De Pannekoeken Molin, Gulpen, Netherlands

This morning we headed over to base to check out the chapel service.  While it was not our beloved Pastor Derek, it was a good message, and maybe more importantly, we were welcomed with open arms as though we were long lost friends.  What really impressed me was the teenage girls. In my experience, teenage girls can be, and unfortunately often are, very critical and stand offish toward newcomers. Not so today! Two came up to Grace right after service and talked with her to learn more about her and then they all sat together during fellowship time and went together to Sunday School. When Tristan didn't show up to class they even inquired after him, not realizing he was in middle school. Tristan found another boy his age in his class and seemed to enjoy it (and I found out later he even contributed to the discussion!).  Naomi, of course, found her "best friend" and had a great time.  As for David and I, we already feel loved and are excited to be surrounded by Jesus loving people.

After church and Sunday school, we were invited to join others at a Dutch pancake house for brunch. I don't think Grace's phone was working, so we have no pictures of food. :D A Dutch pancake is basically a cross between a crepe (diameter/flavor wise) and a fluffy (think IHOP) pancake.  This pannekoeken is then topped with sweet or savory toppings. Naomi had one that had apples, bananas, and powdered sugar, and the rest of us had some combination of cheese, bacon, tomatoes, and mushrooms.  They did not disappoint!

 A church across the pond from where we ate

 De Pannekoeken Molin

After eating, while the adults were still visiting, the big kids took a walk to Kasteel Neubourg. This castle was built in 1288 but is currently under reconstruction so they couldn't go in. But still - getting to see a castle on your 5th day living in Europe? Yes, please!

 Silly boys

 

 All in all it was a great day.  All of us made new friends and cannot believe that we feel so "at home" already.  I guess that's what happens when there aren't that many Americans in one place (I've heard somewhere in the ballpark of 75 "soldiers" on the entire base David will be working at).