Amsterdam - Prinsengracht Farmers Market

My wife and I took a trip to Amsterdam this fall.  We stayed at this great flat at Prinsengracht 79 that is on one of the outer canals just a 10 minute walk from the Danrak.  The flat was wonderful - spacious and comforatable and big enough for four people.  When we look out of the flat window, we overlooked the Noorderkerk Church & square.  On Saturday's they had a fantastic farmer's market with veggies and cheeses and baked goods.


Creamy dutch cheese


Delicious mushrooms



the warmest and moistest fresh baked breads and croissants



beautiful flowers of Noorderkerk


Noorderkerk - a protestant church and a center of artists during monday's Antique mart.


The pipe organ and angel in Noorderkerk


the view from Prinsengracht 79 of Noorderkerk


This man played the most beautiful songs for hours during the antique mart on Mondays.


Local musicians at Noorderkerk.

Dia de Los Muertos 2010

Día de los Muertos, also known as “the Day of the Dead” or “All Souls' Day” in Mexico, takes place on November 2nd to pay homage to the departed. Día de los Muertos celebrates life through music, dance, food, art, prayer, and family togetherness. Ofrendas (or offerings), as bread, candy, tequila, flowers, and pictures are placed upon candle-adorned altars as gifts to loved ones, while wood, clay, tin, and paper are transformed into skull masks and sculptures to exchange and display.

These are captures from the Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration held at Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside, California. This was an awesome event attended by thousands of people. This event use to be held in downtown oceanside, but this venue holds much more appeal (and people). The costumes and makeup were awesome. What a great event. A wonderful mix of culture, religion, music, and vendors.