What made me happy today? Getting to spend a lot of time with my family and some of my favorite people :-)
It's Easter today for some people. Others are celebrating Pesach or just the fact that it's Sunday. I don't particularly celebrate Easter, although I don't mind getting some chocolate eggs ;-) I live in a pretty traditionally oriented country. So I'll be driving through half the land today :-) Lunch at one side of the country, followed by dinner at the other side.
Have a fun day, whatever you celebrate and how you choose to celebrate it! Stay warm and safe!
And for those of you who understand Dutch, please find a link to one of my favorite Easter songs here :-)
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Pimp my suitcase
What made me happy today? Pimping my suitcase :-)
As I mentioned before I'll have to go on a businesstrip pretty soon. Unfortunately, today I realized that I only have a large suitcase and some smaller weekend bags. But nothing suited for a short stay abroad and airtravel. So I went out and bought a trolley.
As you can see it's a pretty generic black suitcase. In order to be able to swiftly recognize it at the airport, I decided to 'pimp' my suitcase. And what better place to get some stuff to achieve my goal with than the Metalzone? I dashed in there, chose a new CD (for the curious ones among you: 'Vanity is a virtue' by Nicodemus') and started choosing some stickers. After a fun chat with Wim, I took everything back home and started puzzling.
The end-result is not too shabby if I say so myself.
My little suitcase is now proudly featuring stickers from following bands: Cradle of Filth, Ramones, Opeth, Sonata Artica, Nightwish and Slipknot. So cool!
I'm just wondering what they'll think of it at the airport :-)
Oh, and Wim, if you're reading this: thanks for the little Easter egg I found in my bag, it was very tasty :-)
As I mentioned before I'll have to go on a businesstrip pretty soon. Unfortunately, today I realized that I only have a large suitcase and some smaller weekend bags. But nothing suited for a short stay abroad and airtravel. So I went out and bought a trolley.
As you can see it's a pretty generic black suitcase. In order to be able to swiftly recognize it at the airport, I decided to 'pimp' my suitcase. And what better place to get some stuff to achieve my goal with than the Metalzone? I dashed in there, chose a new CD (for the curious ones among you: 'Vanity is a virtue' by Nicodemus') and started choosing some stickers. After a fun chat with Wim, I took everything back home and started puzzling.
The end-result is not too shabby if I say so myself.
My little suitcase is now proudly featuring stickers from following bands: Cradle of Filth, Ramones, Opeth, Sonata Artica, Nightwish and Slipknot. So cool!
I'm just wondering what they'll think of it at the airport :-)
Oh, and Wim, if you're reading this: thanks for the little Easter egg I found in my bag, it was very tasty :-)
Friday, March 29, 2013
Long weekends
What made me happy today? it's weekend, and a three day weekend at that!
Who doesn't love long weekends? You have an extra day to do stuff. And no work on Monday! What's not to like? April 1st is a Bank holiday here, and no, it's no joke!
As it's Easter this weekend I'll be driving around quite a bit to visit family. And I don't mind one bit :-) Gives me a chance to practice my driving.
So enjoy your long weekend and stay safe!
Who doesn't love long weekends? You have an extra day to do stuff. And no work on Monday! What's not to like? April 1st is a Bank holiday here, and no, it's no joke!
As it's Easter this weekend I'll be driving around quite a bit to visit family. And I don't mind one bit :-) Gives me a chance to practice my driving.
So enjoy your long weekend and stay safe!
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Flight of fancy
What made me happy today? I get to travel for work!
Soon, I'll have to go abroad for a few days, on a business trip. I live in Belgium and have to go to the Netherlands. It's not that far. So I figured the meeting organizers would send me train tickets. Boy, was I wrong!
I got airplane tickets. I'm flying from Belgium to the Netherlands. Fancy! Strange thing is that my other colleagues (based in the same country) are going either by car or by train. But as I'm a very recent addition to the project, there may not have been any seats left on the train.
So I get to fly :-) Which is kind of cool!
Soon, I'll have to go abroad for a few days, on a business trip. I live in Belgium and have to go to the Netherlands. It's not that far. So I figured the meeting organizers would send me train tickets. Boy, was I wrong!
I got airplane tickets. I'm flying from Belgium to the Netherlands. Fancy! Strange thing is that my other colleagues (based in the same country) are going either by car or by train. But as I'm a very recent addition to the project, there may not have been any seats left on the train.
So I get to fly :-) Which is kind of cool!
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Honk honk!
What made me happy today? Seeing a very cool truckdriver!
Work today ment being picked up by a co-worker, driving two hours to a hospital and then start doing our word there. But it seems like the traffic gids were smiling upon us. Not only were almost all traffic jams in the other direction, both when going and coming back, but I also saw one of the coolest truck drivers ever!
He had a full sleeve tattoo on his left arm, several piecings in his left ear, had long white hair and goatee. And to finish off the cool: he was smoking a pipe! Smoking is not cool and really unhealthy, but pipes have this certain je-ne-sais-quoi. And it just suited him.
