Hestia's Trip, April 2009, day 1-8 finished version
Posted: Mon 18th May 2009 12:45 am
Everything else posted has been just a rough cut, here is a final version, everything up to the start of the meet & greets leading up to 4:20.
Feedback, please
Day 1, Wed April 8th, 2009
It was a dark an stormy morning! Dare I use it? Oh hell yah! Because it most certainly was. Dark, rainy, windy & semi-cold! Eueuwww! Dropping into Shiphol airport the weather didn't look too promising (so what) wait and see. Good weather usually follows me. So be a little more patient Hestia, let the Sun catch up with you! Off the plane and onto a train. Passing terrain getting ready to absolutely burst with spring. The air and earth smell pregnant wit a new coming blooming time. I had almost forgotten it, the smell of ending winter, My nostrils widen and pulse quickens. A-dam, here we come.
I'm so lucky. This time L. Is able to come for a week, just lovely, we always have such a good time together. He's a wonderful fellow and gets me when no one else can. I'm serious when I say that I don't have to play lotto, I've already won when I met an married L. So! Let's party babe, although it's only a week, we're going to make hay while the sun shines (as the old saying goes) While L. Isn't a smoker, that's OK, I don't drink but he will. So we each get out buzzes on.
First stop after central station was a gift shop to get a cheap pipe, then Picasso's. I had been told that Picasso's was the place to go for good vibes, orange bud, free breakfast and early opening. Well, I guess 1 out of 4 ain't bad! What a drag! Open early, sure. But why? No orange bud, but I tried another type, what kind I can't say, reminded me of lawn clippings. The bud tender had all the charm of a board! And no breakfast, despite a sign in the window advertising one. He made us feel like we were putting him out, but he didn't have any problem taking 10 Euro from me for crap weed. This place was so UN-cool I actually felt sorry for the toothless hooker.
Needless to say, we to the hell out of there and walked over to the Freeland coffee shop. Now this is more like it, good weed (LA confidential), good hot chocolate, Internet access, nice people willing to point us in the right direction, to the good taxies and what price not to pay over. While there I smoked a spiff with 3 very nice people from England and Australia. Happy 30th English!
Also told the bud tender that the rain would stop that day, starting tomorrow, nothing but Sun. He looked at me like I was out of my mind! More on this as we go along. Freeland is busier upstairs in the smoking area than down in the pure weed area.
Walked about a block to the taxi stand the bud tender had recommended and took a Mercedes taxi to the room we were renting in the Jordaan. Without the luggage, without the rain it would have been an easy walk, one we made several times through the week. But it being Cold, wet, and being unfamiliar with the area, not knowing the busses or trams yet, the extra was worth it to get right to the door. We rented a room in a private residence from a lady who rents her Son's old room to help make ends meet now that said son is out on his own. Nice room, opening onto a terrace on a canal. The only thing I might have changed about it would have been to have a toilet on the same floor, the shower was right there, but the john was up some steep, narrow stairs. But we can deal with it. it's a nice crash for two weeks.
After talking to the lady (Hennie) for a while and a warming cup of coffee, we wandered out into the drizzle again to a restaurant she recommended on the prinsengracht. She said it was a good lunch place, probably not the best for dinner. She was right. We got a window seat with a view of a canal and people walking in the rain and some good chicken vegetable soup with some hot tea. Good stuff on a cold day. Then we wandered back to the room and crashed out for a bit, to allow out bodies to adjust to the different day. When we left it was Tuesday morning, several house of flying later it was Wednesday and we were in a different country. Sleeping in coach can be difficult.
After our much needed nap & a much enjoyed pipe of the LA con from the Freeland c/s we started by sharing a cup of coffee with our landlord. Or at least I did. L took her up on the offer of a Heiniken. Talk somehow drifted to Jenever. The Dutch get upset if you mistake it for gin, they claim they are entirely different things. Gin from potatoes, Jenever from grain. Jenever comes in 3 grades, jounge Jenever, Oude Jenever which has some aging to it, and kornwein Jenever the old aged smooth stuff. L was introduced to the Dutch equivalent of a boilermaker. I don't know the spelling of the Dutch name, it comes out sounding like "cop shot", young Jenever chilled backed w/heiniken. It definitely caught L's attention.
We set out to explore in search of dinner. It's stooped raining HAHOO!! We wandered down Marnixstraat to Rozengracht, hung a left and followed the crowds to a more bustling area, where we were able to pick from several restaurants. We chose an Argentinean steak house to splurge and splurged on a nice steak w/ shrimp dinner. They had a resident cat who helped with any extra nibbles that needed to be disposed of. Amsterdam has some tough cats with attitude. This one's attitude was "feed me or else". It tried to take a chunk out of L when he didn't feed it fast enough.
Walking back after the feast, we stopped off at the Bronx coffee shop, since it was in the neighbor hood where we were staying. It was OK, I guess. I got a blueberry cheese, it was a fair buzz but a bit harsh on my throat. Also it was too hot in there for a comfortable visit. And "well just to be honest", we didn't feel the vibe in there. I' sure it's a nice enough place. But I just didn't stop in but the one time, and that was fine. Enough said about the Bronx, back to the room.
Couldn't figure out how to get the TV to work, too tired to mess with it much, tomorrow's another day. Just set on the terrace, had a few pipes of the blueberry cheese from the Bronx c/s -not bad. and called it a night.
Day 2, Thursday 4/9/2009
Day 2 started reasonably early, HOT DAMN I see sun peeking through the curtains. I don't want to waste a moment of the day! besides We are not the only ones renting space from this lady, the children of former customers are here as well, 2 boys, 2 girls all 20 something Canadians. So the first in the shower gets the hottest water . The parents are in a nearby hotel. The room comes with a Dutch breakfast, breads, cheese, a variety of cold meats, etc. Which suited L to a t, as for me, just pass the coffee and an ash tray and I'll be fine for breakfast.
After breakfast we go out on the terrace to feed the canal ducks leftover bread and to get a buzz from the la con and blueberry cheese mixed . Know What I think I'll start doing,. putting together all the GOOD smoke that way by the time 420 gets here I'll have a totally killer bag!!!! What a good idea !So we set out on foot to wander through quaint old streets toward the central district. Picked up an apple snack at a bakery along the way and wandered into Popeye's coffee shop. Took advantage of their Internet while there. Had some Kush to smoke while there. very nice high I would recommend it. And had hot chocolate! Then more walking about, playing tourist, oohing and awing at all the quaint architecture. Eventually the senses were overloaded and we could get on with our stroll. Down the street to the Freeland and the LA conn, which I really like, so I got a gram, a cup of tea and proceeded to light up. Ah, that's better. A fine high! A different bud tender today, but I told him the same spiel about how the weather would be perfect while I was here visiting. He was a dark haired man, he just gave me a blank stare. (I'm sure he's heard all this crapola before)
But just you wait, bud tender, you'll see. Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha
While here we spoke to a gentleman (rasta like) about reefer in the islands, etc. A very good talk, pity I don't recall much of it.
