OUR AMSTERDAM STOPOVER: CANALS, BURGERS, AND BAGS!

Our European adventure continues! We were up bright and early to catch our train to Amsterdam. My mom and sister were so excited for this cross-country trip, glued to the window as the scenery whizzed by. There's something magical about train travel in Europe!

Arriving in the early morning, our first order of business was breakfast. What a treat to find freshly baked kruitebollen (currant buns) paired with hot coffee – just the thing to warm us up in the chilly air!

Our first stop was a poignant one: the Anne Frank House. It was a sobering experience, a reminder of a dark period in history, but an important place to visit.

The real highlight of our Amsterdam visit, though, was simply wandering along the city's charming streets and marveling at the beautiful canals. It was a dream come true for my mom and sister, and honestly, for me too. Amsterdam is truly picturesque, and the atmosphere is so unique.

Next on the list: shopping! My mom had her eye on a particular bag brand called Smaak, and she was thrilled to find the perfect one. Retail therapy at its finest!

We took our time exploring, soaking in the beauty of the city at a leisurely pace. It was a slow day, but in the best possible way.

And when hunger struck, we made sure to try some of Amsterdam's famous burgers before heading off to our next destination. They were delicious and the perfect way to cap off our Amsterdam visit.

It was a rewarding side trip, a full day of just absorbing the beauty and charm of Amsterdam. We can't wait for what tomorrow holds as we explore Brussels in Belgium!