John does Amsterdam

Burnt-red-bricks

2012-02-10T16:40:00.000+01:00

Gables, gables, gables:

2012-02-09T09:30:00.001+01:00

Ice skaters, on Princengracht:

2012-02-08T00:07:00.000+01:00

All of the Netherlands is literally freezing cold.

And it's supposed to stay that way for the coming days/weeks.

And many Nederlanders, are hoping for the beloved ice skating race: the Elfstedentocht.

Layers within the Jordaan:

2012-02-07T17:06:00.000+01:00

The Jordaan, in addition to being one of the most layered neighbourhoods of Amsterdam, is also one of the most joyous for me to immerse myself within. Bridges and canals snake their way over and through some of the loveliest assemblages of bricks and stones I've ever seen. The tiny canal houses of this area of the city, never cease to delight me with their layers of hidden–and often overlooked–riches.

This particular view can be found here–using an ultra zoom-lens.

Zoom-lenses enable me to uncover layers, of beautiful Amsterdam.

Tram 3: from Muiderpoort to Zoutkeetsgracht

2012-02-04T11:42:00.000+01:00

Making more books:

2012-02-03T12:13:00.000+01:00

All my life I have really loved books, magazines–printed materials in general. I never wanted to 'borrow' them from the library; I wanted them to be mine. So I could rip them, doodle in them, sort through and organize them–over and over again. I imagine, then, it only made sense for me to move to Amsterdam to work for the world's best architecture and design magazines. Who knew that life would take me to where I am, right now? I have just finished making and assistant editing/visual editing a new book, which really makes me happy. Making a book really is a time consuming task; and this is not my first. But this book, is the first book, where I really feel my presence in the book. I even wrote the introduction. Hours and hours of pouring over pictures and selecting only those few who deserved to be printed in editions of thousands. Countless days spend reading each page again and again–ensuring every word is perfect–that every sentence says what it says. I've learned to savor the essence of turning the page. And the pages in this book–well, a few of them–can be ripped and pulled out; encouraged even, through the aid of perforated pages along its spine. And while most would rather choose not to rip pages out of their brand new book, the book's designer actually encourages it. It is really fun, to do great things in the world, with those whom you admire.

A festive gable:

2012-02-01T20:22:00.000+01:00

Damstraat:

2012-01-30T07:25:00.000+01:00

Damstraat is one of those interesting streets in Amsterdam. Usually entering from the Jodenbreestraat (where its name is actually Nieuwe Hoogstraat), or directly from Dam Square, the street never ceases to disappoint–and I say this with many shades of meaning.

Cycling through this street is always somewhat of an adventure; tourists never seem to stay on the sidewalk, spilling into the street and causing for many 'ding-dong!'-s of bike bells, and the visual noise created by all the signs is overtly distracting. The collection of shops, stores, and long-forgotten-venues offer up everything any visitor to the city (or local, for that matter), could ever want: cheap-greasy deep-fried food, 2 Euro pizza slices, water bongs, magic mushrooms, marijuana, beer, cheap hotel rooms, prostitutes, wooden shoes (souvenirs!), the latest fashion-finds, used books and magazines, and even (my personal favourite) a bead-and-fabric shop; for all those buttons which need some cute-ass thread to, for instance, be sewn back on your coat.

The street represents everything–and yet nothing–of the city of Amsterdam.

De Waag

2012-01-27T16:53:00.000+01:00

The new, the improved:

2012-01-23T23:26:00.002+01:00

'The Colours of Amsterdam'
Amanda and I's Amsterdam colour centric collaboration.

Limestone and bright orange awnings.

2012-01-22T18:02:00.000+01:00

The gables of Amsterdam are a never-ending source of both fascination and inspiration–for me at least. Their designs flamboyant, their message clear, and their beauty timeless.

Eichenbach, Germany.

2012-01-21T23:10:00.001+01:00

I journeyed on a little get-a-way this weekend, to Germany.

Rolling hills, coniferous trees and fachhallenhaus-es abound.

Gables, and a lamp, in the Jordaan.

2012-01-19T08:03:00.000+01:00

Let's get all metaphorical:

2012-01-18T23:52:00.000+01:00

This photo was taken from here.
You would call this area of the city, the Negen Straatjes.

With an ultra-zoom lens, I captured three bridges in one photo.

Three bridges, spanning three of cities most stunning canals.

On the other hand, this photo was taken from here.
Even without an ultra-zoom lens, I captured a great distance, in one photo.

And with that, let's let the metaphor begin.

Taking in the view of great distances is really quite the difficult feat.
This task overtly-induces peering into the future, and often, looking back on the past.

There is a line from 'Sex and the City', muttered by Carrie Bradshaw, in season six:

'I wanted to be a writer, I made myself a writer.
I want a ridiculously extravagant pair of shoes, I find a way to buy them.'

Going after what you want in life can often be intimidating;
battling self-destruction, self-doubt, and self-esteem all come into play.

And there's that word again: self.

As I grow, I'm learning that I'm not so interested in the self.
My self, at least. Well, that's not 100% completely true.
I am indeed interested in myself.

Self promotion is, more specifically, something I'm not interested in.
It is not my end goal to be super-famous, super-rich.

I am only interested in developing my self, for the benefit of me.
I really want to master a skill-set, even if that skill set is wide-ranging.
And the great news is, I feel (as opposed to thinking), that the time has finally come.

I have a really great life here in Amsterdam, both personally and professionally.
I want to do great things in the world, all the while, reveling in the fact that life is so...
Fun, full of surprises and filled with love.
Love is, I'm convinced, what drives our desires.