On the way out the door, I reminded the bud tender about the wonderful weather & how it was going to stay this way for as long as I'm in Amsterdam, he looked at me with that look that says "crazy American stoner"
Second stop on the coffee shop tour is my all time favorite shop, the 420. It's the first shop I visited upon my first trip to Amsterdam and I seem to be drawn there whenever I'm in town. Like a homing pigeon .Yes it's the same. It hasn't changed a bit in 2 years. Still the window seats, old cat and good dark wood. Perfect. I even remember my old routine. A cup of Lady grey tea, and a gram of Super Silver Haze, a good smoke, strong and long, as it ought to be. Got to chatting with the bud tenders and told them that I'd be in town for 2 weeks and also there for the 420, So everyone had better get used to seeing me quite often. They said "cool" Sat down in my favorite spot, the window area, and lit up An excellent high, very enjoyable indeed, rested and smoked for about an hour then hit the streets again.
There was a carnival set up in Dam square. It would be interesting to find out how they got the huge rides into place, given the narrow streets leading there. A monster Ferris wheel and possibly the tallest swing ride I have ever seen. The place was packed, not at all like my last visit, come to find out, people in Holland (Amsterdam) love carnivals and such. People were having a good time, what a hoot! Shame I'm such a chicken shit and wouldn't get on the Ferris wheel., but I figured I the long run, the people in Amsterdam would be much happier if I didn't get on and hurl on the ones below me, as I am prone to do things like that.
Left Dam square eastbound into the Red light district. Stopped at a cheese shop for a bit of cheese as we were feeling a bit peckish. Couldn't help but remember the Python sketch with John Cleese wandering into a cheese shop, but this one was fully stocked. At least with what interested me, medium Gouda, which I like a lot.
Had already seen girls in windows, well outside the district, from across a street. Being daytime, not all the windows were occupied, the first string definitely wasn't in place. I know they choose to do it, but it's still kind of sad that they feel that is what they have to do to get by.
stooped at the hill street blues for a quick high I bought a gram of jack herner -a good smoke( I had heard it was)
We also made it a few blocks north into Chinatown. Saw many interesting shop windows, and restaurant windows with once-feathered animals ready to be prepared for your dinner. Toured the big temple while we were there. Beautiful as expected.
After a quick walk through, just to say we had been there, we made our way back to our crash on foot. Took a quick nap to let the last of the jet lag go away, had a cup of coffee with the landlady and discussed going out to get a "Rice Table" at a local restaurant. To the room for a lite jacket and a pipe of the 420 bag-this smoke just keeps getting better and better....
We set off bravely, procuring "strip tickets" at the local cigarette shop, owned by the sister of the lady we rented the room from, rode a bus down to central station (we had been on our feet a lot and needed the break). Wandered east from there and caught a major street toward Dam square, eyes open for a likely spot to eat. Spotted people entering a likely looking place, An Indonesian restaurant filling up fast. They still had a window table available where we had a good view of the bustling street. I don't remember the name of the place, misplaced the business card I took, but it was good.
Most of the room seemed to be having a rice table of some sort. To elaborate, it is like having a buffet brought to your table. Several small dishes of various sorts brought to your table and left for you to eat at your leisure. I don't remember all of the names, but the spring rolls I recognized. They were the best I had ever eaten. The shrimp they had was good too.
After the meal, we walked it off following the crowd to Dam square. From there we went toward Liedesplein, stopping at the Dolphins coffee shop. I've been to the dolphins several times and it has never failed to impress me with its smoke, White Dolphins. Smooth smoke with a good clean high. Also love the decor, feels like I'm catching a buzz wit Jaques Custeau. On my first visit for my 420 visit, talked to an English couple. They showed me how to smoke up on a volcano, hubba, hubba. Now I know why flipper is always squeekin' & smilin'. By the way, we tried our first Loosa, mango/peach it was. Wow! What's in this stuff, rocked fuel and sugar?
Liedesplein was hopping on a beautiful evening. Acrobats, musicians and crowds of people out having a good time. One musician we remember was singing oldies rock, playing an upright bass and tapping a tambourine with his foot. He wasn't bad, but didn't have much of a crowd, so we stopped and listened from up close, parted with a couple of coins and applauded what he was doing, encouragement helps. Soon a crowd gathered and we wandered on. We walked back to the room from there, a bit long, but it was a nice night and I had a nice buzz.
Pestered the landlady into teaching us how to work the TV. We had figured out there were two remotes, didn't have the right sequence to press them. Also, for some strange reason, once everything was turned on you had to press 1, something I would never have guessed. Amsterdam television is a trip. And that's all I will say about it. So before going to bed, we sat out on the terrace, I had a coke light and a pipe (jack herner) , L had a Heiniken, not light. All right! Good night.
Day 3, Friday April 10th
Tourist day today. After the big Dutch breakfast and a big Dutch high. From the 420 bag. we got directions from Hennie were to pick up the tram to the museumplein. Wanted to go to the Rijksmuseum and see the Rembrants and such. Van Gogh museum is right there as well, Figured both in one day would be overdose on culture. The Rijksmuseum is being renovated, so everything is shoe horned into a smaller area Lots of nice antique silver, plenty of paintings and a couple of cases of antique weapons in the room with "Night Watch" Have seen the reproductions of Night watch and the Drapers guild many times. In person they are overwhelming. The people are all life sized. Seeing the Drapers Guild, L made a bad joke about the size of the cigar box that was on. (Drapers Guild is the painting used in boxes of Dutch Masters Cigars) (you know you are getting old if you remember tobacco ads on TV and remember live actors dressed to look like the painting singing the Dutch masters jingle to the camera)
After absorbing all the culture we could stand, we wondered over a few blocks and found Vondelpark. Barely stuck our noses in, then left for Leidesplein. Checked in at Boom Chicago to find out the deal on the St. Nick boat tours, then across the way to the Bulldog coffee shop. Yes I know. Total tourist trap, but there is something about this big noisy joint I like. Steps are a bitch, music is too loud and I've never been able to find the can! (toilet) But I don't give a damn! The smoke is good and the place has the best bartenderess I've ever seen (she was there on my last visit too) A dark haired young woman, who's quick as a wink and didn't miss a thing. She makes the best hot chocolate in Amsterdam. The bud tender is cool too, one you get him talking. He never led me wrong on my choice of smoke. And after my first visit always greeted me with a smile and a good word, maybe it's because we were both old farts. Everyone in here seemed happy and ready to party, no matter when I was there. I bought a pkg. of pre tolled spifs 4 different kinds in its own little cigarette package with a bulldog on it. That was a hoot!! Also a gram of the am haze- wow! and some of the most delicious orange juice-very refreshing fresh squeezed
They also had coin fed Internet access that let me check my e-mail and make a post on the forum. Price wasn't too bad for the convenience. A 2 Euro coin bought 20 min and plenty of time to read e-mail and post.
Then down the street to a little cafe on a side street for some lunch. Split pea soup and a meatball sandwich. Both very good. Pea soup seems to be a national dish....I understand why ...yummy. Then to Rembrandtplein, & the floating flower market which had been recommended to us. That day it was chock full of stalls selling flowers and bulbs. Hard to resist, but these were marketed to locals and we wouldn't have been able to get them back into the U. S. Never fear, there were many small shops selling all things touristy and Amsterdamy waiting to take your money in exchange for keepsakes of various quality. Delft ornaments anyone?
Back toward the central area and to Basjos. I had heard so much about Basjos, I can't wait to see. Thank you lemming for the Map online again, it has saved our asses. L reads a good map, also has a fine sense of direction. So he leads us there with no problem.
