Practically Dutch

Its come to an end..

2007-08-03T12:25:00.000+02:00

Well, today is officially the last day i will be with the family. Well i say that, but what i actually mean is its my last day as there aupair.

Ineke, Robbert and the children are all going to Denmark or Tuesday morning for just over 2 weeks, then when they return Melissa will be here to take over my role. So really i dont feeli like i am leaving them.

But even so! To mark the begining of a new era i will be starting a new blog, i am not sure on the address yet but when i know i will be sure to post a link!

p.s. Me, Ineke and Robbert went out for such a lovely meal last night but you shall have to wait as it will be the opening post to my new blog!

Holidays!!

2007-08-01T19:13:00.000+02:00

OK, sorry about the huge blogging delay! Time just seems to have flown by!!

Because of this i will have to post a few blogs to update you on my shananigans!

Firstly : School Holidays

The kids started there holidays last week, Monday and Tuesday i had all three of them and Thursday and Friday just the boys (Caroline was locked in the basement)*.

OK - So Monday i cant for the life of me remember what we did, and suggestions?!

Tuesday we went to the Bal-lorig. We have been there before in the last holidays - its awesome. The kids love it, they run off, get up to mischief and play for rounghly 51/2 hours then return, exhausted and ready to go home!

I then speedied off to work, compeleted my shift and enjoyed my Wednesday off.

Thurday i took the boys to the cinema to see Shrek 3. It was fantastic. Now, im not a fan of the old Shrek films but this was a gooden.

Friday - stressful. Enough said. Me and Jack took the boys to the Ondekhoek. It was packed. The staff were useless and we stayed close to 5 hours. The day turned out well but it didnt look like a good start!

This week the kids have pony camp, galloping, trotting, skipping, jumping, you name it - they can do it.

*She was actually at her Grandma's house - you didnt actually think we would do that did you?!

I'm on contract!

2007-07-23T09:18:00.000+02:00

Well, not entirely.

I went to my boss a while back to ask for a contract at O'sheas as i need one to rent an apartment.

Ill see what i can do , he said.

Saturday, i went into O'sheas equipted with my Sofi nummer and passport. A few minutesa fter handing it over Jonny (my boss) comes back to our table and asks for a chat with me.

Its blimin marvoulous isnt it. Some 'I've got nothing better to do with my time' customer felt the need to complain about me. Why? Your guess is as good as mine.

If that isnt enough the conversation then went as follows.

'well, Rachel, we have a few new people on trials this week and if they prove to be really good then we will have to re-assess the situation and see who stays and who goes'

So basically, my job is on the line for no reason clear to me. Fabulous.

I've been biten. Again.

2007-07-23T09:17:00.000+02:00

Have you ever counted 32 mosquito bites on your body at any one time? No? Well stop telling me not to scratch them then.

I am so loving..

2007-07-20T14:13:00.000+02:00

Jimmy Carr.

He is just too funny.

If you go to the youtube website and search for Jimmy Carr you will see what i mean (unless your English - then imm pretty sure you know who he is..)

However, do so at your own risk - if your easily offended.. please re think your decision. Quite a few times.

Its about time..

2007-07-18T11:47:00.000+02:00

... i posted again.

This week, ive been sick. Not really really sick, just a little under the weather. Well, apart from yesterday when i woke up early in the morning, sweating like a pig in a blanket, shaking like a mad woman and feeling like the exploisive in my head was in 10 seconds to count down mode. And yet, i still had to work last night. Not to worry though, i lived to tell the tale.

Take Off

I went to watch the children i teach english too in there school musical Monday. Funny. I arrived at 7.25, show started at 7.30. Never mind worrying about sitting next to noisy children, worry more about the imature adult who insists on laughing, making funny noises and tickling his kids the whole way through. To be honest, im not really one to talk. I spent most of my time pulling faces at the kids on stage and laughing at the struggle to keep shtum. Take Off (the name of the musical - unless you were wondering) lasted only 1hr. There was then an interval for 15 minutes and the second half of the show began. Talent. Or lack of.. the first 2 girls on stage sang a song which was pretty good i guess.. then there was an accordian. Yes - you heard correctly. People actually play that thing. After that a lad went on stage to conduct a game hosted on de lamas. Basically, 4 people have to leave the room, the audience picks a person, a weapon and a crime scene. One by one the people come back in, each having to guess who commited the crime etc.. WELL, the person - Pamela Anderson. the weapon - Her boobies. the crime scene - McDonalds. You can imagine the cherades going on throughout this game. Hosted by 10 year old kids.

