Moody sky

We decided to explore a different area of the city today when we did our shopping. Our tram stop was a 10 minute walk from the shopping centre and we walked through a neighbourhood that was very different than what we are used to seeing in Amsterdam. The buildings were much more modern and most of the homes were two story town houses with parking for cars in front. Bikes were hidden away. There were a few taller apartment blocks as well. There were parks, canals and trees throughout the neighbourhood, so it was nice, even though it was different.

Across the road in front of the shopping centre was nice with trees, canals and green space. However, the shopping centre was not a thing of beauty. Rather, it was a large, flat, two story, utilitarian square with an open multilevel parking garage on one side. No decorations. No plants. No trees. Just grey concrete enclosing big box and outlet stores. When we finished shopping, we left a store at the back of the centre to see the stark buildings across the road. The bare trees of winter did nothing to soften the scene. And, although necessary, the bright street lamps contributed to the harshness.

But, the sky... Tonight's sky stole the show. Hiding behind the clouds, the moon was very bright. It back-lit the clouds leaving this moody blue scene.