Exploring Utrecht

On our final day in the Netherlands, we decided to explore the city of Utrecht, which prior to this trip, we had only stopped in the train station.  We were both struck by how amazing, cute, thriving, and enchanting this city was!  Why did we never visit this city before??  Well, better late than never, and it was an excellent choice for our last adventure, before departing the next day.

We loved how the main canal that runs through the city was different than the ones in Amsterdam, with the fact that there is a ledge/walkway that runs along the border of the water.  You can see in warmer weather, it would be enjoyable to dine outside down there!

We went for a walk towards the big church tower you see in the picture.  The streets reminded us of a fusion between the big city of Amsterdam and the small-city charm of Kampen.  Of course, lined with lots of bicycles!

We stopped for lunch in a delightful cafe, where we reflected on the trip, and most recently, on Brant's successful promotion from the day before.

Do we look tired?  We were tired -- but still smiling!  Such a great trip!!

After a brief walk through of the old church, we decided to visit the Museum Speelklok, which is deemed as the "most cheerful museum in all of Holland."  We had to agree!  Essentially, it is a museum filled with self-playing musical instruments, street and fairground dance organs, music boxes, clocks, and a wide assortment of other impressive artifacts!  It was so much fun, charming, enchanting and the perfect way to wind down our trip.

Our insightful tour guide, who graciously did the tour in Dutch and English for our benefit!

This was a music box that, when playing, this acrobat moved according to the tempo of the music.  It was cool! 

Each one of these boxes had intricate details, many with little figurines who would move to the music being played.  It was in these moments where I equally wished my kids were there to see it, and glad they weren't (so they wouldn't be tempted to touch everything)!

We saw many of these large street organs in Holland a few years ago, specifically at Keukenhof (the tulip park and exhibition), blasting away and bringing wonderful cheer to the already cheery scene.

This marvelous instrument is a "Violina", which is a combo of a self-playing piano and three real self-playing violins at the top operated by a combination of the circular rotating 'bow' and the pneumatic fingers pressing the strings.  This instrument was made for the 1910 world's fair in Brussels.

This was the grand "dance hall," showcasing a variety of enormous dance organs.  Our guide sampled a few of them, and the music completely filled the room with sounds of a full orchestra (also at full volume) - it was amazing to think this used to be how people provided music at large events and parties!  

This was definitely my favorite organ, mainly because of the pop music he had playing from it.  What became more entertaining was when Michael Jackson's, "Thriller" began to play.  At this time, a group of tourists from China came through, and began pulling up my father-in-law, and soon after, my mother-in-law, to pose in pictures with them.  It was hilarious!  I'm not sure they found it as hilarious as we did, though; they were still good sports about it!

I liked watching this clock: at the very top, the sailboats would move across the water at certain chimes.  The details, though, on these clocks - you just don't see them quite like this anymore (you know, cause I'm an expert!).  They were quite impressive.

Several artifacts that were all self-playing instruments to one degree or another.  There were rows and rows of these cases to look through.

Close up view of the bell tower mechanism that creates the music.   

What a pleasure it was to share this trip with Brant's parents!  We will cherish this memory forever! 

My love, who followed the calling on his heart, to pursue this degree.  And because he is obedient to God, to honor his marriage and pursue all things in life with thoughtful conversation and prayer, together, we made a life-changing, wonderful choice to move across the world for a season we will never forget.  I can't wait for us to return to "our home away from home" again and again!!  

Brant's VU Promotion

On November 30th, we officially arrived to the final point of Brant's doctoral degree completion, as well as the main reason behind our trip to Europe.  Our fancy clothes had survived the journey overseas in suitcases, and around Europe, and were finally ready to be donned for Brant's promotion at the Vrije Universiteit (VU).  From houses, hotels, trains and cars, our community arrived at the VU for this momentous occasion.

Brant, with the bust of Abraham Kuyper, the founder of the VU, a theologian, a former prime minister of the Netherlands, as well as a prominent figure in Brant's research for his dissertation. 

Martha, Dale and me, all dolled up and ready for the show -- er, I mean, the defenses, to begin!

Our friend, and fellow PhD candidate, Clay Cooke, was also in attendance to give his defense that day, and his took place a few hours prior to Brant's.   It was helpful to see him go through the process in advance, being able to better understand what Brant would be going through shortly after.  Brant was also a paranymf (groomsmen) for Clay, who returned the favor when it was Brant's turn to defend.  

