Amsterdam

We drove to Amsterdam, had dinner (Argentinian steaks), walked around downtown a little, and sent Brad and the dogs off on a plane to Dallas.  It was so much easier for him to leave than it was when the dogs came here.  I guess Brad had some problem with the customs in the states - they didn't want to accept the 3 year rabies shot, which the dogs got in the states, because of a new rule.  Brad was able to talk them into accepting it - being nice, Texas and military orders all worked in his favor.

On the drive to Amsterdam we had a full van - the van we'd rented to take us around town.  The back space was filled with dog kennels and our bags, and the dogs were split between the back two seats.  Bow laid on the floor at mine and Jessica's feet, keeping our toes toasty warm, while Cruiser sat up on the seat between Shelly and Andrew, keeping his eye on the drive.  Both dogs behaved great, staying still and quiet for the drive, they sure are good travelers.

The next morning, after seeing Brad off early in the morning, we drove around Amsterdam.  One thing we all noticed is that bikes are just as dominant as the pedestrians and cars as means of transportation.  They have whole bike lanes with their own bike traffic lights, bike parking lots, bike garages, and INSANE bike riders.  You have to drive slow and stay ready to hit the breaks in Amsterdam.

The architecture is very modern, with historic buildings in downtown and canals all over the place.  I'm going to be back there in a week to pick up Brad, and we're going to see some sites, but here's some pictures of our venture.  And yes - there are windmills!