I recently, and quite sternly, explained to someone of importance in my life:

'I am on a path. I'm not sure where that path is leading. But I know I'm destined for great things. And ever since I was young, I've been chasing what it is that I can't see–my future.'

Fortunately, many of the aspects of my future that I've been eternally chasing, have recently manifested. I feel as if my personal and profession lives are merging–which I'm ok with. I feel as if my roots here in North Holland have finally taken to the soil with a vigorous rigor, and that I can finally just...relax.

This doesn't mean that my permanent quest for creature comforts has been dampened since moving to the Netherlands–quite the opposite actually. I am always striving to bring comfort to my life; creature comforts, and mental comforts–they're all the same to me. I feel as if the last pieces of the puzzle of my life, at this moment in time, have finally fallen into place–my needs are more than accommodated, my wants are obtainable, and my future looks bright.

Westerkerk

2012-01-17T00:14:00.000+01:00

Surrealist reflections, in Amsterdam.

2012-01-16T00:08:00.000+01:00

Hidden worlds await within window reflections, for those with a sharp eye.

Clouds

2012-01-14T10:28:00.000+01:00

Today–more specifically, this morning–is proving to be a rather interesting, here in the Netherlands. This mainly has to do with the clouds at the moment. The Netherlands is just fabulous; let's just clear that up and get that out there, right from the start. One of the countless treasures that makes life here so enchanting, is the clouds. (Well, and of course the architecture, but–that's a whole other topic). The clouds in North Holland tend to hang low, look like gigantic cotton balls, floating in the air–and floating quite close, too. Sometimes you would think you'd be able to just reach up and touch them. Really–they're often just... low. And huge. And moving quite fast, too. But almost any given sunny summer day, running or cycling amongst a polder, is magical... The sky is fiercely royal blue, sunny, and the constant 'at-sea-level' landscape allows a complete panoramic and 360-degree view of all above. There's an abundance of sky. Stunning it is, really. The air is crisp and warm; the light shining down from high-above; the clouds skillfully freely flowing. And you would call those clouds cumulus, if you wanted to get all technical.

But yes, today is proving to be rather interesting;

No cumulus in sight. Instead, cirrus clouds abound.

Gorgeous Amsterdam Gables

2012-01-14T01:50:00.000+01:00

What Amsterdam Oost (East) lacks in cute-ass canals, it more than makes up for in its abundance of late 19th, and early 20st century architecture.

Amsterdam: the Red Light District

2012-01-13T08:44:00.000+01:00

Oude Kerk, dating from (somewhere around) 1306.

Love for: Dam Square

2012-01-12T08:05:00.001+01:00

...Knowing who you want to be.

2012-01-11T13:22:00.002+01:00

It's tough to know who it is you want to be; that's for sure.

But I'm also sure that I have the insight needed, to get me there.

At the end of the day, I am not sure what I want to do.

I'm not 100% sure of which direction my future will take.

But at the end of the day, I know who I want to be.

And I will do everything I can to get myself there.

I want to wear beautiful clothes; I want to wear thick-framed glasses.

I want to be a walking-talking design encyclopedia.

But above all I want to be happy, healthy and loved.

And the thing is, I'm already all of the above.

So what is it that I'm searching for?

Which direction should I take?

Do I go left, or do I go right?

Het Concertgebouw

2012-01-11T09:21:00.002+01:00

Pigeons and a seagull, above the Indische Buurt.

2012-01-10T08:28:00.002+01:00

Li–'man'–cello, from Italy:

2012-01-09T07:31:00.001+01:00

A present from Amy– straight from Florence; gleefully consumed with apple tart.

Roccoco:

2012-01-06T08:26:00.000+01:00

The whimsical Abbot's Palace, in Oliwa, Gdańsk, Poland.

Rainy days

2012-01-05T10:21:00.001+01:00

AMS has been a dark-dreary puddle since I returned from Poland.

Amy came, and then left, and it was super great to have her here again.

I'm anticipating what 2012 may have in store for me; could be quite rewarding.

But for now, I'm more worried about when Amanda and I are going to brunch again...

That, and making sure that the above, doesn't also happen to my umbrella, too.

Ahhh; little, tiny, beautiful (and wet), Amsterdam.

Gables in Gdansk, Poland:

2012-01-01T11:56:00.001+01:00

In between Christmas and New Years Eve, I jetted off to Gdansk, Poland.

A feast of gables can be found in Gdansk; but no city outshines the gables of my beloved and beautiful Amsterdam.

Love for: Dam Square

2011-12-28T10:19:00.001+01:00

Surrealist streets of Amsterdam:

2011-12-23T15:41:00.002+01:00

Reflections, in the Jordaan, at Elandsgracht and Hazenstraat.

Growing up; take 26.

2011-12-23T15:32:00.002+01:00

Here I sit on a train, going to Maastricht. This should be my last visit to the city for some time. I have never particularly enjoyed going to Maastricht. The people, while polite, are not 'out-of-their-way' nice. You really have to be in the community, to be accepted by it. Never the less, it is a beautiful city that I have previously professed my intrigue for many times over–the architecture heavy; the river freely flowing; multiple countries just over every hilltop.

One thing it does not feel like, currently, is Christmas. Where is the snow? Where is the cold? Where is the ice? Where is Santa? Well, to be honest, I did see Santa the other day when I walked into the Bijenkorf. He was telling everyone 'Merry Christmas'... in English. And just yesterday, while cycling past the Tropenmuseum, I saw that Coca-Cola has more or less bought up every street-side advertising billboard–along the Linnaeusstraat–with a picture of Coke Santa, and the words 'Merry Christmas' proudly proclaimed in a very 'rustic-classic' san-serif font. The Anglization of Amsterdam is almost complete!

