Day Seven in Amsterdam


Generally, I don't include travel day stuff unless something eventful happens...

We got up around 8a, knowing our flight left around 1p, figuring we'd have plenty of time to take care of all the things we had to do before exiting Amsterdam (I'm writing this on the last leg of the trip, while we fly). We showered, got dressed and then began packing away everything. We had brought an extra suitcase that was basically empty on the way to the Netherlands, so it was simple enough to pack away all our purchases (it was still a little tight). Lola is a pro at packing and as she worked, she sent me to the store to buy some candy for Billie. We wanted to make sure she got a taste of the trip, even from home. I bought a ton of candy, because she's my kid! When I got back, we got it all packed away and were ready to roll.

We had debated taking the train to the airport, because we generally agree with the practice and it feels more authentic. However, we also didn't want to lug our luggage through the train station so decided an Uber was a better bet for the morning. Hasan picked us up and got us to the airport in 20 minutes and we walked up to the Delta counter at 11a sharp.

As I made small talk with the airline rep and handed over our paperwork, she asked for our negative covid tests. We didn't have any. I started panicking when she said they were required. We were directed to an attached hotel (the Sheraton, if you're curious) where rapid testing was available. Lola and I sprinted across the airport, scared at what might happen if we delayed. When we got to the testing site, we had to register and pay online, before getting swabbed. I was sweating bullets as we made our way back to the check in, where we would wait for an email with our results. 

As you may have guessed, we had negative results and made our flight right on time. The plane to Atlanta from Amsterdam was a bit crowded, but Lola and I were fine. She managed some good sleep on the way. I just watched some movies on the flight. We arrived at Atlanta and made it through customs no problem. And now, as I write this, we're an hour out of El Paso, our anniversary trip complete.

It was an amazing trip. Sometimes, in the rush of life, with jobs, kids, family, hobbies, etc, it's easy to not focus on your partner like they deserve. Taking a moment (or a week in this case) to make them feel special and important is such a good thing. I'm so thankful I was able to make this happen. We have another trip in March to Paris, but this trip was one I planned solo, paid for solo, and gifted to my wife. I'm a lucky man and she should know that's how I feel. Enough for now!

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