Amsterdam

Amsterdam

It’s 36 hours and counting since leaving Phoenix and we’re still going, but not so strong now. Arrived here with the sunrise, after a long and wonderfully none-eventful flight. But we were none to bright for the all nighter & no sleep. Clouds and light rain here, and so much green we observed fields and greenhouses on the approach in from the north. Little issue with immigration and customs folks, collected luggage and stepped aboard the metro train for the15 minute ride to the central rail station downtown. How civilized.

First had to get over the shock that everyone here looked like everyone else we know or see daily in the US except they were talking Netherlander or Dutch. Then we noticed that there were bicycles EVERYWHERE and established lanes separate from car and pedestrians, although there appeared a lot of “overlap” in the small crowded downtown. Bicycles were parked all over and the bikes were, well, just ordinary 1 speed or maybe 3 speed utilitarian bikes. Not fancy and not always well maintained but they were being used! Saw lots of cars with the bikes and vans, but no SUV’s.

Debated the wisdom of a short nap, but decided better to push on to complete exhaustion, then early to bed and hopefully an all night in dreamland, thankful to have crossed the ocean safely and looking forward to tomorrow and picking up our new “home” for the next 2 months.

Can barely see straight so good night

It's about time...

Almost ready now. Bags packed, food stowed and friends updated on our motorhome systems etc. as we're leaving house and pickup with friends in Scottsdale, AZ. Arranged to put cell phone on suspension and same with the internet service. This must mean we're really going to leave. We're both wired ( and I'm a little wine-ed) for a wakeup call of 4:30am for a 9am MST flight from Phoenix to Philadelphia. It's only 101F outside and the A/C is going full tilt on 30amp service. We're about to pull plug on the refrigerator and the bread, snacks, cheese etc. are packed. What else? Sleep, if we're lucky. (That's why the wine, $2Buck Chuck Shiraz) Early to bed because it's a long day to Amsterdam. Arrival 08:05 GMT Thursday, 6 September. Pleasant dreams and good night. tom and nancy

Counting down the hours

Time is moving quickly and we're still packing, unpacking, repacking and it looks like a lot of stuff for only 2 months, and we could probably buy it there but why pay a 40%premium if we (Tom) can carry it as luggage! Trying to get computer setup and all the wires and gadgets ready and not forget whatever that one critical charger, wire or adapter needed to make all these electronics function that are integrated into our "simple"l ifestyle.

Received word yesterday that there is a firm mortgage committment for the family property in PA and that final closing is scheduled for 6 September. What a relief after so much effort and worry. Really excited that a young couple with kid(s) will be making the house a new home. In fact, Sarah is expecting a child due on closing day the 6th. Needless to say they are excited and anxious to get settled ASAP.

Nancy had her last shot in the knees on Wednesday. SHe's feeling well and as ready as can be. We're both anxious in general, but the long flight over will definitely be a concern for her back and knees and mine, too. Enjoyed a visit with friends on Wednesday night along with 112F temps in the Phoenix area. They've set another record with over 30 days consecutive with temps above 100F!

That's it for now...hope to get another update before we leave Tuesday. We're now cleaning out the pantry, cleaning up the house and preparing to leave it for 2 months. Never done this before...Happy trails and keep in touch, tom and nancy

Two weeks to take off...

Just returned from NE Pennsylvania and a whirlwind visit to prepare our jointly-owned family homestead for sale. It was just 2 weeks from announcement that the house and 4+acres had a buyer and I was able to return. And yet, in just that time the subprime housing market collapse ripples had spread fast with now uncertain effects on the "sure-thing" sale we initially had. The house needed a good cleanup anyway, and enjoyed time with my cousin Bob and brief visits with old friends. It's a little shaky now but we're making ready again for Europe anyway. Nancy made good use of the time and started "practice packing" the suitcases. She also spent time sewing and modifying bed linens and other items for the trip. That's it for now...happy trails from back in Prescott.

A small detour on the way to Europe

Slowly our European travel plans are coming together and an itinerary is taking form. In the meantime, Tom is heading to NE Pennsylvania for a brief and difficult task of cleaning out the family homestead for sale. It's only a few weeks to departure time...are we ready, yet? We're enjoying the monsoon season in Prescott, AZ, although it's taking some getting used to the clouds and occasional rains...better we get used to it before Europe, though. Happy trails!