Though it was a long drive, we wanted to see Vannes, another charming walled town. We listened to a Rick Steves guide to Brittany on our drive and were glad we did, as it helped us know what to order for lunch at a local crepe place (and also what to do with the mugs that were on the table when we arrived- drink your cidre from them!). Maeve had a crepe filled with warm apples and cinnamon and topped with vanilla icecream. Now that's a lunch!
We were sufficiently fueled up, but it was really hot so we didn't last that long walking around town. I did make it into NafNaf though and took advantage of some summer sales! The kids passed out on the drive home, so the late nights of vacay had definitely caught up with them.
The kids loved our evenings at the beach so that was where we ended the day.
The day marked 10 years since we first arrived in Amsterdam to start this crazy adventure. A really big anniversary. Hard to put into words what these 10 years have meant to me, but I am filled with gratitude for the life we have made here. The healthy balance we have found with work and play. Raising our kids here is a joy as life, in general, feels really un-harried and easy. Living in a safe, peaceful suburb within easy biking distance to one of the world's most beautiful cities. Meeting interesting fellow expats and sharing this wild ride with them. We always tell people that we left when Obama was president, meaning that life felt good in the US, we were not leaving to escape anything. But we have watched, with heartbreak, from afar how much has changed since we have been gone and feel in our hearts that we are doing the best thing for our family by being here. Which is not to discount the beautiful lives others have created for their families in all parts of the world. But this is our place and I am so happy, still, to be here.
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