I went out to the cinema with Herman tonight to see Rules of Engagement. It was a nice, undemanding film: just what I needed.
Most of my shopping is now done. Birthday and Christmas presents have been purchased, and the dreaded sorting through old clothes, shoes and personal possessions has begun, in preparation for my return to the States.
The longer I’m here, the more I realise the importance of identity, knowing and accepting who and what you are, and not turning your back on the environment that shaped and formed you.
Amsterdam is truly a wonderful place, and I’m proud to be Dutch, in spite of all the minor annoyances of the place. Society here is incredibly civilized; it’s just a shame that the smoking policy is so backward.
I will feel very melancholic to leave Amsterdam at the end of this trip, even though I’m looking forward to seeing Sarah again more than anything. It’s been home to me for so long now.
Tomorrow, I have to put together a document for work, transfer my GSM phone to my ex-girlfriend, open a new high interest bank account for my savings, and perform numerous other errands.
I don’t have much time left now. Tuesday will see me at the dentist for a major overhaul, and much of Wednesday will be spent rushing around, putting my belongings back into storage.
Then comes Thursday, which is, of course, the day I return home. Home is an interesting concept. I’ve come to realise that even this is relative in today’s age.