Why we Love Microsoft

Why the Visit: In between his London and Cannes business trips, Case squeezed in Amsterdam for the weekend. (Thanks Uncle Bill for setting up Microsoft offices all over the globe.) His Seattle living prepared him to jump on bike in the rain....with zero complaints.

What's the Connection: Casey and I went to Westmont together and he happens to be married to one of my best friends Kelly. Father of 2 beyond adorable kids Finley and Brady, he's promised me Kel and Fin will be making a visit next Spring. (Well, I figured if I write it, it'll happen.)

European First Timers

Why the visit: Because everyone has "see Europe" on their Top 10 list. After checking Amsterdam off the list, they were off to Germany and Czech Republic.

What's the connection: Rob and Sarah Fry are friends from grad school who now live in Colorado. Their visit also got us reconnected with Angela, another friend from grad school who now lives in Amsterdam.

California girl comes to town

Why the visit? Summer break! Amy is a brave and fabulous teacher of 1st graders in good 'ol Reedley and clearly deserved a little European adventure. You'd never know it was her first time in Amsterdam with the expertise in which she tore through the city on a Dutch bike. More adventures included a cozy boat tour on the canals, Haarlem and the famous Dutch beaches.

What's the connection? Amy and I go way back ... to nearly the womb. She was my first friend from back in the Reedley days, we have the baby pics to prove it.

Seattle brings sun

Why the visit? Being the adventurous new parents of 10 month old Grant, Liz "Foster" and Steve extended their big Italy vacation for a weekend in Amsterdam. And much fun was had ... including a 6 hour meal at a swanky new restaurant called "Super Club". Meanwhile, Grandma and Grandpa got plenty of quality time hanging out with Grant back in Seattle.

What's the connection? Liz "Foster" and I roomed together at Westmont College for 4 years ... and she is personally responsible for getting me to move to San Francisco, thus changing my life forever. Her and her husband Steve took their high tech skills to Microsoft, where they are now working for Uncle Bill.