Going Dutch 2013: Boys- Unplugged

After only a few days here, Eric and I noticed something remarkable. The boys have been unplugged from their iPads, cartoons, iPods, etc and there is actually LESS fighting and more "boys being boys". As I type, they are outside playing soccer with the neighborhood kids and maybe even picking up more Dutch as they are forced to communicate without English.
They have been exploring the neighborhood, playing on the beach, and finding ways to entertain themselves. We have been super lucky as the weatherman has been way off and we are having beautiful sunny weather (which is totally out of character for Holland).
Gerrit (who tends to be our problem child) has been a totally different person. Much to our surprise. He has Dutch blood flowing through is veins and it is clear that when he is here he is in his element. We have had few angry outbursts, hyperactivity, and he is sleeping through the night. He actually eats his dinner and everything put in front of him. We haven't had to force feed him once! Anyone who knows us knows this is a huge victory.
Thijsie tends to want to do whatever Gerrit is doing so even he has been easier. Thijsie has been a bit more of a challenge, maybe because he is more like me. But overall he is also happy here. He eats everything in sight and tends to be the ice breaker when meeting new kids. He has never met a stranger. Even here.
Andy. Oh Andy. My poor, bored American son. He expected a lot more excitement out of this trip. The only thing he does is read. Hopefully we will have more excitement for him next week. I think he would much rather be home behind his computer. He is eating pretty well. He is willing to try everything we offer. He isn't as impressed with snack bar food as we thought he would be. Andy could take it or leave it. Maybe it's the teenage mentality?
It makes us very happy to see the little boys so happy. They may not ever want to leave Holland. Andy will be ready though.
This is to be continued.....