christinewesten's Guestbook

Choice - or "freedom" - is what we most often take for granted. Until it is denied, it is like the air we breathe. Most of us alive today don't appreciate the threats that lurk like diseases in remission throughout history, and which erup
ted with unbelievable violence in the middle of the 20th century. I have not been to the battlefields and death camps of Europe, but I saw Nazi atrocities on film, which was used as evidence at Nuremberg's post-war trials by the American prosecutor. Those images and possibly more importantly the preserved camps like the one you visited are critical testimonials, aren't they? (For the film angle, see "Hollywood At War" in the New Yorker, March 17, 2014.)

Christine, I am so proud of you. When I heard you wanted to visit Auschwitz on your own without a group, I was concerned. Your blog showed me that you had the maturity to handle all the complex emotions that went with your adventure. I k
now I could not have done that. Thank you for sharing that piece of your life and how important it was to you. It was very special, and in its memorial, very respectful and even beautiful to honor all of those who gave their lives. Hope your vacation continues to bring knowledge and joy.

We had the same experience dealing with Mexican pesos. Maybe even more misleading because they use the same symbol as the US dollar! I always feel guilty buying so many souvenirs and gifts for myself because they sound so expensive! Then I
get home and think "Why didn't I buy more?"

Next time, ask at your hotel if you can leave your luggage there for a few hours after you check out. I don't know if they do that in Europe, but we do it often (as well as leaving it if we arrive too early for check in) in Latin America. T
hey are used to this, and they keep it in a secure area. Your Amsterdam room is very cute!