I like this place, Dark & cool inside, nice able & chairs outside if you want the Sun, Yes it's sunny and warm. P. S. There is also a nice clean Bathroom, just lovely. James, of the long dreads, is a super nice man. I introduce myself & L, we shook hands all around, I told him I was with the 420 forum and I hoped it was still OK for us to have a meet & greet on Sunday. I got a big smile and an affirmative answer, Bitchen. After this we got coke lites, big bottles and a gram of James's special smoke white cheese, wow! Good clean but heavy buzz. Strong head high. This was the best high so far by a long shot.
A bit more window shopping. A bit more touristy oohing and aahing at the buildings, a bite of supper at a place we passed, then back to the room and our little terrace on the canal to kick back and smoke up. I have several more fine smokes to add to my 420 bag this evening...
Day 4, Sat April 11,
Up by 7:00 -SUNNY I have my usual-coffee and a pipe or two of my mixed bag ,very nice. stone.. Started the day at the weekly neighborhood street market. We could see them setting up from the terrace. Lots of clothes, produce, knickknacks and cheese. Fresh stroopwaffels being made in front of our eyes, tantalizing smells. Bought some very sweet baby strawberries and a cinnamon roll to keep the waffle company in our stomachs. Leftover strawberries passed on to a nice lady sitting nearby walking a cute little dog. A fun hour poking around. Picked up a few gifts and some Gouda to take back with us. The cheese vendors were happy to make sales and freely distributing samples. They even threw in a jar of French mustard to go with the cheese.. Also found a beautiful long flowing shirt for a good price.
Another gorgeous day in Amsterdam. Plenty of sunshine in the forecast, as I reminded the people in the Freeland. I love the look on their faces when they see me, wouldn't miss it for the world. I start the day there wit a hot chocolate and a gram of AM Haze, a strong smoke, almost too strong, I was fine with it thanks to years experience smoking.
More walking and I make a pre lunch stop in at the 420. They have my Lady Grey tea ready and a choice of pre-rolled joints today because I'm feeling lazy ,to choose from. I've got them trained by now. They are good people and respond to their customer's needs and desires.
After a tasty lunch, don't ask me just what or where, we went into the touristy portion of the day. A genuine tourist tour of the keukenhof gardens. Out in the bulb growing area, the gardens are open 2 months a year, mid-march through mid may. If you are in the mood to explore it is a short train ride from Amsterdam, followed by a short bus ride. Or you can be like us and wimp out with the tourist tour. For not much more, you get a narrated bus ride from just off central station to the gardens, admission included. Door to door convenience, minimizes the chance of getting lost and ending up in Brussels by mistake. We drove through the fields of tulips, daffodils & hyacinths on the way there and back. Mind blowing color. The gardens were busy as might be expected, but there was enough area so it didn't seem crowded, there was room to sit and enjoy the flowers any time the mood struck. The lilacs struck us as especially pretty. They even had an old style Dutch windmill on the property that you could climb in. How cool is that? The view from the upper level was stunning. Gardens to one side, fields of flowers on the other. We walked out feet off and snapped many photos. On the way back the tour proved its worth, since we didn't have to worry about trying to change a bus for a train, but just rode in comfort back to town.
Picked up a bite to eat, stopped at the 420 -of course, gram of the 420 haze - good stone, another candidate for the party bag I'm thinking! then we wandered down to Dam square and just sat on the steps in the late afternoon sun, near the monument watching people go by. I'm soooo stoned, With the carnival the place was packed. Oh by the way what's with the pigeons - dive bombing feathered rats!!
Then wandered through the red light district just to see it when busy. 1st string out this evening. More windows populated. Boobies... boobies ... everywhere! Back to the room, bushed. Stopping only at a food store on the way to stock up on cookies, and candy for me, Heiniken for L. shoes off, feet up, pipe loaded ...awwwwwww life is good & good night.
Day 6, Sunday Apr. 13, Easter Monday Day 5, Sunday Apr. 12, Easter Sunday
After breakfast, and a nice steady buzz for me, we walked down the street to the bridge, crossed the canal behind us, and walked most of the way back. There was a Russian Orthodox church diagonally across the canal from our room, the landlady said they had good music and were only open on special days. On the Orthodox calendar this was still only Palm Sunday. Stopped in for a while, standing room only, no pews at all. Caught a word here and there in Dutch accented Russian, but the music was fabulous.
Walked to the central area via a different route, discussed what to do. Since L. wouldn't be around for the St. Nicholas boat tour, we decided to take one of the big tour boats together. Boarded just outside central station. Can see why the St. Nicholas people don't like the big boats, they are almost too big to make the turns. Still a fun and interesting interlude.
Ate at a sidewalk cafe next to where we caught the tour the day before, it had caught our eye and the smell had caught our attention then. Then in the word of one of L.'s old coworkers, we ran our traps. Translated from engineer speak, we mad the rounds of our favorite coffee shops. 420 of course, and probably one other on the way to the Freeland, where we had to rub it in about the weather again. also scored a gram of S. S. H. -not bad a little bit dry -but not bad. Next to the Freeland is a shop with interesting sweets and sandwiches. We had to make a raid there for munchies. chicken sandwiches and chocolate. waffles On the way back to the room from there, L. had to try one of the green metal pissoirs just to be able to say he had done so. (yes I have a photo) returned to the room around 8 or so. And put our feet up Odd how about 10 miles a day will make your feed hurt. Weird, Ain't it. Munchies, TV, a buzz and bed.
Open our eyes to another sunny day in Amsterdam scurry up stairs and beg a early cup o Joe from Hennie . Creep back down and hit the terrace for an early morning eye opener.. .pipe me up scottie...... For most of the Dutch, Easter Monday seems to be a bigger holiday than Easter itself. Probably because it is a bank holiday and most of the stores are closed. Day started with a bigger than normal breakfast. Two, count'm two types of quiche, all the breads, cheeses and meats of previous breakfasts and a number of other interesting eatables. The parents of the kids staying in the other room were there as well as the landlady's son and his girlfriend. After the meal, once the parents left, we sat with the boys on the terrace and rolled up. Discussed the weed in B. C. and how good it is said to be there. we all had a great visit and I sent them off with a mondo buzz,
Have a good day kiddies.
This is L's last day in town, his plane leaves in the morning. So we planned to spend the day wandering around town. First to Vondel park, where we had barely entered previously. A beautiful place, even though it was undergoing renovation. Large areas were fenced off, being re-landscaped. The concession area was still open. Park was busy, full of people enjoying their
day off. We stooped and had drinks there just letting the day roll past -time is going to fast, too fast. time please slow down..... tomorrow comes to soon!
From there we wandered out a side entrance of the park and picked up a tram for Dam square at the Museumplein. Looking at the lines at the museum we were glad we had gone earlier in the week.
Had to visit Basjoe's again and find the Old Amsterdam. And the 420, hadn't been there yet today. And an almost obligatory jaunt through the red light district for L to get an eyeful before leaving. He says the first string was definitely on display.
Hit the Grey Zone, finally found it. Not that it was ever lost, just managed to walk by it earlier this trip. My last time in A'dam it was so packed I couldn't ever get in. This time it was just me, the Bud tender and one other guy. L. took a walk while I spent some time there. Near the Grey zone is a statue over the canal. Next to it are benches. L. Walked until a space opened then sat and watched the tourists snapping pictures of the statue and the canal.
First smoke I tried was a gram of Sleezak, very nice! An active buzz, definitely an eye opener. While sitting there I got to talking to the bud tender. A very knowledgeable young man who beguiled me with tales of bud new and old strains. In other words the kid knew his shit. thanks young brother..
