Day 8

Yesterday was somewhat of an emotional day for us here in Holland. Not only was it our very last day in our little town of Valkenburg, but we also paid a visit to the American WWII Cemetery. This cemetery, found in the village of Margraten, is a gift from the Netherlands in honor of the American soldiers who collectively fought to help liberate Europe. 
As we all walked through the perfectly groomed green grass, we observed the unsettlingly large amount of headstones (which was approximately 8,301). We also paid our respects to the soldiers who valiantly fought for freedom and justice across the World. Some of us said a prayer in the chapel located in the tower, in honor of these soldiers.

"Here we and all who shall hereafter live in freedom will be reminded that these men and their comrades we owe a debt to be paid with grateful remembrance of their sacrifice and with the high resolve that the cause for which they died shall live"

On a happier note, we all got to experience something that not many people can say they have done! We were in three places at once--literally. We visited the point where Germany, Belgium, and Holland all meet. Some of us fearfully traveled up to the top of a tower that had an amazing view at the highest point in Holland.

After enjoying a group lunch we traveled back to Valnkenburg for some fun activities! After luging down a large hill a few times, close to all of us ziplined down from the very top of a church tower. We then had a "friendly" match of laser tag, where Julie aka "Slasher" had the most hits at 25000 points with Rachel, "Kryptonite" in a close second. Although I unfortunately don't excel in laser tag I was only in fourth to last place as Joel took dead last! Its okay though, because according to him he was the "sacrifice".


After a long day of activities we all had dinner together at the hotel. Then we were able to enjoy a generous amount of free-time which we spent roming the streets of Valkenburg once more. Knowing we were leaving for Amsterdam the next morning we made sure to have our last visit to our favorite place--The Snack-Bar--and hang out as a team to celebrate Abby's 20th birthday!


-Bitts