Family , Food and Redlights

Amsterdam 13 th May
Another sunny day here in Amsterdam.We had another lay in today before heading out to my uncles . As we weren't expected till around lunch time we wandered along the canals and narrow alleyways browsing the small boutique shops taking our time enjoying the sunshine.
Lyn found a couple of bargains , not all the shops were open as it is Sunday but we enjoyed window shopping and soaked up the atmosphere as we made our way to the train.

The trip on the Metro took us underground for a short distance then we emerged outside the old part of Amsterdam to a newer part with high rise apartments along side the rail line
We had a short walk to my uncles place and as we approached my Tante Leni saw us and came out to greet us. The unit that Oom Fran's and Tante Leni have is well situated and they have pleasant views over the front garden towards a canal ,they appear very comfortable .

We chatted and showed them the photos we had put on the IPad with pics of our house that they had not seen before also some of the boat cruise . Lyn cannot speak any of the language but coped well and there was lots of laughter .
Tante Leni had gone to a lot of trouble to prepare lunch for us and we were presented with Halibut Pâté wrapped in smoked salmon a leafy salad ,stuffed tomatoes small asparagus spears wrapped in a smoked Belgian bacon accompanied by a home made quiche.
Small cakes and chocolates came with our coffee just as well we are doing a lot of walking!!!!

As we were eating Marion and Faan arrived and Marion presented us with a specially signed copy of her book.This is some thing that we will both treasure. We spent the rest of the afternoon chatting and enjoying each others company.

This evening after returning to the apartment to freshen up we headed out and visited the red light district . There were quite a few people on the streets many couples keen to see what was going on. The weather defied the prediction and it was quite balmy as we wandered the lanes and canals observing the ladies displaying their wares in the windows. They seemed to be doing a roaring trade and the surrounding bars and "Coffee shops" were also doing very well. Thewhole place was a sea of neon lights most of them red.

More tomorrow Keenmolly.