On Wednesday we took the tram out to visit Ruth and Karl on KNSM Island.  Ruth prepared a lovely brunch and we chatted on the terrace for quite a  long time.  Walked the whole length of the island.  A really nice place.  It is very narrow, so many buildings have water on both sides.  Stopped and talked to a guy who was so happy and proud of his home. 
Friday had dinner at a place we had been to 4 years ago that serves traditional dutch food.  Sat next to a couple from Los Angelus who did a bike trip.  Traveled 40 miles a day.  They were not experienced bikers and they were younger then us, but even with the flatness of the Netherlands, I don't think that is in our future.

Another festival started on Friday and goes on for over a week.  Grachtenfest has sites around the city with classical music being played, dancing, opera.  Many of the venues are free.  Saturday afternoon we attended 4 miniconcerts on the canals.  It was a very short walk from our apartment, and the weather was grand.  Ray took some pictures as you will see.  We ran into Ruth and Karl at two of the sites.  They  like free stuff too.  Later in the evening there was a tango performance which we attended also, but left early for ice cream. 

Usual Sunday started out with Mass...Father Murray hurry back from your vacation.  The priest today was dreadful.  Thank God for the darling toddlers in front and next to me to keep me entertained.  We have come to expect seeing the little guy in front of us.  He has been there all but one weekend that we have.  He just got a haircut, so he and Ray looked alike today.  I really look forward to seeing him. every week.

The day was lovely, so we walked down to the Amstel and just sat and watched all the boats.  Ray took quite a few pictures in a very short time.  I think I could live here.

Aug 7-8 Our day with Karl-Heinz & Ruth

Aug 8-11 Open air music festival & misc photos

Aug 12, 2012 A sunny Sunday in Amsterdam