John and I travelled seven hours by train to settle in for a demure landing in Amsterdam. We decided to cut back on the touristy stuff for a few reasons; including dealing with FTC and McGill stuff, prep for Ecuador and to reenergise before the challenges of work in the developing world.

In addition, John had sustained a sore knee in The Battle of Brussels (otherwise known as changing trains) and was not up to doing musuems or walking tours. And, for all his good will, he does not appreciate art to the point of gorging like I do.

So we went to Waterstone's, a large and famous English bookstore where I bought children's books. I am toying with the idea of going back there to get a few more supplies before we leave. I bought new headphones, and John and I had drinks outside while we watched Amsterdam go by. We went to go see a movie, the only thing I miss horribly while travelling.

Peaceful and normal. And thus, very enjoyable.