And speaking of English; my Dutch has taken the back seat for some time now. I have been so focused on my work, making a name for myself professionally, and listening to what my heart wants to be, see, feel, and create. So far my life has been incredibly rewarding, and every time I do sit down to write something long winded, I always think back to a post that I wrote while sitting in a launderette, in Düsseldorf, doing laundry and folding clothes. But that was always because I never had a washer/dryer in all these tiny Euro apartments I previously rented, so all my typing was doing, while doing laundry. Yikes! It's fun to look back and see how I've arrived at where I am now (...once again, while only looking forward, of course). I moved to Amsterdam quite swiftly, right after graduating from university. My real-world education is beyond most, for someone of my age; at least I think to think so, that's what I tell myself, at least.

And there's another worth: self. The self is the inner you; your soul. The essence is what connects us all. And to lose your self, in the essence, is a beautiful thing. Launching off from 2011's key-word of fluidity, the word essence seems to have a much better possibility of being fluid-like, in my mind, than self. So I've been trying to live in the essence; be in the moment; and not be in my head, for 2011. It's working well, and I notice that I enjoy casual conversations more these days, with more depth. Chit-chat is tedious to me; it makes me feel as flimsy as silicone–lacking depth. So I've also, this year, researched and explored new passions, new paths, and new ways of combining words with media to tell a story; that has been the ultimate goal of my self for the past two years: to learn the art of non-verbal story-telling. It's worked, and I've done it alongside some of the world's best. It still surprises and excites me to this day, that some of the world's best creative’s minds, I've pulled into my sphere of life–to work alongside. It's so exciting. I want to always learn, from the best, and I'm not afraid to make that a reality.

Christmas is coming up soon and I still have to put up our tree; kidding of course! It's been up since the middle of November. (What else would you expect? 'November–how so?', you ask. It's a fake one of course! How else would every branch (and the overall silhouette) be perfect?). I'm going to The Hague tomorrow for a 'Christmas' lunch with the family, and then Christmas day is reserved for some serious present opening, coffee-of course, and lots of deliciously lekker food, drink, and Christmas cheer. Then Tuesday I'm off to... Gdansk, Poland. Renting an apartment in a chic part of town, and having five days to explore a tiny harbor city, during the always interesting 'between Christmas and New Years' period, which should prove exciting. If only for the fact that there is not much of a set agenda involved, except eating, drinking and exploring the castles and woods around Gdansk–and of course, it's cute ass city center.

Then, my friend Amy arrives on New Years day; this Amy. The one that inspires me to be myself, never focus on the past, and make the most of, myself, within life and the tangible 3D-material world the surrounds us. I am not sure what our plans will be, but I'm sure it will involve lots of bike rides, coffees, food, and lots of smiles and laughs and long winded conversations.

As 2011 dwindles to an end, I feel as if I've become more true to myself; my ambitions; my desires; my wants; my needs. My life is becoming more focused in terms of where I want to be in the world. I want to surround myself with, as Oprah so eloquently stated: '...Only those who will lift you higher.' And I'm doing just that. And I'm doing it in Amsterdam. It's exciting; it's intoxicating; and it started at a young age. 19 and running through the streets of Gay Pride in San Francisco; 21 and running around Chelsea and downtown Manhattan's nighttime-scene; 22 and in Copenhagen and Germany and Amsterdam... learning about architecture and design while sponging up as much European culture and history as I could, and can; alongside street-smarts, physical activity and endurance (running!), and a renewed and reinvigorated sense of body-consciousness, allowing for the exterior to match the interior.

'Style is just the outside of content, and content the inside of style. Like the outside and inside of the human both, they both go together–they can't be separated.'

I recently watched this wonderful video interview of Diane von Fürstenberg, in which she states that she didn't know what she wanted to do or how she was going to get there when she started her professional career, but that she knew who she wanted to be. That's powerful. And more importantly, incredibly pragmatic and inspirational. I am on my way to who I want to be (getting back to the self). And along the way, I'm going to surround myself with creative and inspirational people who will 'lift me higher', while providing the necessary environment and resources, allowing me to lose myself in the moment at all times, to be true to my desires and aspirations.

I am not a romantic, but a realist. I am pragmatic beyond belief, intensely loyal and devoted to anything and anyone I put my passion–and more importantly, love–behind. This past Sunday, my stunning boyfriend and I went to a 'body-pump' class at the (brand new and huge!) gym we just joined. Having been a swimmer and a runner during my youth, I know how to exert full control of my mind over my body. And these past few years I've really explored and begun to understand my body; accept it; embrace it. Besides, it's probably one of, if not the only, thing that I'll have with me, my whole life. I'm learning to love it; it can move in all kinds of fun and fluid ways. And if the right song is playing, my living room can turn into a dance floor–a party of one, shall we say. Sometimes David joins, and then it's a party of two–caught up in the essence. We like that.

Finding their way through the fog:

2011-12-22T08:43:00.000+01:00

At the ever and always busy intersection of
Nassaukade/Marnixstraat & Fredrik Hendrikplantsoen.

...Just outside the lovely Jordaan, and right next to my former buurt in the city.

Oh how I miss the west of Amsterdam, with all it's tiny streets and canals.

But Amsterdam east, these days, is where it's at.
I've come to love the ever so boho-chic, Indische Buurt.

Life and all its wonders

2011-12-21T22:43:00.003+01:00

I've been considering life quite a bit lately; what it is that I'm here for; what it is I want to do in the world; what I want to 'give back'. (Which my boyfriend always says is sooo American of me. 'Give back? Ch–who does that?')