Apologies for the late and short post, but I just got home and still need to eat :-s
Work today ment being picked up by a co-worker, driving two hours to a hospital and then start doing our word there. But it seems like the traffic gids were smiling upon us. Not only were almost all traffic jams in the other direction, both when going and coming back, but I also saw one of the coolest truck drivers ever!
He had a full sleeve tattoo on his left arm, several piecings in his left ear, had long white hair and goatee. And to finish off the cool: he was smoking a pipe! Smoking is not cool and really unhealthy, but pipes have this certain je-ne-sais-quoi. And it just suited him.
Apologies for the late and short post, but I just got home and still need to eat :-s
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Sunshine!
What made me happy today? The sun is shining!
It's still pretty cold for this time of year, there's a pretty chilly wind but the sun is shining. It's been a long, cold winter. I'm very happy it's almost over. Although I must admit that I had the same thought at the start of March. And then it decided to snow again last weekend. But lets hope that was the last of it for the time being.
I'm also happy that driving to and from work went a bit better today. Yesterday I made the engine stop once. Not today! Seems I found the trick to drive this car, as there is a difference between a diesel and a gasoline car. I learned to drive a diesel. Now I'm driving the gasoline car and it's a slightly different technique. But I'll get there :-)
And on top of all that, I have a delicious dinner planned. I'm going to cook it whiile listening to ORE :-)
Needless to say, I'm a very happy girl today :-)
It's still pretty cold for this time of year, there's a pretty chilly wind but the sun is shining. It's been a long, cold winter. I'm very happy it's almost over. Although I must admit that I had the same thought at the start of March. And then it decided to snow again last weekend. But lets hope that was the last of it for the time being.
I'm also happy that driving to and from work went a bit better today. Yesterday I made the engine stop once. Not today! Seems I found the trick to drive this car, as there is a difference between a diesel and a gasoline car. I learned to drive a diesel. Now I'm driving the gasoline car and it's a slightly different technique. But I'll get there :-)
And on top of all that, I have a delicious dinner planned. I'm going to cook it whiile listening to ORE :-)
Needless to say, I'm a very happy girl today :-)
Monday, March 25, 2013
Time saved
What made me happy today? Saving time!
For a little longer than the past 5.5 years I took the bus to work. Environment friendly, yes. But time efficient? Not so much.
Today I drove the car to work for the first time. I reduced my morning commute by half and my evening commute by a third. Which means I'll have ti rush less and have more time for hobbies! Yay :-)
For a little longer than the past 5.5 years I took the bus to work. Environment friendly, yes. But time efficient? Not so much.
Today I drove the car to work for the first time. I reduced my morning commute by half and my evening commute by a third. Which means I'll have ti rush less and have more time for hobbies! Yay :-)
Sunday, March 24, 2013
The car
What made me happy today? Driving the car by myself for the first time!
My car came today, and of course I had to take it for a drive. It took some getting used to, but after a while I got the feel for the car and it went great.
I got lucky as well, the roads opened up around nooon. Yes, we had snow again. So I was a bit worried about going for a drive, but it turned out okay.
Kind of exited, as I might drive to work tomorrow instead of taking the bus :-)
Now to figure out how the GPS works...
My car came today, and of course I had to take it for a drive. It took some getting used to, but after a while I got the feel for the car and it went great.
I got lucky as well, the roads opened up around nooon. Yes, we had snow again. So I was a bit worried about going for a drive, but it turned out okay.
Kind of exited, as I might drive to work tomorrow instead of taking the bus :-)
Now to figure out how the GPS works...
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Homemade dryer sheets
What made me happy today? Homemade dryer sheets!
I love using dryer sheets. They make my laundry super soft and make it smell extra nice as well. Unfortunately, they are also pretty pricey. So I decided to make my own dryer sheets. It's pretty simple, a lot cheaper and you can use the scent you want them to have.
There's two ways of making them. The first one involves just soaking dishrags or any other cloth in full-strength fabric softener, after which you let the sheets dry. Once dry, just toss one in your dryer.
But the second method is my favorite. It involves a bit more work but I like the results better.
What you need is this:
- +/- 60 ml of vinegar (it's a natural softener)
- 8 drops of essential oil (you can choose the scent, I like lavender)
- a sealable container
- cotton cloths (although any dryer safe material will work)
How to make them:
- Cut the cotton cloth into smaller pieces. Fold them and put the cloths into the sealable container.
- Mix the vinegar and essential oil in a small bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the cloths until they are damp, but not soaked. Close the container.
- To use, simply take one sheet out of the container, squeeze out any excess liquid and toss into the dryer.
Enjoy your soft and lightly scented laundry :-)
I love using dryer sheets. They make my laundry super soft and make it smell extra nice as well. Unfortunately, they are also pretty pricey. So I decided to make my own dryer sheets. It's pretty simple, a lot cheaper and you can use the scent you want them to have.
