Amsterdam

What am I learning while in Amsterdam? This is an incredible place. We arrived into the pouring rain and came to the hotel at 9 am. We were exhausted from the long flight and were not sure what we would do while waiting for our room - our rooms were ready so they let us in at 9 am!! Unheard of... Took a short nap then out to the streets. The Dutch are SO TALL! If I could describe what I observed of the people in 2 words it would be "not uptight". It is poring rain and the streets are full of people going along doing their business with their umbrellas. Only rarely see someone talking or texting on a cell phone. Dress is casual comfort but stylish (lots os scarves wrapped loosely). Minimal makeup. The people are not unfriendly - they are helpful if you ask but mostly don't go out of their way to smile and be friendly (unless in the hospitality industry). A feeling of acceptance. Sarah noted that she really liked that the people respect your personal space - the streets are full of people yet they don't crowd you and people are polite. Common to see public displays of affection. Couples are holding hands or have their arms around each other's shoulders. How do I describe what I am feeling? That here I have already learned that I need to relax more and live in the moment. That is what they seem so good at - not being worried all the time about the next thing, or about materialistic pursuits. I see people all over who are enjoying a drink or leisurely meal but talking, laughing, connecting with their friends. No fast food to speak of. Everywhere you look people seem to be connecting. The bicycles - major modes of transportation are bicycles or walking. And these are not your fancy multi geared fancy bikes. Just coaster brakes, very used, possibly with saddle bags or a makeshift plastic crate fixed to the front handlebars. We saw a child of about 8 standing on the back of his Dads bike as his Dad wove through the streets. Literally standing on the small flat back wheel cover and just loosely holding on to his Dads back. Or women sitting "side saddle on the back wheel plate while their companion drove. Saw all modes of dress riding bikes - these are not your fitness buffs -it is everyone. Dresses, high heels,even a guy in a tie (although I didn't see much of the professional attire we see). Seems like suits and ties wouldn't be embraced he because they would be too restrictive and comfort is king. Wrinkles are ok - bet irons aren't used much. Why do we get so hung up on that type of expectation. I see my kids leaving the house with wrinkled clothes and I say, no, bring me that so I can iron it. After all, what would people think of me if I let my kids out with wrinkles? I sense here that life is about the here and now and living in the moment. While on the segway tour (which not surprisinly is run by North Americans who have moved here), i saw some graffiti that said "i feel perfect about being imperfect". That is my lesson from this - everything does not have to be perfect, live right now.