After about half an hour I wandered out and found L wandering back to collect me. We went on our way back toward the room, and found a nice little restaurant with tables next to the canal, so the wait staff had to cross the street to serve the customers. We found a table with a view and had a bowl of pumpkin soup and some good dark European bread while watching the boats go by. Wondering if the big tour boat and the little local boat would manage to avoid each other and watching a couple of laughing young oriental girls in a pedal paddle boat totally out of control, bouncing off of the canal walls enjoying themselves. Then back to the room, a last smoke out on the terrace and a last night together for a week...... sigh!!
Day 8, Tuesday April 14th.
L leaves today, 10:00 am flight. Last evening we asked our host to set the alarm clock early enough for us to get up and catch a train from central station to the airport. Lucky for us, she wouldn't hear of it and insisted on driving us to the airport. Bless her!
She could have saved herself some work by not setting the alarm clock, I have a built in alarm, I was wide awake and smoking a pipe on the terrace by 5:00a.m.! Just bundled up and watched Amsterdam come to life with the rising of the sun. So Fine!!! got L up at 6 and he got ready to go back home, we've had a wonderful experience together in A-dam. Neither of us will ever forget. I'm a bit hazy at times,( what else is new.) So we all load up in the landladies little red Opal and zoom to the airport, and I do mean zoom. She totally tightened my pucker string, lets just say. L was to tight that when he unfolded from the car I am sure that I heard him squeak. So with lots of kisses and good wishes, we put him on the airplane and let him go home, Shit! I already miss his tall hairy self.
Well, back to the house, and after a couple of cups of coffee, also a excellent buzz-up, I mixed some cheese with SSH -WOW. the sun calls my name. And I answer back. So off I go. I start walking toward central station area. Along the way I stop in the paradox c/s. I hunted it down with my trusty map. I like this place, the vibe was cool, the music was Latin and not too loud. The bud tender is most nice. After talking a bit, I said " I want a nice buzz to walk me around town with a smile on my face" So a nice Jamaican smoke was suggested. It was just the early day buzz I was hoping for, also it was just 5 Euro a gram. Paradox seems to care about the weed you need. And not so much the highest priced item. What a refreshing change.
I don't mean to say anything bad about the majority of c/s in A-dam, but they like to sell the money makers if they can.( Hell that's just business). But it was still a refreshing in my memories of the c/s. So after working up a good buzz, I'm off again into the Sun. I'm just walking around and looking. What a place to be! I'm charmed by this city. It's a place that calls to you to walk and wander about, peeking in store front windows, watching the dappling of the sun in the water of the canals.
Then all of a sudden, I'm in Dam square. Does every street lead to Dam square? It certainly seems as if it does! Well, well, well, now that I'm here I might as well get something to eat. Wok to Wok, oh yeah! Chicken with green curry & rice. Not bad, not bad at all. After inhaling my Chinese food-, look, a bakery next door. And a chocolate croissant is calling my name .(get your ass over here and eat me)
Fortified once again, I head for the 420 and a cup of Lady Grey and a gram of whatever is best. Along the way, I stop and buy some beautiful scarfs 3 for 10 Euro. These always make great gifts for the ladies.
Ah, the 420 beckons me in, hello everyone, Yes the usual please. I'll be in my usual seat by the window. Yes a gram of the blueberry sounds good, thank you. I sit back borrow a bong take out my pen and note book and continue my story. 1 ½ hours later my bong is empty (twice) and my tea cup also empty (twice) and 3 pages of notes taken. It's time to go. Bye, bye, see you tomorrow, nice 420 people.
Next stop Basjos. I saunter through the door, walk up to the bar say "hey" to James. He smiles back and I say gimme my usual James honey. A coke lite & a gram of James special White cheese 12 Euro a gram I think. Outside to sit into he sun! Sigh!
Sitting next to me is a young fellow originally from California. He has lived in A-dam for 13 years. He too writes. Travel yet! Go Amsterdam or something like that.
So he and I sat in the sun, he rolled up a big one ,& we worked up a monster buzz and spoke of life waxing almost poetic with each other, speaking about life being like threads twisting and turning , bunching then separating again and again, over and over. Never stopping but sometimes making you wait while the untangle. Just bull shitting while watching Amsterdam roll by. This was great, but time to go. I get stiff if I sit too long, age and bad joints sucks!
Oh crap, I almost forgot to drop by Freeland and talk about the sunshine. I just love the look on their faces when they see me! Wouldn't miss it for the world. Walking in the door I get the reaction I was hoping for, big eyes and a grin. A hot chocolate and a gram of Am Haze, a strong smoke, almost too strong. I was fine with it, but I've been smoking a long time. A nice visit as usual, but I think I'll start heading back toward the room. It's been a long good day, but enough is enough
On the way back I spy a corner grocery store and get a big bottle of coke lite and assorted chocolate munchies. Back in again, I go to the kitchen, get some fresh brown bread with a brilliant medium gouda and head for the room, turn on the radio and take my goodies out on the terrace. Munch, munch, buzz, buzz. A hot shower followed and good night to all.
Day 9, Wednesday April 15th.
A good night's sleep, shower, 4 cups of coffee and a nice smoke on the terrace blueberry from the 420. New lodgers in the other room, a young couple from New York, America, the Bronx to be exact. They are in Europe for their honeymoon and just came from Paris. They are smokers, too.
After breakfast we all went out to the terrace and got lit. I also gave them a pipe I had extra. It's what they use back home. Also some reefer to use in it to get them started. Welcome to Amsterdam.- they're soooo cute!
And then I'm ready to hit the road! So I head towards the Paradox and get some of their purple Haze, a great smoke, good high. Right price too, somewhere around 8 or 9 Euro a gram. After that I went towards the Dam. Stopped by the Grey Area and got some Chockolope here, a good buzz and it tasted pretty good too! Talked to a young head from around Chicago, had been traveling through Europe for about a month so far. He said he was having a Blast! He had some cheese going in a bong so we hit on his fore a spell ,than we hit on some of my Chockolope too. A really good buzz.... Well time to be moving on so I
.
Left there walking again and had a sudden case of the munchies. Fortunately I remembered a food shop next to the 420 and so moved in that direction. I am glad I remembered this place, good pizza (ham & cheese) and also had a chocolate waffle with nuts and whipped cream. Good and filling,
Feeling much refreshed I pop next door to the 420 and have my usual Lady Grey tea and SSH. Go to my window seat, lit up and did some writing on my article. A good visit as always,. they take good care of me. Looking at the time I see it is already 5:30, so I guess that I need to get moving. The landlady is cooking Dutch tonight and I can hardly wait. So off I go, making sure that I stop at the Freeland on my way back, I just thrust my head in the door, laugh wickedly and say "Look! It's Sunny". Give me another day or so and I'll have these poor Bastards flinching, ha, ha, ha! Life is good., sick but good.
Back to the room by 6:00, scored a cup of coffee and hit the terrace for a buzz up. You ought to see my 420 bag! It's growing by the day! At 6:30 I am called up to eat. Yeah, I'm starved!
It was fresh tortulini stuffed with ham, served with a gorgonzola cheese sauce filled with chopped ham. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top. Brilliant! It was rich and smooth, an excellent meal, made better by sitting at the table watching the busy Amsterdamers hurry home from work. Thank you landlady, you are a dream come true! She even does laundry
After dinner, more strong Dutch coffee and cookies. With sitting and talking and watching TV. Then off to bed, after a sit on the terrace with a pipe or two of soothing smoke. tomorrow is the start of the meet & greets, Old Amsterdam and Soulrider. So I must gets me beauty Z's.
