Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Amsterdam

Fall break came just when I needed it. I used my break to relax but also work ahead on school items that will help with my stress level. Of course, the job is never done. That's the thing about teaching- there is a never ending to-do-list hanging over your head. That list becomes very overwhelming and I feel like I'm in a cartoon. There some characters with questions over their heads, there I am with a paper and pencil. 

Back to break, I started break a bit sooner than expected. With my problem with my stomach, the doctor instructed me to stay home and rest. I've had tenderness in my stomach but not exactly the same thing other than one morning. I woke up at 4 that Sunday and was in a lot of pain. I kept thinking I should go to the hospital- but I didn't know for sure. So I said a prayer and ended up falling back to sleep on my own. When I woke again around 8, I was ok and everything passed. 

So come the first official day of break, Carlie and I traveled outside of Berlin to the B5 outlets. I actually bought less than I expected but I did leave with a few goodies. We shopped for a good portion of the day and when I got home I just passed out. The following days I did a little bit of school work and relaxation. The highlights include a haircut, a trip to the dentist, and Thursday's Street Food Market. The rest of the time I was in total relaxation/ school mode. It's a toss up. 

Carlie and I enjoying an evening out sampling pork sandwiches, käsespätzle, and many other tasty things. 

Me with this oh-so-cheesy grin because I'm having some darn good IPA beer. #tasteofhome

For three days, I traveled with my colleague to Amsterdam. We had a wonderful time. We traveled by train on Wednesday and arrived around 5 PM. Across from where we were staying was a great Caribbean restaurant. We are there both evenings. I begged the owner to open a place in Berlin. I've never had Caribbean food before but I never want to go without it again. These women I swear are magicians. 


The first night, I had jerk chicken with rice and some plantains. The next night, we split had fried banana chips with avocado sauce, some sort of steak dinner heaven, and to top it off- remember these ladies are magicians... sweet potato dessert. I would never consider anything potatoes really be dessert but I'll swear it until the end this was so delectable. 

Anyway, we just had dinner and chilled after our day on the train. The next morning, we waked to the Van Gogh Museum. This was my wish while we were in Amsterdam and didn't disappoint. It's incredible. Lately, I've been aware of the lack of art and creativity in my life. It was eye opening and I've really been thinking about what's next. We continued on walking towards Hard Rock Cafe for lunch. We had the sampler and I had the best, amazing twisted shake. I cannot wait to have it again! 


Afterwards, we were going to the beer company for a tour and tasting but the bartender directed us not to do that. She recommended us to go to Blue• it had the best views of Amsterdam. Afterwards, we walked through the Red Light District to get home.  It was an experience. For me, more sad than anything else and with the same shops over and over. 

On our way to the Red Light District, I was intrigued by a alley filled with books. It was very cool to see- this large book sale happening near the university. 

We had dinner and were so exhausted we just stayed in. The next morning we found a bakery, coffee and walked our way to the train station. 


Train ride + book recommendation. 

It was a nice get away but I need to go back to see more. I know there are great museums there- I'll have to check out when to go again. 

Interesting in tidbits:
  • Everyone is so willing to speak English
  • English TV Programs- This is totally awesome since I watch everything on my computer here. 
  • Triple seater bikes: No joke- I don't know how you get three people on one bike but they have seats for it. 
  • Biking is an art form there: In Berlin, bikes and cars seem to take and give smoothly, but in Amsterdam it's a whole new level. Everywhere there is a bike lane. Bikes clearly rule the roads there. 
  • Coffee shops vs bar: As everyone knows, Amsterdam is often known for coffee shops or a place to buy some weed. (Side note: Not for me. I've never done drugs and it's something I'm really proud of. I've been offered but have always declined.) Anyway, something that blows my mind is in a coffee shop, the owner can not sell any alcoholic drinks. 






xoxo

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