We are starting to settle in to this living in Amsterdam thing. Today we started working in earnest, did some more exploring, and ate some more really good food.
After getting up at a much more reasonable hour, we headed down to grab breakfast from the little corner bakery. Our staple has been to go in and buy two croissants for 1euro each and then get some fruit from the place a little further down. Much has been said in travel blogs and books about the general friendliness of the Dutch people. From our little time here so far, I would agree wholeheartedly – except for the bakery lady. I don’t know if it is because she has probably been there toiling away since 4 in the morning, or if she is just a little cranky, but this is the second day in a row that I have received a withering, “who the hell are you, what the hell do you want” stare while ordering our items. No worries though, I’ve got two months to win her over!
We spent most of the day working from the apartment. The wifi is fast and unlimited – sweet! The place has two skylights and big windows all around – its really airy and nice. Except that a bee came in today and terrorized me for a while!
We went out in the evening to get some groceries. Noelle wanted this flower for the apartment; I looked pretty cool right??
We made mussels tonight for dinner. I love steamed mussels, they are easy to make, affordable due to the lack of ingredients needed, and taste soooo good (mostly due to the mounds of butter on everything).
Our laissez-faire method for making steamed mussels: Start with shallots or any onion, and olive oil in a big pot. Add, and keep adding white wine (a bottle sounds good), and lots of butter until you get a nice, somewhat creamy consistency. Dump the mussels into the pot and cover. While those cook, race around getting together your crusty bread, salad, and whatever else you so desire for dinner. Stir or shake the pot a few times, drink more wine, get the table ready. Don’t forget to add some salt and pepper or other seasonings to the pot too; whatever works for you. When the mussels are opened, they are ready – scoop them into bowls with some of the steamy broth and you are good to go!