Feedback, please
Day 1, Wed April 8th, 2009
It was a dark an stormy morning! Dare I use it? Oh hell yah! Because it most certainly was. Dark, rainy, windy & semi-cold! Eueuwww! Dropping into Shiphol airport the weather didn't look too promising (so what) wait and see. Good weather usually follows me. So be a little more patient Hestia, let the Sun catch up with you! Off the plane and onto a train. Passing terrain getting ready to absolutely burst with spring. The air and earth smell pregnant wit a new coming blooming time. I had almost forgotten it, the smell of ending winter, My nostrils widen and pulse quickens. A-dam, here we come.
I'm so lucky. This time L. Is able to come for a week, just lovely, we always have such a good time together. He's a wonderful fellow and gets me when no one else can. I'm serious when I say that I don't have to play lotto, I've already won when I met an married L. So! Let's party babe, although it's only a week, we're going to make hay while the sun shines (as the old saying goes) While L. Isn't a smoker, that's OK, I don't drink but he will. So we each get out buzzes on.
First stop after central station was a gift shop to get a cheap pipe, then Picasso's. I had been told that Picasso's was the place to go for good vibes, orange bud, free breakfast and early opening. Well, I guess 1 out of 4 ain't bad! What a drag! Open early, sure. But why? No orange bud, but I tried another type, what kind I can't say, reminded me of lawn clippings. The bud tender had all the charm of a board! And no breakfast, despite a sign in the window advertising one. He made us feel like we were putting him out, but he didn't have any problem taking 10 Euro from me for crap weed. This place was so UN-cool I actually felt sorry for the toothless hooker.
Needless to say, we to the hell out of there and walked over to the Freeland coffee shop. Now this is more like it, good weed (LA confidential), good hot chocolate, Internet access, nice people willing to point us in the right direction, to the good taxies and what price not to pay over. While there I smoked a spiff with 3 very nice people from England and Australia. Happy 30th English!
Also told the bud tender that the rain would stop that day, starting tomorrow, nothing but Sun. He looked at me like I was out of my mind! More on this as we go along. Freeland is busier upstairs in the smoking area than down in the pure weed area.
Walked about a block to the taxi stand the bud tender had recommended and took a Mercedes taxi to the room we were renting in the Jordaan. Without the luggage, without the rain it would have been an easy walk, one we made several times through the week. But it being Cold, wet, and being unfamiliar with the area, not knowing the busses or trams yet, the extra was worth it to get right to the door. We rented a room in a private residence from a lady who rents her Son's old room to help make ends meet now that said son is out on his own. Nice room, opening onto a terrace on a canal. The only thing I might have changed about it would have been to have a toilet on the same floor, the shower was right there, but the john was up some steep, narrow stairs. But we can deal with it. it's a nice crash for two weeks.
After talking to the lady (Hennie) for a while and a warming cup of coffee, we wandered out into the drizzle again to a restaurant she recommended on the prinsengracht. She said it was a good lunch place, probably not the best for dinner. She was right. We got a window seat with a view of a canal and people walking in the rain and some good chicken vegetable soup with some hot tea. Good stuff on a cold day. Then we wandered back to the room and crashed out for a bit, to allow out bodies to adjust to the different day. When we left it was Tuesday morning, several house of flying later it was Wednesday and we were in a different country. Sleeping in coach can be difficult.
After our much needed nap & a much enjoyed pipe of the LA con from the Freeland c/s we started by sharing a cup of coffee with our landlord. Or at least I did. L took her up on the offer of a Heiniken. Talk somehow drifted to Jenever. The Dutch get upset if you mistake it for gin, they claim they are entirely different things. Gin from potatoes, Jenever from grain. Jenever comes in 3 grades, jounge Jenever, Oude Jenever which has some aging to it, and kornwein Jenever the old aged smooth stuff. L was introduced to the Dutch equivalent of a boilermaker. I don't know the spelling of the Dutch name, it comes out sounding like "cop shot", young Jenever chilled backed w/heiniken. It definitely caught L's attention.
We set out to explore in search of dinner. It's stooped raining HAHOO!! We wandered down Marnixstraat to Rozengracht, hung a left and followed the crowds to a more bustling area, where we were able to pick from several restaurants. We chose an Argentinean steak house to splurge and splurged on a nice steak w/ shrimp dinner. They had a resident cat who helped with any extra nibbles that needed to be disposed of. Amsterdam has some tough cats with attitude. This one's attitude was "feed me or else". It tried to take a chunk out of L when he didn't feed it fast enough.
Walking back after the feast, we stopped off at the Bronx coffee shop, since it was in the neighbor hood where we were staying. It was OK, I guess. I got a blueberry cheese, it was a fair buzz but a bit harsh on my throat. Also it was too hot in there for a comfortable visit. And "well just to be honest", we didn't feel the vibe in there. I' sure it's a nice enough place. But I just didn't stop in but the one time, and that was fine. Enough said about the Bronx, back to the room.
Couldn't figure out how to get the TV to work, too tired to mess with it much, tomorrow's another day. Just set on the terrace, had a few pipes of the blueberry cheese from the Bronx c/s -not bad. and called it a night.
Day 2, Thursday 4/9/2009
Day 2 started reasonably early, HOT DAMN I see sun peeking through the curtains. I don't want to waste a moment of the day! besides We are not the only ones renting space from this lady, the children of former customers are here as well, 2 boys, 2 girls all 20 something Canadians. So the first in the shower gets the hottest water . The parents are in a nearby hotel. The room comes with a Dutch breakfast, breads, cheese, a variety of cold meats, etc. Which suited L to a t, as for me, just pass the coffee and an ash tray and I'll be fine for breakfast.
After breakfast we go out on the terrace to feed the canal ducks leftover bread and to get a buzz from the la con and blueberry cheese mixed . Know What I think I'll start doing,. putting together all the GOOD smoke that way by the time 420 gets here I'll have a totally killer bag!!!! What a good idea !So we set out on foot to wander through quaint old streets toward the central district. Picked up an apple snack at a bakery along the way and wandered into Popeye's coffee shop. Took advantage of their Internet while there. Had some Kush to smoke while there. very nice high I would recommend it. And had hot chocolate! Then more walking about, playing tourist, oohing and awing at all the quaint architecture. Eventually the senses were overloaded and we could get on with our stroll. Down the street to the Freeland and the LA conn, which I really like, so I got a gram, a cup of tea and proceeded to light up. Ah, that's better. A fine high! A different bud tender today, but I told him the same spiel about how the weather would be perfect while I was here visiting. He was a dark haired man, he just gave me a blank stare. (I'm sure he's heard all this crapola before)
But just you wait, bud tender, you'll see. Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha
While here we spoke to a gentleman (rasta like) about reefer in the islands, etc. A very good talk, pity I don't recall much of it.
On the way out the door, I reminded the bud tender about the wonderful weather & how it was going to stay this way for as long as I'm in Amsterdam, he looked at me with that look that says "crazy American stoner"
Second stop on the coffee shop tour is my all time favorite shop, the 420. It's the first shop I visited upon my first trip to Amsterdam and I seem to be drawn there whenever I'm in town. Like a homing pigeon .Yes it's the same. It hasn't changed a bit in 2 years. Still the window seats, old cat and good dark wood. Perfect. I even remember my old routine. A cup of Lady grey tea, and a gram of Super Silver Haze, a good smoke, strong and long, as it ought to be. Got to chatting with the bud tenders and told them that I'd be in town for 2 weeks and also there for the 420, So everyone had better get used to seeing me quite often. They said "cool" Sat down in my favorite spot, the window area, and lit up An excellent high, very enjoyable indeed, rested and smoked for about an hour then hit the streets again.