Mortens Birthday

Monday was Mortens birthday, you can read more about it on Inekes blog (sorry - link is on my side bar) We had such a nice morning with presents and stuff - and lots of delicious home made apple tart. At least i got the important bits in there!

Ok, well thats all for now chaps!

My Weekend..

2007-07-09T13:40:00.000+02:00

Kralingsebos

On Saturday me and Jacky boy went off to Kralingsebos. For those of you who don't know, Kralingsebos is a lake. One huge lake.

Around the lake there are three restaraunts (well.. two and a pancake house..) Anyway.. two were on the right hand side of the lake.. and the other on the left.

The left looked closer.

So we headed left. The restaraunt was closed. But of course by this time we had to just keep walking to the next. This is Jack taking a little rest.

After about an hour we reached the restaraunt, which to be honest looked far nicer than the first one we saw.. sat down.. had lunch and went on our merry way.

Saturday evening i stayed at Jacks, of course, calling for chinese and settling down to watch 'Crocodile'

2007-07-08T15:23:00.000+02:00

Wahoo!! I found my old template!

I promise i will find something more interesting to blog about soon!!

p.s. Im sorry for the lack of titles on my blog.. the mouse wont click on the title box.. any suggestions?!

2007-07-08T11:45:00.000+02:00

So!! I've been tagged!

The Rules: "Each person posts the rules before their list, then they list 8 things about themselves. At the end of the post, that person tags and links to 8 other people and then visits those peoples' sites and comments letting them know that they have been tagged, and to come read the post, so they know what they have to do."

8 things is pretty tough when i have already posted 50 useless facts about me but ill give it a go..

1. This is my first ever tag. See.. that wasn't so hard.

2. I wrote a post a while back about 'Dave' from O'sheas. He read it. Nobody told me there is a link on the O'sheas website to my blog.

3. I dont have 8 people on my link list to tag. Going to have to find some randoms.

4. I would really love to design a fantastic template for my blog but really have no idea how.

5. I am a complete chocoholic. And proud.

6. I don't like it when people say 'wow! youve lost weight! You look so much better for it!' What they reall mean is.. 'Frig me! shes no longer the fat lump of lard she used to be'

7. (i'm starting to struggle now..) Oh! I am the tastiest bit of flesh you will ever have tried. The mosquitoes told me. I have counted 34 bites withing the last 2 1/2 days.

8. I love horror movies, roller coasters and anything that gets my adrenilin pumping. Whilst on the plane to America a few years back i was sat next to some huge guy putting in his contact lenses. To be honest i blame it on him. He should have known i was watching a horror movie.. the cusion in front of my eyes was the clue.. it really wasnt my fault when i jumped, knocked his elbow which consiquentially knocked his hand which poked his finger in his eye and sent his contact lence flying across the plane.

OK.. so thats the eight complete.. oh p.s. I never really was a huge fat lump of lard.. just a bit porky round the edges..

Now i guess i have to tag 8 other people.. slight problem.. i dont have 8 people to tag so im just gonna tage the one.. Ineke.. this should be good..

Temp.

2007-07-04T21:33:00.000+02:00

This is just a temp template until i get a better one sorted.. i seem to have lost the old!

New Direction..

2007-07-03T14:35:00.001+02:00

I have decided to take my blog in a new direction.. i havent quite decided what direction that will be yet but watch this space.

My template will be changing again shortly.

You see, i am leaving the family i work for in 4 weeks time. Another new begining. Well, not a new beginning as that would indicate a fresh start and i really dont feel like i need another fresh start as my old start was nothing but fabulous hahaha.. However, i will be working full time at O'sheas (fingers crossed..) I have a whole bunch of new friends, there just seems to be a few changes going on in my life at the moment, therefore i am going to change my blog to suit them!

Dont hold your breath though.. it could take a while!

Watch this space!

Another little rant..

2007-06-29T10:40:00.000+02:00

OK, so i know ive been ranting a lot recently.. but i really have to say this.

I called an anti-kraak organisation this morning. To begin with i was put through to 4 or 5 differnet people. When i finally got to speak to somebody, this is what i was faced with.

