Profile for Sophie

An unintended expatriate blogger behind Shady Even Sundry

Sophie van der Meer - Founder of Shady Even Sundry Photo: Shady Even Sundry

Hi there, I'm Sophie

I work as a project manager. I'm a parent. I'm an expat living in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

A few years ago, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary contract gradually turned into a new chapter of life abroad.

How It Started

Moving to Netherlands wasn’t in the grand plan. Like many international assignments, it started with a job opportunity and quickly grew into something much more significant.

The initial months were demanding — unfamiliar systems, new routines, fresh expectations. Daily tasks felt more complicated than they ought to.

City skyline in Amsterdam, Netherlands
Life in Amsterdam has its surprises. Photo: Shady Even Sundry

The Adjustment Period

There was cultural adjustment, unpredictability, and plenty of hands-on learning. Gradually, familiar routines took shape. We found spots that fit us, connected with other families, and began creating something that felt steady.

Why I Built Shady Even Sundry

Most online guidance was either corporate relocation tips or shallow travel content. What was lacking was a candid, everyday family viewpoint.

This site aims to fill that void by offering actionable advice drawn from real-life experiences in Netherlands.

What This Website Represents (And What It Doesn't)

This site IS:

  • Hands-on insights from life in Netherlands
  • Centered on family life and ordinary day-to-day realities
  • Updated whenever something actually changes

This site ISN'T:

  • Not a resource from a tourism board
  • Not a paid review platform
  • Not a generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our stay in Netherlands continues, along with the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll keep recording what we discover.

If you have questions about family life in Amsterdam or anywhere in Netherlands, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Best regards,

Sophie

Amsterdam, Netherlands