There's two ways of making them. The first one involves just soaking dishrags or any other cloth in full-strength fabric softener, after which you let the sheets dry. Once dry, just toss one in your dryer.
But the second method is my favorite. It involves a bit more work but I like the results better.
What you need is this:
- +/- 60 ml of vinegar (it's a natural softener)
- 8 drops of essential oil (you can choose the scent, I like lavender)
- a sealable container
- cotton cloths (although any dryer safe material will work)
How to make them:
- Cut the cotton cloth into smaller pieces. Fold them and put the cloths into the sealable container.
- Mix the vinegar and essential oil in a small bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the cloths until they are damp, but not soaked. Close the container.
- To use, simply take one sheet out of the container, squeeze out any excess liquid and toss into the dryer.
Enjoy your soft and lightly scented laundry :-)
Friday, March 22, 2013
I volunteer!
What made me happy today? I volunteer! I volunteer as tribute!
Nah, just kidding. I won't be participating in the Hunger Games, as I'm lucky enough to be too old for the reapings. Plus, it's fiction ;-)
But I am now an official volunteer for the Red Cross. They can always use more volunteers, and as a nurse, I felt like it was the right choice. So soon I'll be helping out with first aid etc. at local festivals and events.
Why did I do this? Well, I have a bit more free time on my hands these days. And after taking a course with the Red Cross a little while back I found out that they're almost always in need of more volunteers. As a nurse, it just seemed to be the right fit for me. So I sent them an email for some additional information and signed the paperwork. So I'm now officially volunteering for them.
It feels nice to give something back :-)
Nah, just kidding. I won't be participating in the Hunger Games, as I'm lucky enough to be too old for the reapings. Plus, it's fiction ;-)
But I am now an official volunteer for the Red Cross. They can always use more volunteers, and as a nurse, I felt like it was the right choice. So soon I'll be helping out with first aid etc. at local festivals and events.
Why did I do this? Well, I have a bit more free time on my hands these days. And after taking a course with the Red Cross a little while back I found out that they're almost always in need of more volunteers. As a nurse, it just seemed to be the right fit for me. So I sent them an email for some additional information and signed the paperwork. So I'm now officially volunteering for them.
It feels nice to give something back :-)
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Grow your own veggies!
What made me happy today? Planting some seeds to grow my own vegetables!
It's the start of spring today, although you wouldn't notice it by looking out the window ;-) but it seemed to be the perfect time to plant some seeds!
Even though I have a garden, I don't use it to grow vegetables in it. I only rent this place and can thus not change anything in the garden. I do have a cherry tree, which I'm really happy about, as I love cherries. I eat a lot of vegetables, and grew up eating mostly home-grown vegetables.
I noticed that I actually have a lot of space on my windowsills. After some research I found out that a lot of vegetables and herbs can be grown indoors as well. Decision made. I went out and got some soil, pots and two kinds of seeds. Today I planted peppers and radishes. I'm curious to see if and how they'll grow.
Besides, planting and growing my own vegetables made me happy for some reason. I'm growing plants :-) Of course, I'll keep you updated on the progress the plants make!
It's the start of spring today, although you wouldn't notice it by looking out the window ;-) but it seemed to be the perfect time to plant some seeds!
Even though I have a garden, I don't use it to grow vegetables in it. I only rent this place and can thus not change anything in the garden. I do have a cherry tree, which I'm really happy about, as I love cherries. I eat a lot of vegetables, and grew up eating mostly home-grown vegetables.
I noticed that I actually have a lot of space on my windowsills. After some research I found out that a lot of vegetables and herbs can be grown indoors as well. Decision made. I went out and got some soil, pots and two kinds of seeds. Today I planted peppers and radishes. I'm curious to see if and how they'll grow.
Besides, planting and growing my own vegetables made me happy for some reason. I'm growing plants :-) Of course, I'll keep you updated on the progress the plants make!
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Elfen Lied
What made me happy today? Elfen Lied.
Yes, it's another anime. And it's another one that's really worth watching!
Unless you're a bit squeamish, in which case you shouldn't. This anime has a rather high body count, especially in the first episode (I think 23 in 5 minutes). They also didn't skimp on the blood. There's a lot. Plus some severed limbs and a demostration of how to kill a men with a ballpoint pen. By now you're probably thinking it's a horror anime but it isn't. An a small warning here, there is some nudity present.
The series develops a great character development angle, a new strain of human called Diclonius, some fan service (as always) and a lot of epicness. And break out the tissues id you're sensitive, because there will be tears. I know there were for me! Just be aware of the fact that this anime started airing before the manga was completed. As such there are some differences between the two story lines, especially towards the end.
Also, if you're an art fan: be sure to watch the opening credits, as it's drawn in Gustav Klimt's styke, with some El Greco handgestures.
Yes, it's another anime. And it's another one that's really worth watching!
Unless you're a bit squeamish, in which case you shouldn't. This anime has a rather high body count, especially in the first episode (I think 23 in 5 minutes). They also didn't skimp on the blood. There's a lot. Plus some severed limbs and a demostration of how to kill a men with a ballpoint pen. By now you're probably thinking it's a horror anime but it isn't. An a small warning here, there is some nudity present.