There was a carnival set up in Dam square. It would be interesting to find out how they got the huge rides into place, given the narrow streets leading there. A monster Ferris wheel and possibly the tallest swing ride I have ever seen. The place was packed, not at all like my last visit, come to find out, people in Holland (Amsterdam) love carnivals and such. People were having a good time, what a hoot! Shame I'm such a chicken shit and wouldn't get on the Ferris wheel., but I figured I the long run, the people in Amsterdam would be much happier if I didn't get on and hurl on the ones below me, as I am prone to do things like that.
Left Dam square eastbound into the Red light district. Stopped at a cheese shop for a bit of cheese as we were feeling a bit peckish. Couldn't help but remember the Python sketch with John Cleese wandering into a cheese shop, but this one was fully stocked. At least with what interested me, medium Gouda, which I like a lot.
Had already seen girls in windows, well outside the district, from across a street. Being daytime, not all the windows were occupied, the first string definitely wasn't in place. I know they choose to do it, but it's still kind of sad that they feel that is what they have to do to get by.
stooped at the hill street blues for a quick high I bought a gram of jack herner -a good smoke( I had heard it was)
We also made it a few blocks north into Chinatown. Saw many interesting shop windows, and restaurant windows with once-feathered animals ready to be prepared for your dinner. Toured the big temple while we were there. Beautiful as expected.
After a quick walk through, just to say we had been there, we made our way back to our crash on foot. Took a quick nap to let the last of the jet lag go away, had a cup of coffee with the landlady and discussed going out to get a "Rice Table" at a local restaurant. To the room for a lite jacket and a pipe of the 420 bag-this smoke just keeps getting better and better....
We set off bravely, procuring "strip tickets" at the local cigarette shop, owned by the sister of the lady we rented the room from, rode a bus down to central station (we had been on our feet a lot and needed the break). Wandered east from there and caught a major street toward Dam square, eyes open for a likely spot to eat. Spotted people entering a likely looking place, An Indonesian restaurant filling up fast. They still had a window table available where we had a good view of the bustling street. I don't remember the name of the place, misplaced the business card I took, but it was good.
Most of the room seemed to be having a rice table of some sort. To elaborate, it is like having a buffet brought to your table. Several small dishes of various sorts brought to your table and left for you to eat at your leisure. I don't remember all of the names, but the spring rolls I recognized. They were the best I had ever eaten. The shrimp they had was good too.
After the meal, we walked it off following the crowd to Dam square. From there we went toward Liedesplein, stopping at the Dolphins coffee shop. I've been to the dolphins several times and it has never failed to impress me with its smoke, White Dolphins. Smooth smoke with a good clean high. Also love the decor, feels like I'm catching a buzz wit Jaques Custeau. On my first visit for my 420 visit, talked to an English couple. They showed me how to smoke up on a volcano, hubba, hubba. Now I know why flipper is always squeekin' & smilin'. By the way, we tried our first Loosa, mango/peach it was. Wow! What's in this stuff, rocked fuel and sugar?
Liedesplein was hopping on a beautiful evening. Acrobats, musicians and crowds of people out having a good time. One musician we remember was singing oldies rock, playing an upright bass and tapping a tambourine with his foot. He wasn't bad, but didn't have much of a crowd, so we stopped and listened from up close, parted with a couple of coins and applauded what he was doing, encouragement helps. Soon a crowd gathered and we wandered on. We walked back to the room from there, a bit long, but it was a nice night and I had a nice buzz.
Pestered the landlady into teaching us how to work the TV. We had figured out there were two remotes, didn't have the right sequence to press them. Also, for some strange reason, once everything was turned on you had to press 1, something I would never have guessed. Amsterdam television is a trip. And that's all I will say about it. So before going to bed, we sat out on the terrace, I had a coke light and a pipe (jack herner) , L had a Heiniken, not light. All right! Good night.
Day 3, Friday April 10th
Tourist day today. After the big Dutch breakfast and a big Dutch high. From the 420 bag. we got directions from Hennie were to pick up the tram to the museumplein. Wanted to go to the Rijksmuseum and see the Rembrants and such. Van Gogh museum is right there as well, Figured both in one day would be overdose on culture. The Rijksmuseum is being renovated, so everything is shoe horned into a smaller area Lots of nice antique silver, plenty of paintings and a couple of cases of antique weapons in the room with "Night Watch" Have seen the reproductions of Night watch and the Drapers guild many times. In person they are overwhelming. The people are all life sized. Seeing the Drapers Guild, L made a bad joke about the size of the cigar box that was on. (Drapers Guild is the painting used in boxes of Dutch Masters Cigars) (you know you are getting old if you remember tobacco ads on TV and remember live actors dressed to look like the painting singing the Dutch masters jingle to the camera)
After absorbing all the culture we could stand, we wondered over a few blocks and found Vondelpark. Barely stuck our noses in, then left for Leidesplein. Checked in at Boom Chicago to find out the deal on the St. Nick boat tours, then across the way to the Bulldog coffee shop. Yes I know. Total tourist trap, but there is something about this big noisy joint I like. Steps are a bitch, music is too loud and I've never been able to find the can! (toilet) But I don't give a damn! The smoke is good and the place has the best bartenderess I've ever seen (she was there on my last visit too) A dark haired young woman, who's quick as a wink and didn't miss a thing. She makes the best hot chocolate in Amsterdam. The bud tender is cool too, one you get him talking. He never led me wrong on my choice of smoke. And after my first visit always greeted me with a smile and a good word, maybe it's because we were both old farts. Everyone in here seemed happy and ready to party, no matter when I was there. I bought a pkg. of pre tolled spifs 4 different kinds in its own little cigarette package with a bulldog on it. That was a hoot!! Also a gram of the am haze- wow! and some of the most delicious orange juice-very refreshing fresh squeezed
They also had coin fed Internet access that let me check my e-mail and make a post on the forum. Price wasn't too bad for the convenience. A 2 Euro coin bought 20 min and plenty of time to read e-mail and post.
Then down the street to a little cafe on a side street for some lunch. Split pea soup and a meatball sandwich. Both very good. Pea soup seems to be a national dish....I understand why ...yummy. Then to Rembrandtplein, & the floating flower market which had been recommended to us. That day it was chock full of stalls selling flowers and bulbs. Hard to resist, but these were marketed to locals and we wouldn't have been able to get them back into the U. S. Never fear, there were many small shops selling all things touristy and Amsterdamy waiting to take your money in exchange for keepsakes of various quality. Delft ornaments anyone?
Back toward the central area and to Basjos. I had heard so much about Basjos, I can't wait to see. Thank you lemming for the Map online again, it has saved our asses. L reads a good map, also has a fine sense of direction. So he leads us there with no problem.
I like this place, Dark & cool inside, nice able & chairs outside if you want the Sun, Yes it's sunny and warm. P. S. There is also a nice clean Bathroom, just lovely. James, of the long dreads, is a super nice man. I introduce myself & L, we shook hands all around, I told him I was with the 420 forum and I hoped it was still OK for us to have a meet & greet on Sunday. I got a big smile and an affirmative answer, Bitchen. After this we got coke lites, big bottles and a gram of James's special smoke white cheese, wow! Good clean but heavy buzz. Strong head high. This was the best high so far by a long shot.
