June 1, 2012
Today we really explored Ermelo. My aunt lives here in the providence of Gelderland. I was having a conversation with my mentor, telling him that he’s a huge part of why I am in Europe. He has been here multiple times and when he would teach world history, he would show pictures of the wonderful places he has been to. And as a 15, 16, 17, 18 year old i’d be amazed by him and the places. He looked so badass just immersing himself in a totally different culture. I loved him more for it. And that’s definitely one of the things I love about him. Nevertheless, we’re talking and he goes..”so that’s super awesome that you’ve been to Gelderland. Like, wouldn’t it be cool if you asked someone where they are from and they say, “Gelderland motherfucker.” So everytime I’m reminded that I’m in Gelderland, I think of him and how blessed I am to be experiencing all that I’m experiencing. All this beauty and wonder. I’m in love with this place and if I’m not back every year, I’m moving here soon! I can’t be content with knowing this place exists and I’m not here. Yesterday my auntie became a dutch citizen, we attended her ceremony. She’s an incredible woman! Strong and independent, badass! Taught herself how to speak dutch and swahili, makes me happy to be a Banda. Anyway, then we went out to a Japanese resturant with Um, or uncle Veen’s two daughters who live in Amsterdam(invited to party with them in Amsterdam) they are way funny and cool! It was a grand time, I really enjoyed myself. Today, I woke up at 12:30pm..took a shower, ate then slept again until 5pm..This jet-lag is killing meeeh! After I woke up, the boys and I went for a bike ride around Ermelo! I was again captivted by the beauty of this place! First of all, it’s SO green, everywhere you are surrounded by tall, old, green trees! I can’t describe be properly enough to do it justice, but because of the many trees, the air is fresh and clean and pure. It smells like clean air! The houses are all architecturally pleasing, made of white, brown, red bricks..Nothing is made of wood. And they all look different, they are small but are warm and inviting and cozy. By the sides of the roads, there are these red bright flowers in the middle of the tall grass! It’s beautiful! And I’m in love, I want it and need it. It’s funny because I have to constantly remind myself to not take too many pictures, to just enjoy the moment, drink it in and enjoy it. Because what happens is, you take 390 pictures in less than a week on your camer alone not including your phone. I want to see Europe more in my eyes than my camera….