I would like to give back to something; be it a team; a project; a goal; a global goal. And I do feel as if I already have, in many ways. But I am questioning what it is I want to do with my life. And which direction I want it to go in. Being fixed natured as I am, it's tough to get me to move on from anything once I've attached to it: could be a joke; pair of pants; type of food; the colour of that flower over there; the last funny thing you just said; how happy I am; how wonderful life is; what to do today...

Fluid fountains, in December

2011-12-21T00:10:00.000+01:00

The fountain outside the American Hotel on Leidseplein is still flowing at full force.

'A surrealism will permeate us.' -Li Edelkoort

2011-12-20T08:20:00.000+01:00

Growing up:

2011-12-19T17:58:00.000+01:00

I am slowly learning that I either do something half-heartedly, or whole-heartedly. With me, it's all or nothing. And that, it's not exactly what you do, but how you do it. I want to undertake everything I do, with passion. To use a wonderful quote from 'Under the Tuscan Sun' (love that movie!), and subsequently Federico Fellini:

'Put yourself into life and never lose your openness, your childish enthusiasm throughout the journey that is life, and things will come your way.'

So I'm trying to do just that.

I'm thrusting myself out into the world.

With childish enthusiasm.

A month or so back I went to a party; a party full of all kinds of graphic designer/writer/pr/fashion types – and I loved it. My people! It has been a while since I'd been to a party with people who were more or less in my general age range. And doing the same things I love to do–personally and professionally. It was refreshing. And it was totally fun to to tell people how I came to the Netherlands–as everyone asked. It's a fun story to tell. But it's even more fun to tell people that I came to the Netherlands, to write for a pair of influential design and architecture magazines. Since moving onwards, my journey here in the Dutch capital continues to unravel in profoundly poignant ways.

It was at a particular moment, when retelling the story of my arrival, that I realized: I totally belong at this party! And this really is the life I've created for myself. How fun.

Ik hou van Nederland/Dutch Pride

2011-12-17T11:16:00.004+01:00

Antwerp, part 2

2011-12-17T11:12:00.001+01:00

Antwerp was rather interesting. Some parts were rather ugly, and others, rather not. But all so mixed, not unlike in the US. But very unlike here, in North Holland.

Facing south

2011-12-17T11:00:00.003+01:00

One side of my home is composed of a rather large wall of windows, which gives way to the view south. Therefore, sun. Everyday, all day; from winter to summer. Winter sun in Northern Europe is so wonderful... Europe's climate is so striking considering just how far north the continent lies on the globe. (Read all about it in; The Little Ice Age, by Bryan Fagan.) I am definitely a Northern European kind of guy. A chill is always in the air in Amsterdam, and I really enjoy that. The morning sun that rises over Amsterdam is splendid, its shimmer bouncing off clouds. And sometimes while facing south, taking in the view, I'll see planes flying by on the horizon landing and taking off at/from Schipol. All of the below photos were taken from the climate controlled comfort of my living room, facing south. I have the most awe-inspiring morning sunrise views. They often stun me with their beauty...

Bikers, in the fog.

2011-12-15T08:25:00.001+01:00

Antwerp en andere dingen

2011-12-12T08:27:00.009+01:00

The words are coming... they are... until then...

I went to Antwerp last week, twice:

I have an unbridled love for all things 'Low Countries', and, having never been to Antwerp, I was more than excited to scope out the 'Belgian' architecture when compared to that of, for instance, Amsterdam. I do love those Low Countries gabled houses. Antwerp was/is a bit less (understatement) 'organized' than Amsterdam (in the ways of: crosswalks, traffic lights, road signage, street signs, etc...) But apparently Belgians have cool 'frames', you know, for their glasses; great food (because that whole 'French' thing); soft 'g's; and soft personalities... so the Dutchies say. (In turn, Belgians apparently say those from the north Netherlands (aka: North Holland) are: blunt, harsh, and rude...)

We are totally not.

We welcome all, in North Holland.

We welcome all, in beautiful Amsterdam.

The Christmas tree is up!

2011-12-09T07:24:00.003+01:00

Morning sun over Amsterdam:

2011-12-07T07:43:00.004+01:00

Dam Square: Crossing Traffic

2011-12-06T07:29:00.002+01:00

Love for: facades of the Indische Buurt

2011-11-30T08:37:00.003+01:00

Sunrise over the Indische Buurt

2011-11-29T07:34:00.002+01:00

A red bridge, covered in fog

2011-11-28T07:38:00.007+01:00

This red bridge is probably one of, if not my most favourite place, in all of Amsterdam. When I run, I often make it a prerequisite, to run up and over this wonderful work of art.

Lovely Madrid

2011-11-26T11:02:00.007+01:00

Amsterdam: A Visual Delight

2011-11-22T01:05:00.013+01:00

My good friend Amanda, from 'Amanda Blog and Kiss', and I, have been working

a new project for some time, and I'm proud to say it's officially launched.

...Be sure to have a peak at our new photo blog: The Colours of Amsterdam

It offers up a visual delight of all things Amsterdam

(with quotes and colour palettes included).

Madrid Reflections:

2011-11-21T16:10:00.003+01:00

'A surrealism will permeate us.' -Li Edelkoort

Tactile & Fluid: Frederik Hendrikstraat

2011-11-20T16:57:00.001+01:00

Love for: Dam Square

2011-11-18T07:46:00.003+01:00

Winter is on its way:

2011-11-16T10:25:00.005+01:00

Just this past Sunday Amsterdam look like this:

The smell of sun-dried leaves filled the air as crepuscular rays shined down.

...This morning while cycling to work, 'salt' -to melt the ice-, had been sprinkled on bike paths in my part of the city (and perhaps the whole city). Winter is on its way. And, almost instantaneously, Amsterdam has become freezing cold.