'Hi, my names Rachel Cornford, i wondered if you could talk me through your anti-squat accomidations'

'PardON?' (Yes - ON is in capitals to put the emphasis where she did.'

I repeat the above line.. my names Rachel.. etc..

'Ik spreek nederlands' (said in a who the frig do you think you are to call this number sort of way.)

'OK, well could i speak to somebody that speaks English please?'

'Well, you didnt explain that you were English did you? you just went right ahead and spoke it'

So what may i ask was her little outburst all about?!?!

So now i am starting to get a little pissed at the way she is talking to me

'So you do speak English?'

'Yes i speak English'

'OK, well could you tell me about the anti squat accomidation you have please?'

'i have no idea what you are talking about - i think you have the wrong number'

At this point - if it was possible, i would have dived down the phone and put a stake through her heart. (OK, so maybe thats a little over dramatic..)

'No, i definatly have the right number, i was refered to you by a friend, i want information about the anti squat accomidation you have'

'We dont have anti squat accomidation, we get you to fill in the forms and put you on a waiting list'

Sorry - correct me if im wrong but has she not just completely contradicted what she said?

'Ok, well could you tell me how to go about it then please, where i get the forms etc..'

'Everything is on the internet - goodbye'

Everything may well be on the internet.

The internet is Dutch.

Seriously, some people are so rude.

Babys!

2007-06-28T16:28:00.000+02:00

Jack has recently found out that his step mum is having another baby in June.. blimy.. if our families get any bigger we could fill a school..

I'm one of six and he will be one of four.. that nakes ten of us to those of you who are not quite sure.. not to mention his mother alone is one of ten children!!! yes you read correctly!!

Anti-Kraak

2007-06-28T09:17:00.001+02:00

Anti-Kraak AKA Anti-Squat is an organisation that hires people to live in homes that will be demolished in a year or so. The idea of this programme is to preven squatters from taking over unused property.

Me and Jack are looking into being a part of this. There are several advantages, extremely low rent (100 euros a month!!) can be huge houses which would normally be 900+ a month etc etc..

The disadvantages are you could be kicked at with as little as 2 weeks notice. However, doesn't this make everything just a tad more exciting!!

Please let me know if you or anyone you know has experience with this sort of accomidation, it would really help us make our minds up!!

9 things that really niggle me.. (because i cant think of 10)

2007-06-25T18:15:00.000+02:00

In no particular order..

People who don't blog in English.. ENGLISH IS THE INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGE OF THE WORLD PEOPLE!!! however.. what annoys me more is people who dont blog in words at all.. just those stoopid little square things.. whats up with that?!?!
People who walk along the bike path.. The name gives it away guys.. BIKE path.
Remote controls with no batteries. How annoying to have to get out of bed every time you want to turn the channel.
Arrogance. Enough said.
People who dont practice what they preach, why tell someone to do something if your not willing to do it yourself.
My tongue. However, it is nearly ok now.
Rain. Have you noticed how the sun always shines when your inside and the rain always pours when your out?
Having to pay 3 months rent up front when renting a house/flat/apartment. Why exactly am i paying 750 euros to this woman for showing me around a house which i found on the internet?
Drivers who speak on there phones whilst driving, the law is there for a reason. I wouldnt mind so much if you were just risking your own life, but your risking the lives of others too.

Superiority

2007-06-23T12:52:00.000+02:00

This is one thing that really gets on my wick.

As you well know i have been working at O'sheas for the last couple of weeks now, everything going pretty well - even if i do say so myself.

However, last night was my first all nighter there.

The evening started off a little crap really, i was feeling really tired, hungry and fed up with my piercing, matters not being helped by a rather arrogant member of staff, more about him later!

Anyway, so as the evening went on (very slowly to begin with i may just add) i started to cheer up a bit.

I love working there, i really do, but i cannot cope with being spoke down to. By anyone. It is rude, arrogant and unnecessary.

Lets call him Dave. For arguements sake.

Dave* is a guy who i work with. Same level. Same pay. Same authority.

Dave has an issue with superiority.

Well, of course, i told him this.

I personally see nothing wrong or offensive in what i said, i merely stated that i do not appreciate being spoken to the way in which he speaks to me. To which he replied (i quote) 'if i am not a bitch, you will never learn' well, this pushed me over. I cannot believe that he was consciously treating me the way he was, i at least half expected him to be oblivious to his rudeness, apologise and get on with his life. But oh no, Dave here actually knows that he is a bitch, takes pleasure from it and gets an authorities thrill from it!!