The series develops a great character development angle, a new strain of human called Diclonius, some fan service (as always) and a lot of epicness. And break out the tissues id you're sensitive, because there will be tears. I know there were for me! Just be aware of the fact that this anime started airing before the manga was completed. As such there are some differences between the two story lines, especially towards the end.
Also, if you're an art fan: be sure to watch the opening credits, as it's drawn in Gustav Klimt's styke, with some El Greco handgestures.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Picking up the pencil
What made me happy today? Picking up my pencils again.
I'm a pretty creative person. My preferred outlet for this is writing. I also knit. But on occasion I like to draw a bit. Not that I'm any good at it.
With all that has happened the past few years I have not felt like drawing for a long time. Especially not after the accident, as my hand was usually hurting too much. I would doodle occasionally. But last weekend I had this overwhelming to start drawing again. So I broke out my pencils and started having some fun :-)
Best surprise was discovering that I have a pencil in a color named 'Ultramarine'. Why did this make me happy? Well, I love Warhammer 40K. Ultramarines, anyone?
So yay for drawing again! And yay for cool names for colors :-)
P.S: no, I don't show my work. I'm too shy about it, and besides, I do this for me, not for anyone else.
I'm a pretty creative person. My preferred outlet for this is writing. I also knit. But on occasion I like to draw a bit. Not that I'm any good at it.
With all that has happened the past few years I have not felt like drawing for a long time. Especially not after the accident, as my hand was usually hurting too much. I would doodle occasionally. But last weekend I had this overwhelming to start drawing again. So I broke out my pencils and started having some fun :-)
Best surprise was discovering that I have a pencil in a color named 'Ultramarine'. Why did this make me happy? Well, I love Warhammer 40K. Ultramarines, anyone?
So yay for drawing again! And yay for cool names for colors :-)
P.S: no, I don't show my work. I'm too shy about it, and besides, I do this for me, not for anyone else.
Monday, March 18, 2013
Mechanic poultry
What made me happy today? Robot chicken's Star Wars.
Little back-story here: as a little girl I was a member of the local youth astronomer's society. This is where I saw Star Wars (the original trilogy) for the first time, at age 8. I fell in love immediately. Over the years I have seen 'A New Hope', 'The Empire Strikes Back' and 'Return of the Jedi' countless times. So many times actually that I know the movies by heart.
Of course, there are a lot of Star Wars parodies out there. Most of them I won't watch. Or I just don't like them. Space Balls for example. Sjeesj... But on occasion there is a parody out there that I can appreciate. The Family Guy ones weren't half bad. But today I came across the Robot Chicken ones.
They made me laugh. It's not completely a parody, they don't re-do the movies. They take a look at what happened after some of the iconic scenes, what happened to some of the minor characters etc. But what's really cool is that some of the actors from the original Star Wars trilogy did some voice acting for this parody :-)
So if you get a chance to catch these episodes of Robot Chicken, be sure to watch them. I liked them a lot, and maybe you will too!
Little back-story here: as a little girl I was a member of the local youth astronomer's society. This is where I saw Star Wars (the original trilogy) for the first time, at age 8. I fell in love immediately. Over the years I have seen 'A New Hope', 'The Empire Strikes Back' and 'Return of the Jedi' countless times. So many times actually that I know the movies by heart.
Of course, there are a lot of Star Wars parodies out there. Most of them I won't watch. Or I just don't like them. Space Balls for example. Sjeesj... But on occasion there is a parody out there that I can appreciate. The Family Guy ones weren't half bad. But today I came across the Robot Chicken ones.
They made me laugh. It's not completely a parody, they don't re-do the movies. They take a look at what happened after some of the iconic scenes, what happened to some of the minor characters etc. But what's really cool is that some of the actors from the original Star Wars trilogy did some voice acting for this parody :-)
So if you get a chance to catch these episodes of Robot Chicken, be sure to watch them. I liked them a lot, and maybe you will too!
Sunday, March 17, 2013
The song of lunch
What made me happy today? The song of lunch.
Or better: finally getting around to watching the song of lunch.
The song of lunch is a 45 minute mise en scene of a poem, starring Emma Thompson and Alan Rickman. Alan Rickman does the narrative as well. As I'm a big fan of his voice, this really made me enjoy this even more.
It's a poem about two old lovers who decide to get together for lunch. I really liked it and strongly suggest you watch it if you can find it!
Or better: finally getting around to watching the song of lunch.
The song of lunch is a 45 minute mise en scene of a poem, starring Emma Thompson and Alan Rickman. Alan Rickman does the narrative as well. As I'm a big fan of his voice, this really made me enjoy this even more.
It's a poem about two old lovers who decide to get together for lunch. I really liked it and strongly suggest you watch it if you can find it!
Saturday, March 16, 2013
My lucky day
What made me happy today? It may well be my lucky day today!
