weeks 8 and 9
Weeks 8 and 9 are combined. So there's probably way too much...
Grandkids
Work on the house
A family Weekend Away
More on electricity
Misgivings about the state of the world - I looked up the definition of "doomscrolling" rather aware that I listen to a lot of stuff that portrays a gloomy picture - one of the thoughts associated with doomscrolling is that it is more a reflection of one's protective nature. For example, it's all too late for me but I'm allowed to be concerned for my kids and grandkids. The important thing for me is to not bury my head in the sand and pretend that it is not happening..although I am consciously trying to minimise my worries by spending more time on these...
- Help someone else.
Learn something new. (my construction works are at a new level)
Listen to audio books
Participate in an activity or hobby. (learning all the time)
Spend time with family or friends.(not much)
Take a walk or exercise. (lots of this, but still not enough)
Work toward a goal. (the "new" house and upgrading the apartment)
It was delightful and a reminder that time marches on - grandchildren becoming world travellers - another two are in Japan as I write...and another is visiting in May - for them I have even planned a small boat trip into the Turf Route and on to Ken's Mooring in Wijnjewoude :)
Callum and Charley's main aim was to "see the Northern Lights" in Iceland - but they saw Manchester, Edinburgh, Amsterdam, Wijnjewoude and Paris as well.
Callum even went surfing in Iceland - presumably just so he can say that he has done it!
A restaurant meal, a game of Whist and suddenly they were on the train again in Heerenveen - on their way to Paris.
The House Works
We're 4 months in now and finally seeing some real progress - the plasterers are busy inside...
(as an aside - I had to buy a new pair of pants to go away for the weekend - I said "the usual 36-32" - the salesman looked at me and said "no way" ...and brought out a pair of 33-32, which fitted perfectly!)
All the electricity, TV and Internet cables have been buried in the walls - so I have been careful to make photos so that I don't forget - when I go to put up a bracket for the TV, for example.
135 sheep killed so far this year in Friesland - by wolves
Other Things to worry about...
Climate, Trump, NATO, Nitrogen, Energy
Weather/ClimateThis month is the warmest February ever recorded. The average temperature in De Bilt is expected to be between 8.1 and 8.3 degrees, Weeronline reports . The old record of an average of 7.6 degrees dates from 1990.
Surprisingly, this month was not only the warmest February on record, but also one of the wettest Februarys. An average of 110 to 120 millimeters of precipitation fell. This puts February 2024 in fourth or fifth place on the list of wettest February months since measurements started in 1906.
Port of Rotterdam Chief (Siemons)
Siemons said the government needs to ensure sufficient capacity on the electricity grid, a powerful strategy to deal with nitrogen-based pollution and to ensure sufficient, well-trained technical staff.
“I am talking expressly about the investment climate, not just the climate for attracting new business,” he is quoted as saying by the Financieele Dagblad. “It is of great importance to keep our existing industry.”
Most of the companies based in the port are in foreign hands and their headquarters abroad have to decide whether to invest in the energy transition here or somewhere else, he said. An additional problem, he said, are high energy prices in the Netherlands. Europe can only remain autonomous with strong industry, he said. “We need to keep the base chemicals industry here,” he said. “Their products are the raw materials for the production of many other goods.”
Rotterdam port throughput was down 6.1% last year, because of the decline in world trade, geopolitical tensions and the economic downturn. “The port reflects the global economy and in that sense it was a difficult year,” Siemons said.
Electricity Batteries
I read a story in Janny's Mum's newspaper - about a company in Harlingen developing their own huge batteries for storing the electricity they generate with solar panels. They have been getting lots of requests for battery installations and so the owner said that they want to discover for themselves just how useful they can be - if (when) the government removes the financial benefits of feeding back into the (highly inefficient) grid. The energy companies are saying that the batteries are not a viable business proposition - of course, they want people to keep buying their electricity - and the Government is only now seeing how much tax revenue they are missing out on. With profit being the main concern of Electricity Companies (and their investors) it is little wonder that they don't want people to generate their own needs and only paying for extra when required.
I have asked the company for more information...
I mentioned batteries at our daily Show and Tell - most seemed to think that it was too long to wait in order to recover the investment - but I think people buy things all the time without necessarily "making their money back" - maybe batteries will one day just be part of the normal investment in a house. In our own case, I have long argued that we "generate it here - why not use it here and only buy in what we need in the winter, for example"?.
This weekend, we were in Blokzijl with the whole family (44 plus Boeke) - . We are all staying at a fairly good Groups' Accommodation - paid for by Janny's Mum - with enough separate rooms for each family - and all with their own showers and WC's. - and a large communal area with two kitchens and lounges.
We walked into and around Blokzijl - one of our favorite boating destinations and a waypoint to others. I read again a small history - the lock and it's tax revenue for peat and other goods, the Spanish, the destruction of the Netherlands trading fleet. Before the advent of the reclaimed land the sea gates at Blokzijl were actually the gateway to the South Sea...the name of our Groups' Accommodation is the Zuyder Zee.