Rozengracht

2011-11-15T08:19:00.001+01:00

Weteringlaan

2011-11-14T07:47:00.002+01:00

Amsterdam: the Red Light District

2011-11-13T09:38:00.002+01:00

On the way back from Madrid...

2011-11-11T20:34:00.012+01:00

Here I sit, in Madrid, Spain, in terminal four of the Madrid-Barajas Airport. Terminal four is the new terminal, and it's beautiful; the way-finding system is far from perfect, but it accomplishes what it needs to, I imagine. Right now I'm staring out the window to the mountains/hills in the distance. It's a panoramic view that I currently have, and it's lovely. Lovely, such a British English word that's slowly creeped into my vocabulary since moving to Europe. As has 'bit'. As I type this I am also listening to Scarlet Johansson’s album 'Anywhere I Lay My Head' - simply stunning it is; takes a while to get into, and at times the music overpowers the vocals; he voice is a bit 'buried'; but her husky and raw voice is a pleasant change from the usual fare my ears are filled with. So Scarlet Johansson, Madrid and Europe; three seemingly disconnected entities, but, I imagine nothing is disconnected, if you can connect the dots. And I can.

I have been in Madrid for the past week living out of a hotel in the Chueca neighborhood of the city; I felt right at home amongst the gays, gentrifiers, dog walkers, flashy bars, and oh so wonderful boutiques (at one of which I picked up a new (and perfect) pair of brown boots that I'll have for years to come, as well as a new pair of pants from 'Le Freak'–the kind of pants that were super trendy for Dutch girls about two years ago, but are now finally being produced for men; the kind where the inseam is halfway to the knees–and they're fabulous).

One thing that was not so fabulous about this past week was that a delicious pizza place was located directly across from my hotel. Eat pizza in Madrid, I did. I didn't bring my running shoes to the city, and I am more than ecstatic to get home and go running through the streets of my beloved Amsterdam. I am highly partially to running over these red bridges by West 8 in the Oostelijk Hjavengebied. They're magical. Especially at night. I am really ready to return to Amsterdam; I miss it. We've become so close over the years. The years...wow. I can't believe that I moved to Amsterdam at the age of 22. A bold and brave move that has changed my life, forever. No matter on which continent I may find myself on in the future - Amsterdam will always be a piece of me. It has become my home.

While in Madrid, I was setting up an exhibition; the second location of the exhibition; the other being the Netherlands last year. I handled all the coordination, communication and budget for this exhibition. I am amazed at how much I've grown up over the years, both personally and professionally. I have thrown himself into the world, and the world has professionally responded profoundly, and positively.

The exhibition I have been setting up here in Madrid had its opening last night, and to my happiness (and with much thanks to my excellent PR skills, might I say (and some beautifully designed posters, too!)), it was a full house–with a great opening debate and lecture, and lots of wine and tapas being thrown around afterwards. I passed on the wine, instead opting for water; I was exhausted after the week of set-up, and I still am. But in the end, it's good to know that I am capable of overseeing production of an entire exhibition, for one of the Netherlands most respected designers at that. Over the last three and a half years I have published many articles I'm proud of, in some of the greatest design magazines, edited four books, practiced and refined my stream of conscious writing beyond belief-and have become really happy with who I am in the world, where I am in the world, and I have become even more convinced that I've found my professional slice that fits within the globe. Everyday at work, I get to play with pictures and words, and tell stories. Life is so wonderful; I will always remember that, no matter what. I mean; we're alive!

And speaking of being alive; I am really coming to understand my body, how it works, how it moves, how I can control it, and how–with this aspect being the most important...how my body is connected to my mind, and how the two function together. I have come to learn which foods my body can easily digest, which foods stick to me-no matter how often I run, and just how beautiful the human body is. But at the same time, not. At the end of the day we are just animals; to quote Samantha Jones from Sex and the City, we're all just 'reacting to each others smell.' Is that true? Pheromones certainly do play a part in life-I'm convinced. Hence why I wear this; because it smells that damn good. And it makes a bold, yet subtle statement, and lingers in the room, even after I've left. Thank you Tom Ford.

Li Edelkoort's main forcast for 2012 touched on how the world's population (though most probably she means the West) are entering the emancipation of men, and how the archetype of the man is changing; slender, Germanic, and in touch with his feminine side; as all men were once first female in their mothers' wombs. Apparently, humans are growing a closer bond to animals, perhaps, as we try to understand the animal in us. And therefore, this season, and next, anything animal sells. So...as Wednesday was a regional holiday in Madrid, I went shopping, to take a break from the chaos of unpacking boxes and perfectly hanging oversized panels–and purchased the most over-the-top knitted ski hat, complete with 'fur' trim on the interior. And here in Madrid the weather has been mostly pleasant, however-it has been colder than I expected Spain to be, during the autumn/winter cusp. It's been about 12C and slightly sunny, and apparently winter has struck Amsterdam. So, I am anticipating colder temperatures once I return home–if only to break-out my new hat, as I try to understand the animal in me.

On the streets of Madrid:

2011-11-09T23:08:00.000+01:00

In Madrid...

2011-11-08T20:34:00.004+01:00

I am in Madrid at the moment–setting up an exhibition.

This is my first time to the city, and I spent my birthday here, which was Sunday.

Madrid is the third largest city within the EU, after London and Berlin–who knew?!

It is, beautiful.

Gables:

2011-11-04T08:29:00.000+01:00

Love for: cute little streets in Oost

2011-11-03T08:06:00.001+01:00

Cycling through the city:

2011-11-01T00:01:00.000+01:00

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T13:44:00.003+01:00

Some very exciting events are swirling in my life.