Brant and our friend, Tom, were the paranymfs for Clay, and they all sort of played musical chairs and swapped places when it was Brant's turn.

Clay did a great job and we were thrilled to watch him be awarded his diploma from the VU.  Afterwards, the group was invited to partake in a catered lunch, which was a great time to connect with friends we haven't seen in awhile, and sort of take a deep breath and relax, before it was Brant's turn to defend.  (Note: by "relax", I was referring to everyone except for my husband, who was gearing up and appropriately focused!).

Through the wonders of modern technology, and great cell phone plans, Clay was able to use my phone to call his wife back in North Carolina, who wasn't able to make it.  We sure did miss you, Bekah!!

We took a short walk around the building together, before his defense.  The weather was fierce that day (heavy rain and winds), so we remained indoors, but it was nice to move around a bit.

It really is quite a large auditorium...so when this is the size of the audience, perhaps you feel more at ease??  Regardless, everyone pictured here (with a few who were not seated yet), means a great deal to us, and it was a blessing for both of us to have them all here, honoring this occasion.  

At the start of the ceremony, the faculty comes marching into the room, with the defender and his paranymfs, bringing in the rear.  You know they are coming by the sound of metal rings jangling on a large staff of the woman who you see at the front of this picture (in English, she is called "the beetle" --- I don't really know what to compare her to, sorry!).

Can you see the jangles? 

Blurry, but there he is!  We are actually here!

Being introduced by the head of the faculty.

The panel of promoters, co-promoters, and learned opponents, who have read and studied Brant's dissertation.  

He had about 10 minutes to give a synopsis of his work for the people in the audience, before beginning the official defense with the faculty on stage.

It was amazing to watch and listen to the back and forth between questions and answers, as these fellow scholars were discussing Brant's personal work with him.  What an honor!

After 1 hour has passed, the "Beetle" comes and announces that an hour is up, and the discussion comes to a halt.  At that time, the entire faculty exits the room, with Brant following at the rear.  After they have discussed their decision in another room, the entire party returns for another processional back up to the stage.

Here, Brant is being informed of the faculty's decision to grant him his degree. 

They sign the degree on the spot!

Brant's primary mentor, Dr. George Harrink, had some beautiful words to share about Brant, as he presented his diploma to him.

This diploma is no small piece of paper (which made packing it back into a suitcase to take home a fun challenge)!

After his highly successful promotion, we had a coffee reception, before heading to the van der Kooi's for a dinner celebration!

Our dear and special friends, Nelleke Hoekstra and Reinier de Wit, with whom we stayed with in Kampen on this trip.  What a joy it was to share this day with them, to make new memories together, and to share life with them forever, no matter the distance!

Brant and George, from the TU in Kampen. Every single time George would meet with Brant, he would begin their meetings asking how the children and I were doing in Kampen, and if he could do anything for us. So much love and care for our family!

Dr. Cooke, Dr. Mouw and Dr. Himes

What a special family we have, from all over the world. 

Brant's mentors who have been more like father-figures to him throughout this journey. Dr. Harrink and Dr. van der Kooi from the Netherlands, and Dr. Mouw from Fuller. Such an honor to be able to see these four men as colleagues now. 

So very special to have our friend, Juergen, attend Brant's promotion! .

Such special, special people and friends -- more like family -- in this picture. Thank you Tom and Aline Waalewijn-Huizinga for being such a big part of the promotion and celebration, along with Clay Cooke (and Bekah, in spirit!).  We love you all!

Officially married to Dr. Dr. Brant Himes.  So very proud of this man!!

With all of these wonderful people in tow, we went to the van der Kooi's home, where they hosted an amazing dinner to celebrate these two promotions!  We were so grateful for their generous hospitality, and warm hosting they showed all of our friends.  How rich and blessed we are, to have family all over the world.  It truly was an amazing day!

Koln, Germany: Christmas Markets, round 2!

When we were given the date for Brant's doctoral promotion, realization struck us instantly that we would be in Europe during the famed Christmas markets, and we did not hesitate to book a 2 night stay in Koln, Germany for a return trip.  We had visited these particular markets two years ago with the kids, and it felt like a far-off dream that we would ever be able to go to them again.  Imagine my glee when we solidified our travel plans to include this special visit!

Train ride from Kampen to Koln.