I never cease to be amazed at the reclamation works - boating through the flat land of the polders and thinking of the ingenuity and work required.
ChatGTP
I've been mucking around with a few free AI programs - as if I didn't have enough misgivings about the amount of disinformation already available on so called "Social" Media
- even I can see how it is going to get so much worse.
I asked ChatGTP to write about "My day in Wijnjewoude" - it came up with this...
(The bakery closed just recently and there is no restaurant - but apart from that, it could be Wijnjewoude - well, sort of...).
Title: A Day to Remember: Exploring Wijnjewoude's Charm
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Friesland, Netherlands, lies the serene village of Wijnjewoude. Today, I embarked on a journey to explore its hidden gems, discovering the essence of its quaint beauty and the warmth of its people. Join me as I recount my unforgettable day in Wijnjewoude.
Morning Serenity:
The day began with a tranquil stroll along the winding paths that meander through lush greenery. The air was crisp, carrying the sweet fragrance of wildflowers. As I wandered, I stumbled upon charming old farmhouses adorned with vibrant blooms, each telling a story of the village's rich history.
Cultural Delights:
Eager to delve into Wijnjewoude's cultural tapestry, I visited the local museum, where artifacts and exhibits showcased the region's heritage. From traditional crafts to tales of bygone eras, every corner echoed with the legacy of generations past. Engaging with locals, I gained insights into their way of life, learning about age-old customs and traditions that continue to thrive.
Culinary Journey:
No exploration is complete without savoring the local cuisine. I treated my taste buds to a culinary adventure, indulging in authentic Frisian delicacies at cozy eateries tucked away in the village. From hearty stamppot to delectable poffertjes, each dish was a symphony of flavors, reflecting the bounty of the land and sea.
Nature's Embrace:
Wijnjewoude is a haven for nature enthusiasts, and I couldn't resist immersing myself in its breathtaking landscapes. I embarked on a leisurely bike ride, pedaling through verdant meadows and dense forests. The tranquil lakes mirrored the azure sky, inviting moments of reflection and serenity. With every turn, I discovered new vistas that left me awestruck, reaffirming nature's boundless beauty.
Community Spirit:
One of the highlights of my day was experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the locals. Whether sharing anecdotes at a quaint cafe or joining in community activities, their genuine camaraderie was heartwarming. I felt embraced by the spirit of Wijnjewoude, welcomed into a close-knit community where bonds are forged over laughter and shared experiences.
Evening Glow:
As the day drew to a close, I found myself reluctant to bid farewell to this idyllic haven. I watched the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the landscape. In that moment, I realized that Wijnjewoude had woven its magic around me, leaving an indelible mark on my heart.
Final Thoughts:
My day in Wijnjewoude was nothing short of enchanting—a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and community. In its quiet charm, I found solace and inspiration, reminded of life's simple joys and the beauty of embracing new experiences. As I bid adieu to this gem of a village, I carried with me memories that would forever illuminate my journey.
Wijnjewoude may be a small dot on the map, but its spirit resonates far and wide, beckoning travelers to discover its timeless allure. And for me, it will always hold a special place as a sanctuary of tranquility and wonder amidst life's bustling chaos.
On a more productive note, and at Ben's suggestion, I tried to do some proper research using ChatGTP...
Posing the question "Compare the Cost of Living in Australia with the Netherlands"....
Overall, The Netherlands is generally considered to be cheaper than Australia when it comes to the cost of living. Here's a breakdown of some key points:
Average Cost of Living:
- Australia: According to sources like Livingcost.org, the average cost of living in Australia is around $2,305 per month.
- Netherlands: The average cost of living in the Netherlands is around $1,920 per month, which is roughly 17-20% cheaper than Australia.
City Comparisons:
- Major cities: While major cities in both countries tend to be more expensive than their national averages, Sydney and Melbourne in Australia are generally pricier than Amsterdam in the Netherlands.
- Smaller cities: Smaller cities in both countries offer a more affordable lifestyle compared to major cities. However, even smaller cities in Australia tend to be more expensive than their Dutch counterparts.
Specific Expenses:
- Groceries: Grocery shopping is generally cheaper in the Netherlands compared to Australia.
- Restaurants: Eating out can be slightly cheaper in the Netherlands, although the difference is less significant than groceries.
- Accommodation: Renting an apartment is typically cheaper in the Netherlands, particularly in smaller cities.
- Utilities: Utility costs can be comparable in both countries, although they can vary depending on individual consumption and specific locations.
It is important to remember that these are general comparisons, and individual costs will vary depending on factors like lifestyle choices, housing type, and location within each country. You can use cost-of-living comparison websites like Numbeo or Expatistan to get a more personalized estimate based on your specific circumstances.
Photos from our Family Weekend...
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