Why? Well, first of all I had a great night's sleep. My head cold seems to be a lot better as well.
And while shopping I got a lot of unexpected discounts. Who doesn't like that? It appears to be 'spring shopping' weekend here, which is why so many stores are giving discounts.
On top of that, I'm having dinner with my mother's part of the family tonight.
Can this day get any better? We'll see!
Why? Well, first of all I had a great night's sleep. My head cold seems to be a lot better as well.
And while shopping I got a lot of unexpected discounts. Who doesn't like that? It appears to be 'spring shopping' weekend here, which is why so many stores are giving discounts.
On top of that, I'm having dinner with my mother's part of the family tonight.
Can this day get any better? We'll see!
Friday, March 15, 2013
Comfort
What made me happy today? Comfort.
Today is a hard day for me. Two years ago on this day I got terrible news. My youngest cousin died. It's not easy, especially because he was only 17. We all still miss him very much. He's in my heart forever. And he may be gone but he will never be forgotten.
So I really had to search for something that made me happy today. Until I realised that whenever I feel very sad, I go back to comfort foods, friends and family.
Some of my favorite comfort foods are: soup made by my mom, oranges, chocolate, ice cream, melon and pasta.
Family because we share the same grief, and knowing you're not alone with your grief makes it a tiny bit easier to bear.
Friends because I'm lucky enough to have friends who know the right words to comfort me. Friends whose arms are open when I need a hug. friends who offer me a joke to try and cheer me up. Friends who I can call when I need them. I may not be the most popular person in the world, but I know I'm loved.
So being able to find comfort on a day like this kind of makes me happy.
Today is a hard day for me. Two years ago on this day I got terrible news. My youngest cousin died. It's not easy, especially because he was only 17. We all still miss him very much. He's in my heart forever. And he may be gone but he will never be forgotten.
So I really had to search for something that made me happy today. Until I realised that whenever I feel very sad, I go back to comfort foods, friends and family.
Some of my favorite comfort foods are: soup made by my mom, oranges, chocolate, ice cream, melon and pasta.
Family because we share the same grief, and knowing you're not alone with your grief makes it a tiny bit easier to bear.
Friends because I'm lucky enough to have friends who know the right words to comfort me. Friends whose arms are open when I need a hug. friends who offer me a joke to try and cheer me up. Friends who I can call when I need them. I may not be the most popular person in the world, but I know I'm loved.
So being able to find comfort on a day like this kind of makes me happy.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Rush hour is over
What made me happy today? No more rushing!
The last few weeks have been very hectic. Today is actually the first night in weeks where I don't have a course, a driving lesson, a physiotherapie session or chores around the house. So I'm going to enjoy some tv, a video game or two and a cup of tea :-)
The last few weeks have been very hectic. Today is actually the first night in weeks where I don't have a course, a driving lesson, a physiotherapie session or chores around the house. So I'm going to enjoy some tv, a video game or two and a cup of tea :-)
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Ready for take-off!
What made me happy today? It was my last driving lesson!
And because I did a pretty good job I get to pick up my certificate and 'L' from the driving school tomorrow!
So I'm ready to take off on my own, albeit carefully :-)
And because I did a pretty good job I get to pick up my certificate and 'L' from the driving school tomorrow!
So I'm ready to take off on my own, albeit carefully :-)
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Stay inside, warm and safe
What made me happy today? Being able to stay home, where it's warm and safe.
It started snowing again yesterday. I love snow, and even more so when I do not have to go through it. Luckily I was able to work from home today, as there was over 1600 km of traffic jams. Not to mention a lot of accidents. The buses were all running late, or not even driving at all.
I know not everyone has the luxury of being able to work from home on days where there is 15 - 20 cm of snow. I didn't either until a short while ago. Besides, working from home meant that I could sleep 2 hours longer, which I could really, really use.
And it gave me the opportunity to secretly laugh with my neighbor across the street. He thought it was a good idea to start shoveling his sidewalk while it was still snowing. Three times...
So I'm a lucky girl :-) But to those of you who aren't able to work from home: stay inside if you can, stay warm and safe!
It started snowing again yesterday. I love snow, and even more so when I do not have to go through it. Luckily I was able to work from home today, as there was over 1600 km of traffic jams. Not to mention a lot of accidents. The buses were all running late, or not even driving at all.
I know not everyone has the luxury of being able to work from home on days where there is 15 - 20 cm of snow. I didn't either until a short while ago. Besides, working from home meant that I could sleep 2 hours longer, which I could really, really use.
And it gave me the opportunity to secretly laugh with my neighbor across the street. He thought it was a good idea to start shoveling his sidewalk while it was still snowing. Three times...
So I'm a lucky girl :-) But to those of you who aren't able to work from home: stay inside if you can, stay warm and safe!
Monday, March 11, 2013
So long and thanks for all the fish!
What made me happy today? It's Douglas Adams' birthday!
The Google Doodle in his honor is really great. Too bad he can't see it himself...
