with her Dad and brother because there are 3 birthdays in 4 days in this house! CRAZY! It was a great day, but it got a little crazy at night when they were all crying when we were trying to put them to bed! But, kids will be kids! Miss and love you all1
On Sunday I met up with another Au Pair downtown. Her name was Renata and she was sooooooo nice. We ate lunch at an adorable cafe and walked around through the downtown shopping district and chatted. She is from Poland and definitely has that Polish welcoming and kind charm. We ate at a cafe and I had a very dutch meal--one giant meatball cut in half covered in gravy and on top of a roll. I was given spicy mustard , pickles and pickled onions with it. We also went out for ice cream, which was absolutely delicious. Daniel and I went to the same ice cream place when we were in Amsterdam a year and a half ago and it was still divine. I am most likely seeing Renata again this weekend, and I am really excited!
This is an adorable picture I took of a cafe in Amsterdam. Amsterdam is full of hidden jems like this!
Monday:
On Monday I had the baby, Nigel, and the younger girl, Kaitlyn, all day. We decided to go to the airport, which is actually a fun place to take kids. Good job, Amsterdam. It was gray and cloudy when we left, so we wanted to do an inside activity. After getting lost in the train station a little and having a hard time maneuvering the carriage when the elevator was broken, we got to the airport. This is a picture of us waiting for the train. Isn't she adorable?
At the airport, we had lunch and then we walked around. We did not make it to the observation deck, which is supposedly super cool, but one of the stores has a real cockpit and body of an airplane for kids to play in. That was very entertaining! They were very good and the little girl was dying to loo at some dresses in a store--she is a little fashionista in the making. Then, I introduced her to the world of scented body lotion in the Body Shop and we went back twice, after we washed our hands, so she could try another scent. Here is a picture of the two of them in the airport. I am telling you, these must eb the cutest kids in the world.
Then, after naps, we went to the playground right next to the house to play. Marisa, the oldest, had 2 friends over, and there were lots of kids at the park, so it was a fun time. It is literally around the corner form their house, and there are 3 or 4 more within walking distance, which is very nice. This is such a nice neighborhood, a great place to live. That is always a plus!
Tuesday:
Yesterday was Kaitlyn's birthday! She had party number one at her school. She brought all the kids little gifts and sweets and she got to be sung to, get lots of kisses and presents from her class and teacher. She even got an adorable birthday crown!
We had fun when she was home too; she got to go shopping with her Mom, have her favorite lunch--a grilled cheese, for lunch, and her favorite dinner--plain pasta nothing on it--for dinner. She also really wanted to go to the big playground (spilleton in dutch) so we took her and she had a great time. That is also where they are having her birthday party on Sunday--which is combined with her Dad and brother because there are 3 birthdays in 4 days in this house! CRAZY! It was a great day, but it got a little crazy at night when they were all crying when we were trying to put them to bed! But, kids will be kids! Miss and love you all1
Saturday, July 3, 2010
THE WORLD CUP!!!!!!!!
So, yesterday was a day off for me-YAY for three day weekends. I decided to have a lazy morning and eat lunch at the house and then go into town and explore before watching the Nederlands play in the world cup against Brazil. I walked around and went to buy a few things I forgot--some shampoo, conditioner, a cup for my toothbrush, umbrella and I also had to buy an orange shirt. I found a cheap (5 Euros) t-shirt that was orange and has the name Nederlands and the symbol. It was really great to wear during the game. Then, I went to one of the main squares to see how it was. Man, was it crowded. I lasted about 10 minutes, in which Brazil scored once and almost scored (off-sides call) and I met an Australian in a red sox hat. Then, I walked up to a square I explored earlier to find a cafe or bar. This place was much more dutch--no tourists and lots of people really into the game, not just having a good time and needing an excuse to drink earlier in the day. It was really fun to watch and after half time, chaos ensued as the Nederlands scored two goals to win the game and promote them to the semi finals.
Here are some pictures of the people cheering and celebrating after the win!
After hanging around for 20 extra minutes, I got on the tram and for the entire ride home cars were honking their horns and people were still cheering. It was crazy how excited everyone was. Tuesday is the next round, where we play Uruguay, which will be exciting. I wont be able to go downtown because I will be working but I will still hear the excitement from the neighbors and be able to watch it myself.
AND today, the current Au pair, Sarah, took me around down town, and showed me some of the major sights. Se showed me the library, the science museum, some great bars and cafes and we ran into a great Thai fair and had delicious food for lunch. Mine was extra spicy bamboo, onions and tofu. YUM! it was great to have a tour guide to show me around and she was able to point out some great stores, good places to take the kids, the American store and things like that. We also got to chat about life, both in general and as an Au pair and she gave me some good advice. She seems to be very similar to me and that seems like a good sign for my success with this family. It was a great day and we came across an amazing sign. There are public urinals all over the city, and this is a sign for one. I wonder who had to create that sign, lol!
Tonight we are going into town for a good time! She showed me a bar with good music and cheap drinks, so maybe we will start there and explore. Then, tomorrow I am meeting up with another Au pair to meet and greet and hopefully become friends. This year is off to a great start!
Here are some pictures of the people cheering and celebrating after the win!
After hanging around for 20 extra minutes, I got on the tram and for the entire ride home cars were honking their horns and people were still cheering. It was crazy how excited everyone was. Tuesday is the next round, where we play Uruguay, which will be exciting. I wont be able to go downtown because I will be working but I will still hear the excitement from the neighbors and be able to watch it myself.
AND today, the current Au pair, Sarah, took me around down town, and showed me some of the major sights. Se showed me the library, the science museum, some great bars and cafes and we ran into a great Thai fair and had delicious food for lunch. Mine was extra spicy bamboo, onions and tofu. YUM! it was great to have a tour guide to show me around and she was able to point out some great stores, good places to take the kids, the American store and things like that. We also got to chat about life, both in general and as an Au pair and she gave me some good advice. She seems to be very similar to me and that seems like a good sign for my success with this family. It was a great day and we came across an amazing sign. There are public urinals all over the city, and this is a sign for one. I wonder who had to create that sign, lol!
Tonight we are going into town for a good time! She showed me a bar with good music and cheap drinks, so maybe we will start there and explore. Then, tomorrow I am meeting up with another Au pair to meet and greet and hopefully become friends. This year is off to a great start!
Friday, July 2, 2010
Crazy But Fun Day
Today was a great day. It was my first time really being alone with the kids, because the other Au Pair had something to do. It was nice to feel how the job would really be--not how it would be as someone's shadow. Then, I went with the Mother, three kids and the oldest girl's friend to pick up the kid's passports--which they need to be there for even if they are 11 months old. I had to ride the bakfiets--which is very similar to the christiana bike (for those in CPH with me). It has a bucket of some kind in the front, and a tricycle like bike around it. It is not easy to steer, but easy enough to ride. Since it was my first time, the girls wanted to help me so they sang me songs to cheer me on. It was cute. I am finding that the older girl can be difficult, but that I am slowly winning her over, bit by bit. Then, on the way home, Jane was stopped by a Chinese family because she looks like she speaks Chinese, even though her Chinese is rusty, if that. They ended up coming to the house and we had to help them find a place to stay, because they were out of luck and all the downtown hotels they tried were full. It created a hectic dinner time and I ended up leave risotto in front of the baby for like 5 minutes to come back to it all over him, the highchair and the dinning room. WOOPS! In all, a good day, and a cute picture to add to the excitement. 
Now, like all my weekends here, I have a 3 day weekend! Off to explore!
Now, like all my weekends here, I have a 3 day weekend! Off to explore!
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