10 reasons to watch the Olympic Games

The Olympic Games 2010 Vancounter

10 Reasons to watch

1. To check out the many cute boys and girls competing in tight outfits.
2. To cheer on our fellow countrymen and enjoy a rush of patriotic adrenaline.
3. To know what people are talking about and be able to join in the conversation.
4. As a distraction from a time of economical hardship.
5. For the thrill of watching an unknown win it all and know ''we were there from the beginning''.
6. To be reminded of our own dream and potential.
7. To keep an eye out for any scandal that might arise.
8. To broaden our horizons and explore different interests.
9. As an excuse to rub up against the boy/girl you like when your favourite wins.
10. Because it's the most exciting thing on TV right now!

2010 - a cold and snowy beginning

So far 2010 isn't too promising - snow dominates the globe and an unprecedented cold has mastered our once green fields without much intention of letting go. In the North of Holland, it has been a depressing few weeks and I am longing for spring.
What's not to like about spring? The weather starts to improve, cute lambs traipse about and colour returns to the earth in the form of flowers, plants and perfectly blue skies. Let us forget about the winter mists, the frozen earth, the empty streets and the grey landscapes that stretch out before us.


It has been the main reason for my hiatus regarding this blog. Who can write when winter dampens their spirits, transport stays asleep and the fireplace beckons? Such is my life at present and I am not alone in this predicament. Nevertheless, I will try to resume my weekly activities so I'll start 2010 with a few trailers for movies to watch this month. But first let's have some pretty pictures of the coming spring to prepare us for happier, sunnier times, wich are sure to come!

Don't you just feel the snow melting when you look at these pictures? Just close your eyes for a moment, visualise these images and imagine yourself there - between the flowers, taking in their scent, listening to the birds. We all need these small delights to look foward to; that rock concert next month, watching your favourite movie with friends or the coming spring. Happiness is in the small things.

Happiness is in watching a butterfly nourish itself from a flower or the clouds racing across the sky. It's not in winning 10 million, although it may seem that way at first. So does winter not offer any delights, then? Sure, it does. Drinking hot coacoa near the fire, cuddling on the sofa with that special someone when you're cold,  making photographs of a snow-coated landscape. But we get bored - it's what we do. Snow can only satisfy us for so long. The same cannot be said for spring. With its mild temperatures, it fails to annoy and with its pretty sights, it is sure to entertain.

It offers us many activities: going out for a picnic (how about trying high-tea British style?), exploring the woods to admire the waking wildlife, reading out of doors, painting some ridiculous stick-figure version of the family barbecue in the backyard, gardening or going hiking. So start planning, make a scrapbook of your spring plans and relish the anticipation. Before you'll know it, spring will come knocking on your door.

Ode to Christmas

The fairy queen assumes her throne
And bids her minions fetch her snow
And as she shivers – cold, alone
The fireflies to snowland row
Upon arrival, bags are stuffed
And soon presented to the queen
And so the snowflakes tip-toe down
And reach the earth, unforeseen

Standing tall, a fine tree sparkles
Makes our wintry houses gleam
We hold a beaker full of chocolate
With a dollop of whipped cream
Our parted lips embrace the sweetness
That this pleasure with it brings
And we’re greeted on the doorstep
By a boy who gaily sings

Next is the exchange of presents
Gift-wrapped sweet with poems too
Succeeded by a smile delighted
That affection wins anew
Socks are annually purchased
And accepted gracefully
But the Jackpot sweater given
Is the gift we long to see

Wondrous, too, our Christmas dinner
Pears prepared with a glühwein taste
Accompanied by a juicy turkey
Our cook need not yet be replaced
And so we eat and drink and laugh
And Christmas passes merrily
Let me say on your behalf
There’s nowhere else I’d rather be

Fashion: Vanity Fair

Yes, I know this is an old shoot. But that doesn't diminish its genius.

Seasons: Winter Wonderland

Winter has officially arrived in the North of Holland and a thick layer of snow covers every tree, flower and field. Naturally, a snow-sprinkled landscape is charming and worth seeing, so my aunt took some photographs in our backyard. Behold winter's embrace and count your blessings if you are not troubled by the consequences as I was this mornings. All trains and busses were either delayed or cancelled completely and it seemed impossible to reach any destination swiftly while winter reigned surpreme in the neighbouring towns.

Architecture: London

This is the final post of my London report and I decided to save the best till last, namely the architecture of the city. It has many gothic influences while The City is home to many modern landmarks. On the whole, it is a city of extremes and different tastes as you will see below.

Museum Tip: Hermitage, Amsterdam

Yes, there is a Hermitage in Amsterdam too since recently and it's certainly worth a visit. Its Russian counterpart transported some of its regal treasures to the Netherlands for a lovely exposition entitled: At Russian Court.

It features some of the most beautiful costumes, paintings and accessories life with the Romanovs had to offer and is not to be missed. It is a very extensive exposition and the museum has been remodelled after the winter palace for this special occasion ie. a ball room with moving platforms that spins the gowns around and a throne room where Paul I's actual throne can be found facing a row of subjects.

Naturally, we were not allowed to take photographs, but I ''borrowed'' the following from newspapers, etc.

The dress above was one of my favourites. It dates from around 1820 and is truly princess-worthy! That being said, I wouldn't mind owning any of the displayed dresses. Or any of the shoes. Or the handbags. Or the umbrellas. Or....you get the picture. The exposition runs until the 31th of January so hurry up if you want to see it!

For further info: http://www.hermitage.nl/en/