I like books. A lot. I love to read, and dive into another world completely. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is one of my all-time favorite books. I regularly read it again. If you haven't read it yet, and you like science-fiction comedy, make sure to pick up a copy at your local bookstore or library.
Or if you don't like reading but don't want to miss out, you can always go to your local dvd rental store or media store and pick up a copy of the 2005 movie. It has Alan Rickman in it! (you know, the guy who plays Snape in the harry Potter movies).
Too bad Douglas Adams left this world too soon. But I'd like to add that I did particularly 'And Another Thing...' by Eoin Colfer. To me, this book seems like the perfect sixth part for the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy trilogy :-)
The Google Doodle in his honor is really great. Too bad he can't see it himself...
I like books. A lot. I love to read, and dive into another world completely. The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is one of my all-time favorite books. I regularly read it again. If you haven't read it yet, and you like science-fiction comedy, make sure to pick up a copy at your local bookstore or library.
Or if you don't like reading but don't want to miss out, you can always go to your local dvd rental store or media store and pick up a copy of the 2005 movie. It has Alan Rickman in it! (you know, the guy who plays Snape in the harry Potter movies).
Too bad Douglas Adams left this world too soon. But I'd like to add that I did particularly 'And Another Thing...' by Eoin Colfer. To me, this book seems like the perfect sixth part for the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy trilogy :-)
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Unexpected noms!
What made me happy today? Re-discovering a forgotten recipe!
I've had one very busy week this week. Today was the only day where there was nothing in my agenda besides chores around the house. It's a very grey day and we're expecting snow again. This seemed like the ideal time to go browsing through my cookbooks again. By doing so I stumbled across 'Texas cowboy cooking' by Tom Perini.
And that's when I re-discovered one of my favorite recipes for carrots. It's simple yet very tasty, but it's not suitable for children as it contains alcohol.
Carrots with bourbon sauce, for 6 - 8 servings. Although this may be less, as it's so damn delicious :-)
Ingredients:
- about 900 gr carrots, peeled and sliced into 2.5 cm pieces
- 60 gr of brown sugar
- 60 gr melted butter
- 2-4 tablespoons boubon
Preparation:
- Steam the carrots to your liking, depending on your preference for crunchy or soft. (I like them best when they're still a bit crunchy)
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter and bourbon, and simmer over low heat until thick. Stir well.
- Pour the souce over the carrots and serve while hot.
- Enjoy!
I've had one very busy week this week. Today was the only day where there was nothing in my agenda besides chores around the house. It's a very grey day and we're expecting snow again. This seemed like the ideal time to go browsing through my cookbooks again. By doing so I stumbled across 'Texas cowboy cooking' by Tom Perini.
And that's when I re-discovered one of my favorite recipes for carrots. It's simple yet very tasty, but it's not suitable for children as it contains alcohol.
Carrots with bourbon sauce, for 6 - 8 servings. Although this may be less, as it's so damn delicious :-)
Ingredients:
- about 900 gr carrots, peeled and sliced into 2.5 cm pieces
- 60 gr of brown sugar
- 60 gr melted butter
- 2-4 tablespoons boubon
Preparation:
- Steam the carrots to your liking, depending on your preference for crunchy or soft. (I like them best when they're still a bit crunchy)
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, butter and bourbon, and simmer over low heat until thick. Stir well.
- Pour the souce over the carrots and serve while hot.
- Enjoy!
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Big announcement!
What made me happy today? Being able to share my big news with you!
As I have mentioned before, in the past few weeks I took a course and an exam at work, in order to get a promotion.
Well, the results are in and *drumroll please* I passed! I did it! I'm going to be promoted! When that email came with my result I was so happy, I think I almost cried with pure joy :-) So all my hard work, all those long says of studying, all the fatigue etc. has all been worth it because I did it!
Yay! Whoopwhoop! Time to celebrate :-D
As I have mentioned before, in the past few weeks I took a course and an exam at work, in order to get a promotion.
Well, the results are in and *drumroll please* I passed! I did it! I'm going to be promoted! When that email came with my result I was so happy, I think I almost cried with pure joy :-) So all my hard work, all those long says of studying, all the fatigue etc. has all been worth it because I did it!
Yay! Whoopwhoop! Time to celebrate :-D
Friday, March 8, 2013
Girl's night out!
What made me happy today? Having a girl’s night out on International Women’s day!
About once a year, I have dinner with all my female cousins. This year it just happens to coincide with international women’s day.
Having dinner with my cousins is always lots of fun. I’ve mentioned before that I live some distance from my family and opportunities like this give me the chance to catch up with them and share important news in person. Facebook and other social media are great, but I still prefer to tell some people important things in person. Wondering what the important news is? Well, keep an eye out for tomorrow’s blog, then you’ll know :-)
It’s kind of nice that something like International Women’s day exists. In an ideal world, this would of course not be necessary. But we don’t live in an ideal world so I’ll take it :-)
I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone again, it’s always so much fun! Great food and great company make me a very happy girl!
