Reykjavik

This is a very cool city. In fact, I think this is a very cool country. Immediately upon arriving back in Europe I am reminded at how far behind the game US architecture is. The national gallery that is a few blocks from our hotel has a series of pools surrounding it with fountains of moss that clean and filter the water as it recycles.

Last night before dinner Jessa and I roamed the streets in the hill behind our hotel. The houses are quaint, picturesque, modest sized dwellings with red roofs and cats on doorstep. Yes, fear not, I have found cats and if you start to pet one they come surfacing from all around. Eager to get some loving. The cutest was an orange one whose name tag said jkola. Or something like that- there may have been a slash through the o. I haven´t learned the Icelandic word for cat yet. I do know that I think Kronur is "women" and the other K word is "men". Opið is open. Although I´m not sure if that is the right funny looking d symbol. Everyone speaks English and doesn´t even seem bothered by it. I think they realize their language is impossible to decipher.

Last night Jessa and I did Reykjavik up right. Assisted by jet lag we lasted til 4:30am and had more than two brennevins (Icelandic schnapps). It´s true it never really gets dark although it´s pretty dark between 2 & 3 unless you look straight at the sky. Luckily our hotel has dark curtains which allow up to sleep any time of the day. Hence, the nap Jessa and i just took. We´ll adjust to the time change eventually I suppose. Besides, when it´s light all the time what does it matter? We´re allowing ourselves to move slowly... tomorrow the real driving and outdoor adventures start-- so does our budget. Things are pretty US prices but we´ve been allowing ourselves some splurges. I can´t imagine how horribly expensive everything used to be. I feel lucky i am able to experience this place.