Wednesday, July 13, 2011

June 9 (email to Fam)


Last Evening (June 8)

After some challenge I found the address of my hosts in Bergon. The TI gave me directions, but they were not accurate. I consulted with Lady I saw walking, then called the host and let him talk to her. He told her where he lived and she then directed me. When I got close | saw a man waiting for me in the street.

They were a wonderful welcoming couple, William (pronounced Vilm), and Gerta. After meeting and getting acquainted, Vilm showed me to my room. There was a welcome note and a chocolate on the pillow. After showering and shaving I returned to the living area. Gerta had gone to meet a friend, Vilm offered me a glass of wine, so we sat at the table and got to know each other.

Vilm recommended a restaurant for my supper, gave me a key to the house, and gave me directions. He informed me that he and his wife were meeting friends to see the movie "127 days" and would not be in until late. I went to town for supper and had a good fish and chips meal. When I returned there was a note on the dining table wishing me a good nights rest, accompanied with a beer and a mug!

I watched TV with their cat which adopted my lap for a quick nap. I went to my room about 11:00 PM and quickly fell into a restful sleep.

Today (June 9)

I was up by 7 and down for breakfast at 8 AM, they asked if they could join me for breakfast, and I was happy for share breakfast around the table with them. He indicated that we would have a short prayer. I felt right at home. On departure they packed me a lunch including two bananas, yogurt two sandwiches, and one of their personal spoons. What wonderful hosts. After photos with each of them I departed about 9:00 AM

Scenery – North Sea Ocean, dunes, dike

Found my way with fewer backtracks today, basically follow the Holland coast along the North sea for 50 kilometers. Nice day blue skies, strong wind from South West, I was going North, get the picture? I made good time. Stopped often to verify route and enjoy the scenery. After Making my initial destination Den Helder, I continued South East to the town of Anna Paulowna. After much searching for the TI getting directions and arriving at the House I logged a total of 77 kilometers.

I Met the hosts Sipke, and Marja Koopmans a very nice couple in their sixties. After hearing about my trip and getting acquainted, they helped me call and arrange for accommodations at my next destination. They recommended a place for my super and I was off to fill the tummy. I had a Greek Pork gyro, followed by a stop for a soft serve ice cream. When I returned to the house Sipke offers his computer for email. I quickly accepted his offer.

Oh, I almost for got to mention that at Den Helder I found the TI and went in to ask directions for my way to Anna Paulowna. The very beautiful Alexia was very helpful, inquiring about my trip and recommending a change from my planned route. I will take her recommendation to follow a more interesting route. When I arrived at Anna Paulowna and finally found the TI, A very nice young lady, Wendy helped direct me to the address. She informed me that she knew the people at the address and that they were very nice. Comforting words when you are not sure what the people or accommodation will be like. Wendy also wanted to hear about my trip.

The accommodation here is very nice and comfortable. They served me tea and wanted to talk and talk. They let me know that they like Americans.

Breakfast at 8:00 Am and then off by about 9 to my next destination Enkhuizen South East and on the Eastern coast.

Love to the Fam, all is well!

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