We said good-bye to Haarlem as we headed south towards Leiden, ducking under the low bridges and waiting for a few that needed to be lifted for us. The car and pedestrian traffic patiently waited as we glided past, many acknowledging us with a wave. The bells of Bakenesse tower played a farewell tune. All is well in our life.
We took with us memories and awe of a city so filled with history, culture and surprises. We were able to live in the very soul of the city next to the old weigh house, the prime spot for hundreds of years. We could have spent much more time in Haarlem, but we need to continue our journey south: we are already behind schedule.
Last evening we had our first dinner guest aboard our newly refitted Zonder Zorg. My cousin El who had spent most of her family life in Haarlem, but now lives just north of the city, came and we shared a delightful time. She brought a boat warming gift of ivy, durable like the Dutch in that it can survive indoors and out in changing circumstance. It is little touches of kindness and love like this that make our barge a home.
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