Birthplace of Rembrant, Esher, Van Gohg...and H&M? Yes, I am in the Netherlands, leaving tomorrow morning. It is such a wonderful, beautiful city. I didn't partake in any of the sinful affairs of Amsterdam but did take in a lot of culture. I even rented a bike and rode around the city, successfully navigating from Richard's house to the City Centre all by myself without getting lost. Although I did have two run ins of crashing my bike into the locals at various intersections. The first time, the person laughed it off, today the woman gave me the dirtiest look ever. Besides that, I waited in line for the Anne Frank house and was moved to tears, did a canal tour, visited the Van Gogh museum, had many cafe experiences by the water and Richard took us to this little fishing town nearby with his friend Jamal (Brooke or Shannon, he's a doctor, single and cute....let me know if you want an email buddy from Amsterdam). It was wonderful sitting by the water, eating and feeling the breeze. Richard is a kind person with a great gentle spirit, thanks Colleen for the hook up, I really appreciated his hospitality. The only downfall is my deformed eye right now, where the first night I was here, I slept with my hair wet and mosquitos attacked...I look like I've been punched in one eye, it's all swollen and red. Also my butt is aching from riding bikes, I am returning it tomorrow before I head into Germany. It will be interesting to see how I manage with my backpack and the bike....I will keep you guys informed, should be quite the adventure. I feel bad for any dutch people who happen to be out riding tomorrow...might have some more run ins.

So, another action packed day, soaking in the sights. Some people have been requesting photos, I haven't had the chance to upload them yet but should be able to do it when I get to Germany. I am probably going to skip Berlin now and head straight to Prague, just for the sake of time. I am meeting my friend Georgia in Rome on August 10th, and so I don't want to be too rushed doing it. I can't even believe that I have been gone for a week now! Crazy, time is flying by...still have to do the hostel thing.

Anyway, I am starting to miss everyone a lot but I know that I will be home soon to see everyone. In the meantime, keep out of trouble!

Anne