About once a year, I have dinner with all my female cousins. This year it just happens to coincide with international women’s day.
Having dinner with my cousins is always lots of fun. I’ve mentioned before that I live some distance from my family and opportunities like this give me the chance to catch up with them and share important news in person. Facebook and other social media are great, but I still prefer to tell some people important things in person. Wondering what the important news is? Well, keep an eye out for tomorrow’s blog, then you’ll know :-)
It’s kind of nice that something like International Women’s day exists. In an ideal world, this would of course not be necessary. But we don’t live in an ideal world so I’ll take it :-)
I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone again, it’s always so much fun! Great food and great company make me a very happy girl!
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Add one to the list
What made me happy today? Being able to add another certificate to my list!
I took the Red Cross' first aid exam today. For me, it was the first exam ever I wasn't nervous about. And I passed! So I received my certificate, which I can now add to my growing list of degrees and certificates. My grandma is going to be right after all. If I keep going like this I'll be able to use them as wallpaper one day :-)
But on a more serious note: take one of these courses yourself. The Red Cross / Red Crescent organise them in a lot of countries. Or just Google and see where the nearest one is given. You may never need it, but your knowledge of first aid and CPR might one day save a loved one's life!
I took the Red Cross' first aid exam today. For me, it was the first exam ever I wasn't nervous about. And I passed! So I received my certificate, which I can now add to my growing list of degrees and certificates. My grandma is going to be right after all. If I keep going like this I'll be able to use them as wallpaper one day :-)
But on a more serious note: take one of these courses yourself. The Red Cross / Red Crescent organise them in a lot of countries. Or just Google and see where the nearest one is given. You may never need it, but your knowledge of first aid and CPR might one day save a loved one's life!
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Making new friends
What made me happy today? Making new friends!
Like I said yesterday, I'm currently taking a first aid course. I'm the only one from my company taking it, so I found myself in a room with fifteen strangers.
But as it turns out, I made an instant connection with the guy sitting next to me. Why? Well, he was wearing a Trivium t-shirt. So I struck up a conversation about it with him. He was surprised that I knew Trivium, and so we started talking about music. Turns out he's actually quite good at making lame pun jokes, along with his coworker. I've been laughing my ass off all day. And laughter is good :-)
Making new friends is fun!
Like I said yesterday, I'm currently taking a first aid course. I'm the only one from my company taking it, so I found myself in a room with fifteen strangers.
But as it turns out, I made an instant connection with the guy sitting next to me. Why? Well, he was wearing a Trivium t-shirt. So I struck up a conversation about it with him. He was surprised that I knew Trivium, and so we started talking about music. Turns out he's actually quite good at making lame pun jokes, along with his coworker. I've been laughing my ass off all day. And laughter is good :-)
Making new friends is fun!
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Easy peasy stuff
What made me happy today? Noticing that the course I'm currently taking is easy!
Of course it is. My company had the splendid idea to send the fully registered and licensed nurse to a first aid course... Kind of silly if you ask me, but in order to become first aider at work I have to take this course. Forget my nursing degree, forget the fact that I have two specialist nursing degrees or the fact that I have a valid CPR and basic life support. Nope, I have to take the course...
Oh well, at least this all means that these three days will go easily for me. And the exam on Thursday will be one I won't be nervous for :-)
Of course it is. My company had the splendid idea to send the fully registered and licensed nurse to a first aid course... Kind of silly if you ask me, but in order to become first aider at work I have to take this course. Forget my nursing degree, forget the fact that I have two specialist nursing degrees or the fact that I have a valid CPR and basic life support. Nope, I have to take the course...
Oh well, at least this all means that these three days will go easily for me. And the exam on Thursday will be one I won't be nervous for :-)
Monday, March 4, 2013
Chivalry is not dead!
What made me happy today? Knowing that chivalry is not dead!
There are still people out there who will hold the door for you, people who will let a lady go first through the door.
Or, people who will alert the girl distracted by her new work mobile phone about the fact that her bus is coming. I don't know who you were, but thanks for telling me and making sure I didn't miss my bus kind stranger!
(sorry for the short post, but I just had my first round of physio and my hand hurts)
There are still people out there who will hold the door for you, people who will let a lady go first through the door.
Or, people who will alert the girl distracted by her new work mobile phone about the fact that her bus is coming. I don't know who you were, but thanks for telling me and making sure I didn't miss my bus kind stranger!
(sorry for the short post, but I just had my first round of physio and my hand hurts)
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Romance
What made me happy today? Romance!
I'm a sucker for romance. Always have been! But I must admit that recent years have taught me to be more realistic in my romantic ideas.
Besides, science and realism can be romantic too! Like one of my favorite xkcd strips for example. Scientific, but also cute, sweet and romantic. Or the guy who proposed to his girlfriend, by writing a research proposal.
And then there is this. Made me laugh so hard! It might not be very romantic, but it is absolutely realistic I think...
Or how about some Portal hugs? Right this way :-)
Or maybe you prefer a more economic approach? In that case, this is the link for you.
