We had an early start today, visiting the Aalsmeer Flower Auction where millions of flowers are sold by auction every day of the year. Flowers come in from many parts of the world within 24 hours of being cut. They are sold here, and then shipped to destinations throughout Europe and beyond.
The remainder of the morning was spent at the Rijksmuseum enjoying the works of many world-renowned artists, including Rembrandt and Vermeer. One of the more interesting portraits from the 1600s by Frans Hals was a life-size portrait of Feyntje van Steenkiste. Steenkiste was from a prosperous family and her husband came from a wealthy family as well. The description in the Hall of Honor states “her wealth and Mennonite faith are reflected in her choice of clothing: elegant, yet sober. For example, her wrists are adorned with just a hint of white lace, in contrast to many of her contemporaries.” 
In the afternoon we visited the Singel Mennonite Church which dates from the 1600’s. We met one of the staff persons who told us about the history of the congregation and the activities that the members support today, more than 400 years after it was founded. The church is located on one of Amsterdam’s many canals, the Singel Canal, hence its name.
In addition to Amsterdam’s extensive public transportation system, there are thousands of bikes in the city. In fact, there are more bikes than people. When one walks, one needs to be aware of not only oncoming cars, but bicycles, traveling in dedicated lanes. No doubt the popularity of bicycles tends to keep the Dutch people thin as you observe the local population.
– JB Miller, Classic Anabaptist European Tour II 2023