A bit more window shopping. A bit more touristy oohing and aahing at the buildings, a bite of supper at a place we passed, then back to the room and our little terrace on the canal to kick back and smoke up. I have several more fine smokes to add to my 420 bag this evening...
Day 4, Sat April 11,
Up by 7:00 -SUNNY I have my usual-coffee and a pipe or two of my mixed bag ,very nice. stone.. Started the day at the weekly neighborhood street market. We could see them setting up from the terrace. Lots of clothes, produce, knickknacks and cheese. Fresh stroopwaffels being made in front of our eyes, tantalizing smells. Bought some very sweet baby strawberries and a cinnamon roll to keep the waffle company in our stomachs. Leftover strawberries passed on to a nice lady sitting nearby walking a cute little dog. A fun hour poking around. Picked up a few gifts and some Gouda to take back with us. The cheese vendors were happy to make sales and freely distributing samples. They even threw in a jar of French mustard to go with the cheese.. Also found a beautiful long flowing shirt for a good price.
Another gorgeous day in Amsterdam. Plenty of sunshine in the forecast, as I reminded the people in the Freeland. I love the look on their faces when they see me, wouldn't miss it for the world. I start the day there wit a hot chocolate and a gram of AM Haze, a strong smoke, almost too strong, I was fine with it thanks to years experience smoking.
More walking and I make a pre lunch stop in at the 420. They have my Lady Grey tea ready and a choice of pre-rolled joints today because I'm feeling lazy ,to choose from. I've got them trained by now. They are good people and respond to their customer's needs and desires.
After a tasty lunch, don't ask me just what or where, we went into the touristy portion of the day. A genuine tourist tour of the keukenhof gardens. Out in the bulb growing area, the gardens are open 2 months a year, mid-march through mid may. If you are in the mood to explore it is a short train ride from Amsterdam, followed by a short bus ride. Or you can be like us and wimp out with the tourist tour. For not much more, you get a narrated bus ride from just off central station to the gardens, admission included. Door to door convenience, minimizes the chance of getting lost and ending up in Brussels by mistake. We drove through the fields of tulips, daffodils & hyacinths on the way there and back. Mind blowing color. The gardens were busy as might be expected, but there was enough area so it didn't seem crowded, there was room to sit and enjoy the flowers any time the mood struck. The lilacs struck us as especially pretty. They even had an old style Dutch windmill on the property that you could climb in. How cool is that? The view from the upper level was stunning. Gardens to one side, fields of flowers on the other. We walked out feet off and snapped many photos. On the way back the tour proved its worth, since we didn't have to worry about trying to change a bus for a train, but just rode in comfort back to town.
Picked up a bite to eat, stopped at the 420 -of course, gram of the 420 haze - good stone, another candidate for the party bag I'm thinking! then we wandered down to Dam square and just sat on the steps in the late afternoon sun, near the monument watching people go by. I'm soooo stoned, With the carnival the place was packed. Oh by the way what's with the pigeons - dive bombing feathered rats!!
Then wandered through the red light district just to see it when busy. 1st string out this evening. More windows populated. Boobies... boobies ... everywhere! Back to the room, bushed. Stopping only at a food store on the way to stock up on cookies, and candy for me, Heiniken for L. shoes off, feet up, pipe loaded ...awwwwwww life is good & good night.
Day 6, Sunday Apr. 13, Easter Monday Day 5, Sunday Apr. 12, Easter Sunday
After breakfast, and a nice steady buzz for me, we walked down the street to the bridge, crossed the canal behind us, and walked most of the way back. There was a Russian Orthodox church diagonally across the canal from our room, the landlady said they had good music and were only open on special days. On the Orthodox calendar this was still only Palm Sunday. Stopped in for a while, standing room only, no pews at all. Caught a word here and there in Dutch accented Russian, but the music was fabulous.
Walked to the central area via a different route, discussed what to do. Since L. wouldn't be around for the St. Nicholas boat tour, we decided to take one of the big tour boats together. Boarded just outside central station. Can see why the St. Nicholas people don't like the big boats, they are almost too big to make the turns. Still a fun and interesting interlude.
Ate at a sidewalk cafe next to where we caught the tour the day before, it had caught our eye and the smell had caught our attention then. Then in the word of one of L.'s old coworkers, we ran our traps. Translated from engineer speak, we mad the rounds of our favorite coffee shops. 420 of course, and probably one other on the way to the Freeland, where we had to rub it in about the weather again. also scored a gram of S. S. H. -not bad a little bit dry -but not bad. Next to the Freeland is a shop with interesting sweets and sandwiches. We had to make a raid there for munchies. chicken sandwiches and chocolate. waffles On the way back to the room from there, L. had to try one of the green metal pissoirs just to be able to say he had done so. (yes I have a photo) returned to the room around 8 or so. And put our feet up Odd how about 10 miles a day will make your feed hurt. Weird, Ain't it. Munchies, TV, a buzz and bed.
Open our eyes to another sunny day in Amsterdam scurry up stairs and beg a early cup o Joe from Hennie . Creep back down and hit the terrace for an early morning eye opener.. .pipe me up scottie...... For most of the Dutch, Easter Monday seems to be a bigger holiday than Easter itself. Probably because it is a bank holiday and most of the stores are closed. Day started with a bigger than normal breakfast. Two, count'm two types of quiche, all the breads, cheeses and meats of previous breakfasts and a number of other interesting eatables. The parents of the kids staying in the other room were there as well as the landlady's son and his girlfriend. After the meal, once the parents left, we sat with the boys on the terrace and rolled up. Discussed the weed in B. C. and how good it is said to be there. we all had a great visit and I sent them off with a mondo buzz,
Have a good day kiddies.
This is L's last day in town, his plane leaves in the morning. So we planned to spend the day wandering around town. First to Vondel park, where we had barely entered previously. A beautiful place, even though it was undergoing renovation. Large areas were fenced off, being re-landscaped. The concession area was still open. Park was busy, full of people enjoying their
day off. We stooped and had drinks there just letting the day roll past -time is going to fast, too fast. time please slow down..... tomorrow comes to soon!
From there we wandered out a side entrance of the park and picked up a tram for Dam square at the Museumplein. Looking at the lines at the museum we were glad we had gone earlier in the week.
Had to visit Basjoe's again and find the Old Amsterdam. And the 420, hadn't been there yet today. And an almost obligatory jaunt through the red light district for L to get an eyeful before leaving. He says the first string was definitely on display.
Hit the Grey Zone, finally found it. Not that it was ever lost, just managed to walk by it earlier this trip. My last time in A'dam it was so packed I couldn't ever get in. This time it was just me, the Bud tender and one other guy. L. took a walk while I spent some time there. Near the Grey zone is a statue over the canal. Next to it are benches. L. Walked until a space opened then sat and watched the tourists snapping pictures of the statue and the canal.
First smoke I tried was a gram of Sleezak, very nice! An active buzz, definitely an eye opener. While sitting there I got to talking to the bud tender. A very knowledgeable young man who beguiled me with tales of bud new and old strains. In other words the kid knew his shit. thanks young brother..
