World Refugee Day

Today is "World Refugee Day".
 
Yesterday I was asked by a UNHCR representative what I would take with me, if I were forced to flee my home and if I could only take one thing with me.  The question not only created clarity on what's truly important, but it also resulted in contemplation of the millions of refugees that are actually forced to face this reality.
 
My answer... "Buster".  He is my angel.

www.unhcr.org

Attention: "Cycling Friends"

Have you ever heard of the "North Sea Cycling Route (NSCR)"?  We hadn't either until recently...

The NSCR will take you into 8 countries with interesting and scenic views throughout your journey.  The Netherlands is, of course, one of these countries and our apartment is literally within a few blocks of the route!

Now that we know about the NSCR.... shall we make plans to do this?  ...Is anyone out there interested in joining us if we do???  Hmmm... 

For more information:
http://www.northsea-cycle.com/default.asp?id=1&mnu=1&lang=1

If you would rather experience this via the comfort of your own home then check out this YouTube video:

Random Photos - Scheveningen (The Hague)

A few random photos taken while walking on the boardwalk in Scheveningen today. It was a bit windy and chilly, but that didn't stop us! 

Japanese Garden at Clingendael Park in The Hague

The beautiful and tranquil Japanese Garden is located in Clingendael Park (The Hague).  The garden is only open for two months during the year, one month in the spring and the other in autumn.  Admission is free.

This past weekend was the last weekend the park is open until October.  The photos below were taken during our beautiful morning stroll.  Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

  

 

For more information:

http://www.denhaag.nl/en/residents/to/Japanese-Garden-in-Clingendael-Park.htm

Attention Movie Buff's: The Hague - International Film Productions

...interesting and very cool!  Take a look at this short video...

2013 Den Haag Beer Festival

Yes, we did have fun!!!

Who would have guessed... Tennessee tunes right here in Den Haag?!?  It has been quite awhile since either of us have heard any Johnny Cash... but yesterday we heard lots!  These guys were great!

Me (Melissa) simply having some fun!

Carrie's 'southern accent' and 'southern charm' became stronger with each beer!  She ended up talking our bartender into giving her this sleek Brand beer glass.  When I had asked her why she didn't ask for one for me, she replied "you need to work on having your own southern accent"! 

Carrie's beer and my 'biologisch' (organic) beer...

Lots of options...

Why is it that the really good beer has such a high alcohol content?!?

My favorite beer of the day was the third beer from the right in this photo...  not bitter, slightly sweet.

Our 'first' beer sample... my choice... the 'angel'...

...and Carrie's choice... the 'devil'...  Is anyone surprised at this?!?

Needless to say, we have lots of family and friends who were in our thoughts throughout this experience.  We know that many of you would have enjoyed this event with us.

Cheers!

BTW...
To learn more about Kruijens Kracht beer (my favorite yesterday), which had won a 2012 best 'new' beer award, go to their website at....
www.kruijenskracht.nl/