Today we visited a tulip shipping cooperative, where hundreds and hundreds of workers were moving millions of flowers, all just for today. I learned and gained perspective on the true scale of the flower trade in the Netherlands, and how vital it is to the economy and to their culture. I learned about a smaller cooperative that focuses on sustainable growing practices and the importance of supporting local growers. As a family business it was clear they relied on other families visiting, taking tours and purchasing food and drink at their establishment. It was a beautiful day out and I enjoyed sitting in the sun watching people admire flowers.

It was fascinating to witness the intricate process of sorting and packaging the delicate flowers, I am most surprised to learn that each bulb can be the result of many years work and is only worth upwards of five dollars each. This is surprising because it seems like the farmers take such care and so much time to nourish and produce these flowers.

Then we got lunch at the supermarket and talked a bunch while we ate. Soon, we will go out to dinner and enjoy a traditional dutch dinner, many laughs await I’m sure.