Matthew comes to Maastricht

I would like to begin this post with a realization that both Matthew and I have come to. Being in a foreign country is an extremely humbling experience. I have had multiple encounters with strangers, clerks, waiters, etc where I have felt like a complete idiot... No, I don't speak French, Dutch, German, or Italian. Yes, I am loud. No, I don't want to buy an alcoholic beverage. Yes, I will need you to translate the entire menu for me, please.

It's a good thing that Matthew flew in to Dublin, Ireland, where the only thing standing between him and the locals is a gnarly irish accent. After flying to Dublin, Matt spent a day by himself and then flew to Brussels the next morning. For real, he's a trouper. 

And SO WE MEET. In Charleroi, Belgium at 11:20 on friday morning. That's 4:00am for all you Americans. Needless to say, the man was exhausted. But alas, we found each other WITHOUT any use of phones or internet. Miraculous really. Just like a movie. Okay, too far.

Oh here is a picture of our shoes that I took right after we found each other. Matchy matchy oxfords. 

Our adventure together begins! Due to the fact that Matt had been up for a couple days and we had gotten lost in Belgium on the way to my dorm, he took a nap. All night. 

Matthew takes a VERY LONG nap.

BUT, post sleeping we got the privilege of spending an entire day exploring the beautiful city of Maastricht, Netherlands.

Matthew carries dutch groceries.

Matthew eats the best fries in the whole world.

Matthew rides a bike through the countryside.

Matthew goes to the Market Square.

After a long day of shopping in Maastricht, Matthew contemplates the perks of European lifestyle.

Boy oh boy, it is such a joy to have my best friend here with me. Although I will need to stay focused on school, Matthew and I will still have plenty of time to explore the glories of Europe during the next 25 days that he is here!