Our hotel was located within the train station, which sits just outside the Dom Cathedral.  This is the view that greeted us, and it has remained vivid in my mind for two years.  

Pictures can't capture anything very well...but for some perspective - look at how small the people are!

Ready to show Dale and Martha what true Christmas cheer looks like!

Entrance to the main market (there are 7 spread throughout the city).  It was like we never left! 

Under the canopy of lights and the grand cathedral.

Introducing Dale and Martha to the beloved market scene.

The stage hosts a variety of musical guests daily/nightly.  It can become quite the hotspot at night, with all of the food, drink, music and merriment! ;)

So many selfies on this trip...oh well!

Exploring the gnome village -- we love how each market carries a unique theme.

I stopped the hustle and bustle of shopping and declared that it was time for us to partake in our first Christmas Market snack, which ended up being a fried potato pancake with applesauce.  Sooo good, and it helped get the ball rolling as we made our way around the marketplace, trying all the different goodies! 

Bundled up and having fun!

And now, about to have even more fun, thanks to the ghulwein (hot, mulled wine)! 

We didn't go ice-skating, but did enjoy watching others have their fun.

Details are everywhere.

I've always loved how dramatic this scene is.

Another shot of the canopy of lights - sort of mesmerizing and cozy while your under them.

On our second full day in Koln, we took a self-guided tour of the incredible Dom Cathedral (which we did during our first visit with the kids).   With 20,000 daily visitors, you manage to still feel small and alone, as you make your way around the groundfloor, taking in the relics, the history and the beauty of this place.

The details, including the tile art on the ground, were intricate and impressive.

This golden box is the resting place of the 3 Magi's bones.

Attempting to give perspective on the size of the people below.

I'm such a dwarf, compared to this structure!

It didn't take much convincing for Dale to invest in a new hat for the cutting winds, and wouldn't you know, he scored the same hat we bought for Brant at the markets two years ago!  How cute!

Delicious market sweet treat!

Just a simple shot of the "Angel Market."

We found the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf!  Originating from Southern CA, and this is the only location in all of Germany. The bathrooms had California culture decor, bringing us an odd sense of familiarity. 

We walked down the Rhein River to the "Maritime Market," which is full of life and good spirit!  

With all of the walking, and the stalls of food beckoning you with wafts of delicious aromas, we continued to graze a few more snacks.  Fresh crepes, with banana and chocolate.  My mouth waters just typing those words.

I'm pretty sure I was making silly noises to get these two to give me such beautifully wide smiles!  It was worth it, wouldn't you agree? 

Love, on the Rhein River.

It doesn't get more European and picture perfect than this! I love this stretch and all of its color and diversity.

So dynamic.

We made our way back to the hotel for a break from the cold, walking along the backside of the Cathedral.

We met up with some friends, who we were introduced to by good friends in Pasadena.  The Teutsch family  lives in the Netherlands, but have roots in Koln and happened to be in town on the same day we were there. We had our families get together when we lived there, and it was so fun to see them again, at the Christmas Markets of all places!

Pretty good, for a selfie without a selfie stick!  (Thank you, long arms!)

I *absolutely* was making silly noises to get these smiles!  I'm amazed they all keep me around, despite how I can potentially draw attention to our crew.

When our kids aren't present, we just keep taking pictures of US!

Two nights in a row we visited this booth, with the delectable Swiss fondue with tasty spirits, and two nights in a row, we hammed it up with this super cool guy -- so much so, that it took no convincing to get a picture with him!  He shared the same fondness for us, because we were from California, and he thinks that is the best place in the entire world (and he's never been).

As a group, we had several belts hand-crafted at this booth, where we were able to choose the leather, the buckle, and have it sized to fit.  A perfect souvenir! 

We bid goodnight to Dale and Martha, and stayed out later, enjoying the "night life" of the markets.  This included some tasty Kolsch German beer and a front row viewing of a terrible musical group, whose opening number was "Highway to Hell."  I found it hysterical, to see a huge crowd of happy, well-hydrated individuals, jumping and waving their arms in the air, as they sang along. 

Prost, Dr. Himes!

Our entertainment -- looks cool, doesn't it?  Yeah.  If only you had heard it.

On Sunday, we spent a few hours walking around, before the weather turned bad, which was fine because it was time for us to hop on the train and travel to Driebergen.  This would bring us to our final, and most important leg of our European adventures... stay tuned!