I'll have to make the time to write about them soon.

But for now; Happy Halloween!

(A holiday that's slowing making its way to Europe).

Rue Aubry le Boucher: Paris

2011-10-30T09:50:00.001+01:00

On the streets of Paris...

2011-10-28T08:48:00.001+02:00

Just around the corner...

2011-10-27T15:30:00.005+02:00

Amsterdam is going through a period of rainless-ness.

And the term 'period' in Amsterdam, in regards to rain, means but a few days.

So, today, I savored the sun; as retaliation against the long winter nights ahead.

Breakfasting on the terrace of Cafe Letting

2011-10-26T08:16:00.000+02:00

Café Letting is a cute little place to grab breakfast in Amsterdam; one of the few. I've been going there for a few years now (practically a regular I tell you!). These days it seems to be over-run by Anglophones, mostly American tourists. But I still enjoy their terrace, and their pancakes (and the fact that they have soy milk for coffee).

Love for: the Indische Buurt

2011-10-23T18:17:00.000+02:00

Paris - October 2011

2011-10-20T08:11:00.000+02:00

Whimsical bubbles, in Paris.

2011-10-18T10:28:00.002+02:00

This weekend I went to Paris, again...

2011-10-17T16:55:00.002+02:00

A lamp post, in the Jordaan.

2011-10-13T08:15:00.003+02:00

Amsterdamse School

2011-10-12T00:44:00.004+02:00

Amsterdamse School architecture arose in Amsterdam throughout the 1910-30s.

Most of it is located in Oud Zuid, built around and for the 1928 Summer Olympics.

These sexy men, and these full of expression bricks, can be found here.

Bikes, on bridges, in the Jordaan.

2011-10-11T12:18:00.004+02:00

I've been cycling and walking around the Jordaan a lot lately; at lunch, on weekends, really… the list never ends. This area of the city, takes my breath away.

Last year, when my boyfriend and I were looking for a house in Amsterdam to call our own, I was convinced we would settle in the Jordaan. 'How perfect', I thought. And in some respects, it is. But, if your house is not large, or new, then chances are it is: old, and small, and dusty. That's how I see Amsterdam these days, a bit old and dusty - yet still so full of personality. Funny how, as an American (and even from a city seeping in history, for American standards), I saw Amsterdam through the most rosiest colored glasses when I first arrived. I still do. But, the built environment, these days, I see completely different. And, as someone who studied architecture, the internal transformation of my thoughts on buildings, is even more special to me. What all this means, is that I'm absorbing more of the local culture and customs, understanding what's around me (and why it was built that way), processing those thoughts, and in return, creating a whole new outlook on the city around me. And now, those rose colored glasses are becoming even rosier; except this time, the lenses I'm looking through, have even more layers: layers of meaning; layers of history; layers of understanding; and layers of seeing the world, in a whole new way.

Rivierenbuurt: Scheldestraat & Churchilllaan

2011-10-10T17:21:00.004+02:00

...from here.

Gables, in the rain, in early October.

2011-10-09T19:48:00.011+02:00

Stadionweg is...

2011-10-08T13:40:00.010+02:00

The name of a street in the Oud Zuid neighborhood of Amsterdam, along which – directly adjacent to Olympiaplein – is located a wonderful bakery (if not the best bakery in Amsterdam), which is just happens be where Amsterdam's best croissant can be found. And those wonderful flakey, lekker, chocolate lovelies. The name of the bakery is:

Le Fournil de Sébastién.

I cycled there this morning, to stock up on both bread and pain au chocolats.

It usually takes me between 25-30 minutes to cycle there from my house.

But it's totally worth it. And the sun this morning, at 8:00, along the Amstel, sparkled.

Find this (wonderful) traditional French bakery, here:

Amsterdam: What have you done with the sun?

2011-10-06T08:21:00.004+02:00

A wonderful week of summer-esque sun, has come to an end. Hello, autumn rains.

Saturday evening along the Amstel

2011-10-04T08:13:00.003+02:00

...because trees almost always line up perfectly, along waterways, in the Netherlands.

Fluidity: 'Like a flag floating in the air.'

2011-10-03T07:52:00.003+02:00

Kijkduin, The Hague, the Netherlands

Early evening sunset above the Indische Buurt

2011-10-02T08:49:00.002+02:00

Croatia Snapshot #2

2011-09-30T08:23:00.004+02:00

A day, at the beach, in The Hague.

2011-09-29T09:51:00.009+02:00

The Hague really is a wonderful city. And with each subsequent visit, its beauty and history (and its beach!) I appreciate just a bit more. The city is grand in a way that Amsterdam is not - and I'm convinced this is due to its role as the seat of the government of the Netherlands. The Binnenhof is there, and Queen Beatrix lives there, too! But The Hague (capital T), even with all its understated-yet-grand beauty, will never have a place in my heart, in the way that my beloved Amsterdam does - and always will. But then again, it does have a beach.

Efe Food op Javastraat

2011-09-27T09:45:00.002+02:00

Whimsical Leaves & Diminishing Sunlight

2011-09-26T17:45:00.004+02:00

The weather has taken to a shocking trend as of Saturday morning, and the oh-so-gray-and-gloomy weather that the Netherlands (and much of North-Western Europe) has been experiencing this summer, has reversed. The sun has returned, and it's supposed to stay, at least until the end of the week. A whole week without rain. How exciting. I don't remember how long it's been since my tiny village on the North Sea experienced a full week without rain. It has been, a very long time.

