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Amsterdam
February 18, 2020
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There are hundreds of bikes on every street corner in Amsterdam, thousands sometime. All pedestrians must look left, the direction the bike riders travel from if you want to survive on the street, let alone cross it. It's a crazy experience for first time visitors, as the people of Amsterdam do not wear bike helmets or rain gear, and they pedal everywhere through anything. I had a prime view of a typical morning bike commute while sipping a Starbucks flat white, the common caffeinated beverage (no plain drip available). I watched these citizens, families, kids, seniors all pedaling to their destination, in regular clothes, no REI swag or matching Lululemon set. I imagine some kids can grow into their independence earlier in life since they have their 'wheels' at such a young age.
Water ferries are another way of daily transport in Amsterdam. You need to scoot on quickly when boarding, staying clear of the motor scooters and bikes that want your spot. One mom waits patiently as the ferry glides, she holds up her bike with a small son sitting in the front on a little seat and another in the back, sitting on the flat top of the tire guard. No helmet, no bike seat or bubble wrap. Mom then pulled a banana out of her crossbody purse and feeds a piece to the son in the front. All was calm when the ferry docked, and her two wheels carried the three of them to their next destination. I wondered if she listened to the radio. In the states, this woman is our demo. But, she's surrounded by too many gadgets, the Joneses and hundreds of other distractions. Our radio message and music can break through the status and bring her a laugh, a smile, a favorite song or story. We need to look left for her so she can pedal ahead past the clutter and enjoy what we have to share.
Let's share stories, what's your story? I'm @bethbacall or Bethbacall@gmail.com
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