Dag 20: Sunshine in Maastricht!

Saturday, September 10, 2011: Maastricht, Netherlands

The Old Bridge

Last night, my remaining housemate, Jeanette, arrived at the house for the semester. We stayed up late celebrating her arrival with a bottle of wine and lots of catching up. Needless to say, it was a late night!

I woke up late this morning to sunshine - a phenomenon that's been missing for days! Glancing out the window, I knew I needed to take advantage of this weather while I could. Sunshine is getting to be a rarity in the Netherlands, as the summer folds into autumn, which looks more like winter in the US.

A better picture of the Botel

After a small meal, I packed my blanket and headed for the park near the water - a familiar terrain from my trip to Maastricht while living in Tilburg. That was also a lovely sunny day, with hundreds and Dutch and tourists alike soaking up the sun and taking advantage of the good weather. That's really what I love about Europe - people know and do appreciate things like sunshine! A day like today (especially since its a weekend!) will crowd the outdoor cafes with people ready for a drink, pack the narrow streets with shoppers, and cover the parks with picnics and students studying. Its really a delightful occasion.

View of the Maas River & Maastricht

So I took some time for me today and laid out for a bit in the park and finished my book (yes, the one I have been reading ALL summer!). It was nice to just relax and not have to be anywhere. I even treated myself to gelato and window-shopped before heading back to the house. I was surprised that I was even a bit sweaty upon reaching home....I guess it is 27C outside!

According to the weather channel, tomorrow and Monday are supposed to be equally nice (knock on wood...my desk is sure convenient!). I am thankful for the sunshine while we have it! I do enjoy a nice, cool day, but I know there will be plenty of those to come. I'll raise my glass to sunshine in the meantime!