There is something moving in the air these days, and I mean this both literally and figuratively. The leaves are beginning their fall, slowly sauntering to the ground as the world turns, yet again, and begins to usher in Autumn. But something else is happening in the air too – the days are growing shorter and the ever-shrinking lack of sunlight has stirred my senses, giving way to new feelings, new ideas and new emotions.

Once again I'm reflecting on my life, in accordance with the seasons – pondering what has happened, what's ahead and what's happening right now, that may lend influence later in life. A swirl of fluid possibilities are stirring alongside this season's sauntering leaves, and I'm quite curious as to what these leaves will look like, once they've all touched down to the ground, and their mosaic of colour comes into focus, after months of patiently waiting to go forth on their whimsical journey.

Lunching on Museumplein

2011-09-25T14:29:00.000+02:00

Head in the clouds... Feet in the sky.

2011-09-23T11:18:00.003+02:00

Recently in Amsterdam Oost...

2011-09-21T16:33:00.003+02:00

Amsterdam Late Nights

2011-09-19T08:07:00.002+02:00

Dam tot Dam

2011-09-18T09:17:00.008+02:00

In just a few hours I am running the Dam to Dam 'loop'...

It's a (running) race that begins in Amsterdam and ends in Zandaam.

It's about 10 miles/16 km in total. Not too long; not too difficult.

I run all the time, so I'm banking on having absolutely no trouble.

In fact, I'm quite excited. The thrill, rush and atmosphere that occurs at a race's starting line, just before a race begins, get's me giddy. The only thing I'm not excited about, is having to board a bus or train after the race, to come back to Amsterdam. I mean, yeah, it's all cool to run under the IJ, to continue running to Zandaam... But when I'm finished running a race, I always want to go home - ASAP. Not wait for a bus.

Regardless, it should be a great deal of fun. I've ran the Amsterdam 1/2 Marathon three times before - but this is my first 'Dam tot Dam' - which is apparently quite the tradition amongst runners in this tiny city.

Hopefully it's as enjoyable as the city's 1/2 Marathon...

(And my time!: 1:15.00 - in the top 8th percentile!)

Scenes from Maastricht

2011-09-17T10:00:00.000+02:00

Rozengracht & Marnixstraat

2011-09-16T07:24:00.000+02:00

Trend Forecasting My Future

2011-09-15T20:33:00.010+02:00

Wow. So here I am on yet another trip to Maastricht. Again.

I recently read through some of my old blog posts, and saw that I wrote something along the lines of 'Who knew that the city of Maastricht would become such an integral part of my life?' So true. I have a few friends there, I know the city well, certainly its geography. Last time I was there I ran to Belgium, as in ran... crossed the bridge, touched Belgium, and then ran back. It was about 12 k in total. It really is a beautiful, Maastricht. It is a city tucked alongside the river Meuse. It doesn't feel Dutch in the way North Holland does. And it is a nice destination to be. I should perhaps refer to it as a leisure destination. The whole city is full of shops and restaurants, and it often feels like an outdoor shopping mall. That is until the streets clear, because the shops have closed. The city has a bit of a French feel to it, and a bit more wrought-iron too.

Regardless, it's very pretty - heel heel mooi - and I've genuinely learned to appreciate the city, its people- their customs and cultures that make them so unique.

That's enough of a tribute to Limburg... onto North Holland again.

I really love my little city on the North Sea. Amsterdam and I have had plenty of time to get acquainted with one another. I have been thrusting both my professional existence and my personal interests out into the world these days, at what seems like a drastic force, to me at least– someone who's very content to lounge around the house all day... I'm starting to take a conscious interest in fashion, too. But then again, I'm always up for a run, I constantly crave being outdoors, and the excitement of the city, can always pull me. Amsterdam has so much to offer, and it has offered me so much more, since my Dutch has improved. I am very proud of the Dutch I have learned since moving to Amsterdam. It makes me feel a bit more in tuned and aware of my surrounding, beyond the physical built environment, and more so into the invisible social environment. I like being in the moment, and I like being a stranger. I like knowing what's happening in my city- what the views, actions and initiatives are, of those around me and inhabiting space around my general living vicinity/neighborhood.

For the past year and half I have lived in the Indische Buurt with my boyfriend. It's swell. I guess if you were British you could say it was lovely. It was not so hot of a neighborhood in the city 5-10 years ago. But lately it has taken off... Most of the nieighborhood above the Insulindeweg is quite cute, with late nineteenth century architecture so characteristic of Dutch architecture of that period. And it's very linguistically and visually diverse. There are so many cultures and colors living side by side. This little neighborhood is on the rise. And I can say that I have never had a neighborhood of my own before, as I have never really had the chance to semi-settle anywhere. I lived in Russian Hill in San Francisco, the East Village in Manhattan, Amager in Copenhagen, and in Derendorf in Düsseldorf. I've also lived in the Ouid Zuid, Fredrik Hendrikbuurt, and Westerpark, here in Amsterdam. But all of those places were temporary, and I have never lived in a house, bought it, renovated it, and lived in it with a boyfriend before. But it has been the most beautiful experience. So since we moved in, it of course feels much more permanent. So I claim the Indishe Burt to be my first true neighborhood; one where I belong, because I live here. I care about my neighborhood.

