One of the inspirational signs we came across yesterday. “Catch a dream and nurture it.”
I can’t believe it: The second trimester is here (or almost here, depending on who you ask). While I didn’t experience many of the first trimester woes, I am looking forward to gaining some of my energy back. Taking a nap a day has really cut into my daylight hours 🙂
I decided to take a break from the bumpie this week and instead share an update about our time in Amsterdam. Jimmy and I are 10 days into our 2-month adventure and have truly made this place our home. We spend our free time walking around the city, exploring the side streets, picking up fresh produce at the market, stopping into cafes, and cozying up to our fireplace in the evenings.
Being in a place so modern, yet rich in history has been really wonderful. Yesterday we visited a medieval village in the heart of Amsterdam called Begijnhof. This private courtyard, hidden behind secret entrances, was founded around 1150 as a religious home for women. It is still in use today and provides a serene and peaceful escape from the bustling city.
A row of perfectly manicured houses in Begijnhof.
During the week, Jimmy’s consulting work keeps him busy, giving me time to explore galleries and museums, take knitting classes, and practice yoga. I found the most amazing yoga studio near the Rijksmuseum called Delight Yoga, and can’t wait to sign up for more sessions. The studio is flooded with light, 14-foot ceilings, ornate 17th-century molding, and elegant crystal chandeliers. (I may do a separate post just on this if I get a chance to snap a few photos during my next class.)
To top off the week, we spent date night at the Royal Carré Theatre, where we saw Het Zwanenmeer (Swan Lake). It was a beautiful performance and we had some of the best seats in the house (thank you Jimmy!).
Swan Lake (Het Zwanenmeer) at the Royal Carré Theatre in Amsterdam.
Jimmy and I enjoying our box seats at the Carré.
Meagan & Jimmy 
Thank you, Meagan, for sharing your experience and discoveries in Amsterdam. It’s better than watching the travel channel on TV:-) I am planning to finish my first baby sweater today for the little one. For some reason, your baby bump has brought knitting back into my life after 30 years. Please keep sharing! I love you like crazy, Mom
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Thank you Mom! I can’t wait to see the finished sweater – I know it’s going to be adorable.
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The baby bump pictures… so absolutely precious. I never really understood the pregnancy glow before – but I see it in you! It looks like you are lit up from the outside in. xx
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Thank you Christina! That’s so sweet of you to say 🙂
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Dear Meagan and Jimmy,
I am so excited for both of you. I think both you and Jimmy are glowing! I am sure love has something to do with it.
It’s wonderful you have not been sick with morning sickness Meagan.
Your canal house is lovely and will be a very special memory for both of you.
I will be checking your blog more often, please keep sharing pictures of places you are going as well as your baby bump.
Are you going to find out if your baby is a boy or girl? Every time I go by baby things in the store, I am tempted to buy, but I am waiting to know if it is a boy or girl.
Your baby bump is adorable!!
Love, Aunt Monica
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Hi Aunt Monica, Thank you for your nice note! I will definitely share more photos of our travels (I’m working on a post right now). You can click follow on the blog and provide your email so you’ll be notified every time we post. And regarding the sex, yes, we’ll find out when I hit 20 weeks. Very exciting! Thinking of you and sending lots of love. Meagan
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