Yesterday morning we were delighted to open the curtains and see a sunshiny Amsterdam. It was wicked cold but so beautiful with snow glistening on tree branches and sidewalks, and the canals covered with sheets of crackling ice glittering in the sunshine.

It was the perfect day to stay inside with hot cups of tea reading and watching old movies like “Shop Around the Corner” with Jimmy Stewart. Early afternoon we bundled ourselves from head to toe then carefully walked the snowy streets, popping into charming shops to warm our bones and peruse the wares.

Before too long we were ravenous and freezing and returned to one of our favorite haunts: Singel 404.

Singel 404HS
1016AK Amsterdam
Netherlands
Telephone: (+31) 0204280154

This place has some of the best sandwiches any of us have ever had. My brother Evan brought two of his Army friends here for lunch and they loved the food so much that they said all future sandwiches had been ruined for them.

I like to think that all future sandwiches will be INSPIRED by them.

First take thick slabs of bakery fresh brown bread, spread liberally with pesto or guacamole and add toppings of your choice.

Evan and Ryan chose the tuna melt, Dad had smoked chicken with olives and Brie, and Kendra had ham, roasted sweet peppers and Brie.

I had guacamole topped with smoked chicken, sundried tomatoes, Brie and fresh herbs.

…and Mums had a luscious BLT topped with thick slices of creamy avocado and a sprinkling of chives.

What is your favorite thing to eat on a cold shopping day?

PS – Thank you SO much for all your wonderful notes and comments. ๐Ÿ™‚ You make opening my computer each morning so delightful. I will get back to you all as soon as I can. Much love!!