Our Home Away From Home

In this series of posts on the Netherlands, I've spoken of some of the wonderful places we've visited, the paintings we saw, the music we heard, the towns we enjoyed. But I still haven't shared with you the best spot in the Netherlands.

I won't be too specific. Let's just say its not too far from Amsterdam, close enough for a short bus ride.

Yet you would think it was in a magical land, where nature abounds. (Click to see photos full size)

It's a place with a splendid garden, a perfect place to rest after hours of walking about. 

A quiet spot to have a cup of tea in a Delft mug. 

I am speaking of our hosts Tara and David's garden. (Their home was equally lovely, but I'll leave you to visit Tara's blog and scroll down to photos of her office and lovely interior!)

Tara and David were simply wonderful hosts. They gave us good advice on activities, walked us through the bus and tram procedures and took us to the wonderful spots you have seen in all these posts. 

 

Then we'd come home, enjoy a quiet moment in the garden or delicious dinners prepared by David and long, delightful conversations.

A neighbor friend stopped by, reminding me of my Gypsy-boy at home.

 

And it wasn't at all unusual to see people pass by, biking into or home from town.

One of the things I most enjoyed about their garden was the oft-anticipated appearance of the swan. 

I saw it once, when camera wasn't at hand, and while we were out, Tara took some gorgeous photos.

On our last day the swan returned.

 

Not just returned. Preened!

 

He (or was it a she? I'm not sure on my swan biology!) swam back and forth in front of the deck.

 

He'd stop in the foliage close to shore..

 

And at times simply looked  like a grand, floating heart.

Yes, I was smitten. What a gift.

Thank you, Tara and David, for your generous hospitality and for a sanctuary to which to return each day. We'll never forget you.