After about half an hour I wandered out and found L wandering back to collect me. We went on our way back toward the room, and found a nice little restaurant with tables next to the canal, so the wait staff had to cross the street to serve the customers. We found a table with a view and had a bowl of pumpkin soup and some good dark European bread while watching the boats go by. Wondering if the big tour boat and the little local boat would manage to avoid each other and watching a couple of laughing young oriental girls in a pedal paddle boat totally out of control, bouncing off of the canal walls enjoying themselves. Then back to the room, a last smoke out on the terrace and a last night together for a week...... sigh!!
Day 8, Tuesday April 14th.
L leaves today, 10:00 am flight. Last evening we asked our host to set the alarm clock early enough for us to get up and catch a train from central station to the airport. Lucky for us, she wouldn't hear of it and insisted on driving us to the airport. Bless her!
She could have saved herself some work by not setting the alarm clock, I have a built in alarm, I was wide awake and smoking a pipe on the terrace by 5:00a.m.! Just bundled up and watched Amsterdam come to life with the rising of the sun. So Fine!!! got L up at 6 and he got ready to go back home, we've had a wonderful experience together in A-dam. Neither of us will ever forget. I'm a bit hazy at times,( what else is new.) So we all load up in the landladies little red Opal and zoom to the airport, and I do mean zoom. She totally tightened my pucker string, lets just say. L was to tight that when he unfolded from the car I am sure that I heard him squeak. So with lots of kisses and good wishes, we put him on the airplane and let him go home, Shit! I already miss his tall hairy self.
Well, back to the house, and after a couple of cups of coffee, also a excellent buzz-up, I mixed some cheese with SSH -WOW. the sun calls my name. And I answer back. So off I go. I start walking toward central station area. Along the way I stop in the paradox c/s. I hunted it down with my trusty map. I like this place, the vibe was cool, the music was Latin and not too loud. The bud tender is most nice. After talking a bit, I said " I want a nice buzz to walk me around town with a smile on my face" So a nice Jamaican smoke was suggested. It was just the early day buzz I was hoping for, also it was just 5 Euro a gram. Paradox seems to care about the weed you need. And not so much the highest priced item. What a refreshing change.
I don't mean to say anything bad about the majority of c/s in A-dam, but they like to sell the money makers if they can.( Hell that's just business). But it was still a refreshing in my memories of the c/s. So after working up a good buzz, I'm off again into the Sun. I'm just walking around and looking. What a place to be! I'm charmed by this city. It's a place that calls to you to walk and wander about, peeking in store front windows, watching the dappling of the sun in the water of the canals.
Then all of a sudden, I'm in Dam square. Does every street lead to Dam square? It certainly seems as if it does! Well, well, well, now that I'm here I might as well get something to eat. Wok to Wok, oh yeah! Chicken with green curry & rice. Not bad, not bad at all. After inhaling my Chinese food-, look, a bakery next door. And a chocolate croissant is calling my name .(get your ass over here and eat me)
Fortified once again, I head for the 420 and a cup of Lady Grey and a gram of whatever is best. Along the way, I stop and buy some beautiful scarfs 3 for 10 Euro. These always make great gifts for the ladies.
Ah, the 420 beckons me in, hello everyone, Yes the usual please. I'll be in my usual seat by the window. Yes a gram of the blueberry sounds good, thank you. I sit back borrow a bong take out my pen and note book and continue my story. 1 ½ hours later my bong is empty (twice) and my tea cup also empty (twice) and 3 pages of notes taken. It's time to go. Bye, bye, see you tomorrow, nice 420 people.
Next stop Basjos. I saunter through the door, walk up to the bar say "hey" to James. He smiles back and I say gimme my usual James honey. A coke lite & a gram of James special White cheese 12 Euro a gram I think. Outside to sit into he sun! Sigh!
Sitting next to me is a young fellow originally from California. He has lived in A-dam for 13 years. He too writes. Travel yet! Go Amsterdam or something like that.
So he and I sat in the sun, he rolled up a big one ,& we worked up a monster buzz and spoke of life waxing almost poetic with each other, speaking about life being like threads twisting and turning , bunching then separating again and again, over and over. Never stopping but sometimes making you wait while the untangle. Just bull shitting while watching Amsterdam roll by. This was great, but time to go. I get stiff if I sit too long, age and bad joints sucks!
Oh crap, I almost forgot to drop by Freeland and talk about the sunshine. I just love the look on their faces when they see me! Wouldn't miss it for the world. Walking in the door I get the reaction I was hoping for, big eyes and a grin. A hot chocolate and a gram of Am Haze, a strong smoke, almost too strong. I was fine with it, but I've been smoking a long time. A nice visit as usual, but I think I'll start heading back toward the room. It's been a long good day, but enough is enough
On the way back I spy a corner grocery store and get a big bottle of coke lite and assorted chocolate munchies. Back in again, I go to the kitchen, get some fresh brown bread with a brilliant medium gouda and head for the room, turn on the radio and take my goodies out on the terrace. Munch, munch, buzz, buzz. A hot shower followed and good night to all.
Day 9, Wednesday April 15th.
A good night's sleep, shower, 4 cups of coffee and a nice smoke on the terrace blueberry from the 420. New lodgers in the other room, a young couple from New York, America, the Bronx to be exact. They are in Europe for their honeymoon and just came from Paris. They are smokers, too.
After breakfast we all went out to the terrace and got lit. I also gave them a pipe I had extra. It's what they use back home. Also some reefer to use in it to get them started. Welcome to Amsterdam.- they're soooo cute!
And then I'm ready to hit the road! So I head towards the Paradox and get some of their purple Haze, a great smoke, good high. Right price too, somewhere around 8 or 9 Euro a gram. After that I went towards the Dam. Stopped by the Grey Area and got some Chockolope here, a good buzz and it tasted pretty good too! Talked to a young head from around Chicago, had been traveling through Europe for about a month so far. He said he was having a Blast! He had some cheese going in a bong so we hit on his fore a spell ,than we hit on some of my Chockolope too. A really good buzz.... Well time to be moving on so I
.
Left there walking again and had a sudden case of the munchies. Fortunately I remembered a food shop next to the 420 and so moved in that direction. I am glad I remembered this place, good pizza (ham & cheese) and also had a chocolate waffle with nuts and whipped cream. Good and filling,
Feeling much refreshed I pop next door to the 420 and have my usual Lady Grey tea and SSH. Go to my window seat, lit up and did some writing on my article. A good visit as always,. they take good care of me. Looking at the time I see it is already 5:30, so I guess that I need to get moving. The landlady is cooking Dutch tonight and I can hardly wait. So off I go, making sure that I stop at the Freeland on my way back, I just thrust my head in the door, laugh wickedly and say "Look! It's Sunny". Give me another day or so and I'll have these poor Bastards flinching, ha, ha, ha! Life is good., sick but good.
Back to the room by 6:00, scored a cup of coffee and hit the terrace for a buzz up. You ought to see my 420 bag! It's growing by the day! At 6:30 I am called up to eat. Yeah, I'm starved!
It was fresh tortulini stuffed with ham, served with a gorgonzola cheese sauce filled with chopped ham. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top. Brilliant! It was rich and smooth, an excellent meal, made better by sitting at the table watching the busy Amsterdamers hurry home from work. Thank you landlady, you are a dream come true! She even does laundry
After dinner, more strong Dutch coffee and cookies. With sitting and talking and watching TV. Then off to bed, after a sit on the terrace with a pipe or two of soothing smoke. tomorrow is the start of the meet & greets, Old Amsterdam and Soulrider. So I must gets me beauty Z's.
really like your writing style thanks