The Indishe Buurt is full of little gems: The Wilde Swijnen and the Het Badhuis on Javaplein, a brand new library just opened around the corner, also on Javaplein. I have two Albert Heijn's within a 200 m walk of my house, and there is this great little produce shop on Javastraat that sells supper cheap and super fresh veggies, fruits, couscous, eggs, etc. My favourite is called Efe Food, and they are the best! There is also Studio K, just around the corner, and the somewhat over-hyped but still pleasantly enjoyable, Pompstation- a restaurant in an old pump station, as the name implies. There is also Muiderpoort station just a 5-minute walk from my house - the better to take the NS train anywhere in Holland, or for that matter Europe: Paris, Nice, Berlin... all trains interconnect - some just cost more, obviously. But I can, similarly, take the train to Schipol Airport, and jet off around the world anywhere. You see, the Netherlands has traditionally been very fertile in both its land and its accessibility to the world. And I love that. It means the world is at my fingertips. Cities that don't have some sort of fixed rail, light rail, subway, metro, etc. - that connects their city's core to their airport, always confuse me. I don't have a car in Amsterdam, and I love that. But...

My boyfriend and I are a member of Amsterdam's version of the 'Zip Car' scheme. It's a city car-sharing program, similar to the original from San Francisco. It's called GreenWheels. Last weekend we decided to use the electric car they just docked around the way from our house. It costs the same price as the gas/petrol car, and it seemed like a fun and guilt free way to get to The Hague asap, without - you know, that combustion engine thing also along for the ride. When we got in, David started the car, but neither of us realized that it was on for quite some time. I think he tried to start it at least five times before we realized that, since it was electric, it was also noiseless. Every worry or question that people have about electric cars, in the name of a slight skepticism, came true for us that day – though I have always been a fan of the idea and the reality of an electric car, I had never ridden in one until now. Our 'power' dropped to half, halfway to The Hague. I told David, 'It's totally fine! Of course! No keep going to The Hague! It's fully charged!' In the end we just barely made it back to Amsterdam, after turning around while halfway to The Hague, while driving as fluidly as possible to make it back home. We returned to and pulled into the parking spot, just as the powered-low dashboard light was just about to finish its first and final round of 'low power' blinks. What a day that was.

I feel at home in this city. I have a history here. And I love that. I moved here not knowing what to expect, whom I would meet, where my professional life would lead, or who and what would stumble - or I would pull - into my life. Professionally I have pulled some very fascinating people in the Dutch world of design into my little social-interaction-circle. It's all very stimulating and I feel as if Amsterdam has taught me, professionally, that life and the work that you've devoted your time to, does not always move so fast as you think it can - or should. Life is not always about speed, or numbers, or money. Growing up in America everything is about money, but in a very strange way. Every new building, complex or development proudly announces and markets how many millions it cost - and everyone is always trying to get ahead. In a way this is nice. It makes people non-stagnant and in my experience, a bit more competitive too. It's a faster life. I feel as in Europe there is often a less rushed life dance-taking place, than that in (Northern) North America. It's so far been a beautiful discovery for me, moving here, and Europe has really slowed me down.

Europe has done to me, many of the things I had hoped and wished it would: slow me down, profoundly raise my self-confidence, change my eating habits, get me in super-shape, open up the world to me professionally, and allow me to experience regions of the world previously unknown to me - through travel. I've learned/am learning a whole new language that enables me to see the world in a whole new way, and better yet, be able to express myself in a whole new way too. It's great fun, and I must say I am incredibly surprised myself how good my Dutch can actually be, if I, A: try had enough, and/or B: have an urge or desire to speak it. Depends who I'm talking to. I like being able to express myself in two languages. It's very interesting.

I have really been horrible with jotting down of words this year and I have to say I have received quite a few random emails this year from websites, blogs, etc. that refer to my blog as, 'a photo blog'. A photo blog! Wow - that was a kick and an inspiration to set my fingers on a pecking spree against my keyboard. But it's true though; most of 2011 has been imagery. But nice imagery, I like to think. But I do love writing and I've recently been devoting myself to other projects in 2010-11. Articles and books and editing. I must say I love the little design and publishing sphere that I've fallen into in this city. Life feels so right at this moment.

And, as I've always known, it can only get better. The best is yet to come. Here's to the future, whatever that may bring, and wherever that may bring me....

Though I can say, that life will be taking me to Paris - again! My fourth time in the city, to visit two of good friends in October, the 14-16. A quick weekend get away. I am so excited to see a few of my friends (always fun to see American friends in Europe), and bask in the lights, of La Ville-Lumière, yet again.

Egelantiersgracht

2011-09-14T10:34:00.003+02:00

My favorite gracht (canal) in the whole of Amsterdam.

It is, so beautiful. And I have the fondest memories of moments alongside it.

Amsterdam has shaped and influences my outlook on life, and the world, so much.

And I love that.

Fluid fountains at the American Hotel

2011-09-13T08:30:00.000+02:00

Those fabulous puffy Dutch clouds:

2011-09-12T08:16:00.004+02:00

Coffeeshop La Tertulia op Princengracht

2011-09-11T16:00:00.001+02:00

Amsterdam swept me away-

2011-09-09T00:10:00.007+02:00

Over the past few months the following keywords and phrases have underlined my every action, thought and conversation; 'in the moment', fluidity, dérive, and last but most importantly, love –

As I grow, my interests have morphed shaped and reformed – and I'm convinced the built environment has a profound impact on city dwellers' lives, mainly their social interactions.

I moved to Amsterdam, and the photo above was the view from my desk, everyday - for about two months. I thought I had stumbled into some sort of... I just didn't even know how to describe it – that feeling – upon first seeing this city. It just takes you in. Amsterdam, welcomes everyone.

The neighbourhood – the Jordaan – was suddenly my playground and backdrop for life, every day – work and play. Amsterdam, easily swept me away.

Gables in the Indische Buurt

2011-09-08T08:02:00.002+02:00

Gables in the Jordaan

2011-09-07T08:03:00.002+02:00

Tactile on Marnixstraat

2011-09-06T23:58:00.003+02:00