Romance comes in many forms. And while I like to watch the standard Hollywood romantic movies on occasion, I'm perfectly happy with my own geeky, nerdy, sciency, realistic romance :-)
I'm a sucker for romance. Always have been! But I must admit that recent years have taught me to be more realistic in my romantic ideas.
Besides, science and realism can be romantic too! Like one of my favorite xkcd strips for example. Scientific, but also cute, sweet and romantic. Or the guy who proposed to his girlfriend, by writing a research proposal.
And then there is this. Made me laugh so hard! It might not be very romantic, but it is absolutely realistic I think...
Or how about some Portal hugs? Right this way :-)
Or maybe you prefer a more economic approach? In that case, this is the link for you.
Romance comes in many forms. And while I like to watch the standard Hollywood romantic movies on occasion, I'm perfectly happy with my own geeky, nerdy, sciency, realistic romance :-)
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Avengers for kids
What made me happy today? Watching 'Rise of the guardians'!
It's kind of like the Avengers, but for kids. Even though adults will like it too :-)
This 2012 Dreamworks movie wasn't a big box office success, even though it got good reviews. A shame if you ask me, because I totally love it!
It's a movie about how the Guardians (Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Sandman, the Toothfairy and Jack Frost) have to defend the children of the world against the Boogeyman aka 'Pitch'. The graphics are absolutely stunning. The story follows the regular path a bit, but is still very entertaining mostly because of the awesome characters! Yes, we all know them, but Dreamworks gave them a little twist.
Santa Claus: heavily tattooed, with a thick Russian accent.
The Easter Bunny: Australian accent, carries boomerangs which he can use as weapons.
The Sandman: can't speak so he communicates with images in (of course) sand above his head.
The Toothfaire: more of a manager in this movie, plus she's a fairy covered in feathers.
Jack Frost: chip on his shoulder, but loves to have fun.
The Boogeyman: pretty much as you'd expect him to be, but Jude Law's voice really adds something here.
So if you don't know what to do this weekend, I suggest you get a copy of this movie at your local video store / dvd rental place; put the kids on the couch and enjoy this one together. Of course, you don't need kids to enjoy this one :-)
Just make sure to watch the movie all the way through, as there are some extras in the credits!
(I know this is up really early; I have a driving lesson this afternoon followed by some social obligations)
It's kind of like the Avengers, but for kids. Even though adults will like it too :-)
This 2012 Dreamworks movie wasn't a big box office success, even though it got good reviews. A shame if you ask me, because I totally love it!
It's a movie about how the Guardians (Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Sandman, the Toothfairy and Jack Frost) have to defend the children of the world against the Boogeyman aka 'Pitch'. The graphics are absolutely stunning. The story follows the regular path a bit, but is still very entertaining mostly because of the awesome characters! Yes, we all know them, but Dreamworks gave them a little twist.
Santa Claus: heavily tattooed, with a thick Russian accent.
The Easter Bunny: Australian accent, carries boomerangs which he can use as weapons.
The Sandman: can't speak so he communicates with images in (of course) sand above his head.
The Toothfaire: more of a manager in this movie, plus she's a fairy covered in feathers.
Jack Frost: chip on his shoulder, but loves to have fun.
The Boogeyman: pretty much as you'd expect him to be, but Jude Law's voice really adds something here.
So if you don't know what to do this weekend, I suggest you get a copy of this movie at your local video store / dvd rental place; put the kids on the couch and enjoy this one together. Of course, you don't need kids to enjoy this one :-)
Just make sure to watch the movie all the way through, as there are some extras in the credits!
(I know this is up really early; I have a driving lesson this afternoon followed by some social obligations)
Friday, March 1, 2013
Lucky escape!
What made me happy today? My lucky escape!
I had another driving lesson today, the sixth one. Everything went fine :-)
At least, until I almost got hit by somebody driving the wrong bleeping way! Good thing I had just started driving after having to stop for a red light, and that I had to take a 90° left turn. I wasn't driving fast and managed to stop pretty quickly. The lady in the other car looked at me like 'why are you driving here'...
Granted, the situation at that specific crossroad is pretty complicated at the moment, as they are working on the road there. But she just kept on driving the wrong way! She seemed totally non-plussed by the fact that all the other cars were driving the other way.
I got very lucky! Good thing I never drive faster than my guardian angel can fly ;-)
I had another driving lesson today, the sixth one. Everything went fine :-)
At least, until I almost got hit by somebody driving the wrong bleeping way! Good thing I had just started driving after having to stop for a red light, and that I had to take a 90° left turn. I wasn't driving fast and managed to stop pretty quickly. The lady in the other car looked at me like 'why are you driving here'...
Granted, the situation at that specific crossroad is pretty complicated at the moment, as they are working on the road there. But she just kept on driving the wrong way! She seemed totally non-plussed by the fact that all the other cars were driving the other way.
I got very lucky! Good thing I never drive faster than my guardian angel can fly ;-)
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