We have arrived!

It is now 7p.m. Tuesday, July 21 and we are all EXHAUSTED!

We arrived in the Amsterdam airport at 7 a.m., went through customs, met our delegation manager, Michelle, and had about an hour an a half to get situated. We exchanged money, called home, started the phone tree, found Starbucks (yes!) and used the toilets. The additional 7 delegates and their leader from Arkansas arrived at 8:30 a.m., so we quickly hopped on our "coach" and were on our way.

After a 30 minute drive through the country, we arrived at Claire Marie farm. We spent a half hour in the hay barn, swinging around and relaxing. Our tour began at 11 a.m. We were greeted by Kees (Case), the farmer who owns and runs the farm. He showed us how to make wooden shoes, and even had Adrienne help him.

Shortly after the wooden shoe demonstration, we moved into the next room where Kees' wife described in detail how they make all their different cheeses. Make sure to quiz your delegate on this when he or she returns... Ask if he or she remembers what curds and whey are...

Now I know you are all wondering... and the answer is YES, they have already begun spending your money! Some students bought cheese, some bought wooden shoes (very useful and a great style statement for the first day back at school), and others found little trinkets to bring back. All the students were very excited about finding treasures for their friends and families. It was quite touching.

The three leaders are off to a quick meeting now... more to come!