Open Joodse Huizen

As I have mentioned a few times before, it is impossible to live in Amsterdam without getting wrapped up in the history of the city.  Specifically WWII history.  This weekend is Open Joodse Huizen.  A weekend where people living in homes that were occupied by Jews in the 40s hang signs in their windows, telling the names and fate of the Jews that were living there during the war.  On my street alone there were 15ish signs in windows.  Some of the homes also open their doors for tours and story telling (a few on my block did just that).

This is what the signs look like in windows...this one, next door to us, says that twins, Raphael and Betsy and their brother Daniel lived in that home, until they were taken away to Auschwitz, where they died at ages 10 (the twins) and 12 (Daniel).  Heartbreaking.

Today, May 4, is Remembrance day here.  At 8pm the city goes silent for 2 minutes, to remember the horrors of the war time and to honor the lives lost.  There are ceremonies all over the city.  Most war statues will be covered in flowers by citizens taking time to remember.

Tomorrow, May 5, is a big day in the Netherlands.  Liberation day.  On May 5, 1945 the German Army surrendered.  The day includes parades, concerts, and good cheer all over town.  I'm not sure if we'll catch a parade or anything...but we will celebrate.  As mentioned in this post, I think the best way to celebrate is to ride our bikes up and down this street - over and over and over - with smiles on our faces in honor of the kids from this very block who were robbed of that chance.