I just cant take it. I find it so hard to understand these people that make there way through life believing that they are more important than others. I can accept being given advise, or even critasism from someone who knows better than me, which of course he does, being there a longer period of time, but to purposly talk to me like something he has just stepped in, patronise me and make me feel smaller than a pint glass is really frustrating.

Anyway, he also added that he treats me no differently to any other member of staff here. I replied that my issue is not with how i think he singles me out but with the way in which he treats others around him. I then closed the case and left. I have to work with this arrogant plonker again tonight. Should be fun.

*name changed to protect person or persons involved.

Little bit of everything.. all roled into one.

2007-06-21T12:14:00.000+02:00

O'Sheas is going really well. I love the pub, the people and the atmosphere. I have met so many great people, both behind and at the bar. My hours vary depending on the week. This week i have to work Friday and Saturday nights, from 9PM until 6AM!! tough ha! considering i have to be up with the children at 7.45 in the morning!!! need a bit of thought on that one please!
Jack got fired yesterday. Well, not exactly. Basically, everyone had an individual meeting with the manager yesterday. Jacks was going really well, starting of by congratulate him on how well he is doing. Leading to there next point of Jack not getting his promised pay rise untill September (Jack is earing a lower wage that every other person working there) Then continuing to say they are docking 40 euros from his pay packet as he forgot to put a spare rib (yes - a spare rib) in the fridge.. leading to Jack letting lose of a few 'rather rude' words and walking out. So, there you have it. House hunt on hold.
I got my tongue pierced yesterday, (sorry Mum..), Anyone who says it doesnt hurt is a liar. I have seriously never been in so much pain and the piercing seemed to take forever!! I haven't eaten since yesterday afternoon at 1 o clock and probably wont be able to for another day or so as i cant fit anything in my mouth besides my tongue!! Anyway, less about that, im sure i will love it when the healing process is over.. if it ever is.

Did you know....

2007-06-13T14:15:00.000+02:00

OK.. so i have completely copied this idea from Ineke but i am pretty sure she wont hunt me down and eat me for breakfast.

So.. Did you know...

Me and Jack went to a party in Utrecht last friday evening. It was soo good, there was about 60 people there, therefore very busy but it was nice to do something a bit different to what we usually do, plus i met a few new people which is always a bonus!!

My Dad thought Utrecht was the name of a nightclub.

I got the job at O'Sheas.. Wahoo.

The electric went at Inekes a couple nights ago.. only in my room and her room. Convinient seen as they were the only two rooms that electric was actually needed.

I found the upload disc for my MP3 player this morning.. allowing me to actually charge the bloody thing. Seriously, how much hassle has this little white cube cost me!!!

Me and Jack are still in the process of looking for a flat. On Monday we should have 400 euros in our savings. We need 2100. Donations welcome.

Mortens English is surprisingly brilliant. After our little translation session with Timo and Caroline, i think he felt rather proud of himself, boasting on the fact his English was better than theirs.

My Dutch lessons are going well.. simple, but well..

My Dutch teacher is trying to set me up on a TEFL course (i think thats right) to enable me to teach British English abroad.

I have had so much to blog about over the last few weeks but havent had the enthusiasm to write anything worth writing. Hence the bullet points.

And last but not least....

It is Inekes birthday on sunday.. she is going to be 41.. I think we are going to Hotel New York for breakfast on Sunday morning (However, i am not so sure i am still invited!!!)

2007-06-08T11:20:00.001+02:00

OK.. so i haven't been blogging to much lately, i have got loads of exciting stuff going on in my life at the moment.. i just don't have the inspiration to write about it..

I had my job interview at O'sheas.. i have my trial tomorrow.

Me and Jack are still flat hunting.. not going to good.. we have found loads, but they are all available immediately.

We are going to a party tonight in Utrecht, should be good.

Think that's about it.. see.. i really am struggling to elaborate on my life!!

P.s....

2007-06-03T12:47:00.000+02:00

Sorry about the lack of link list, i really have no idea how to add one to this new template.. here is Inekes blog link.

http://itaintmuchifitaintdutch.blogspot.com

Its worth reading. She can be rather amusing.

O'Sheas

2007-06-03T12:42:00.000+02:00

Well, as you may well know, the time has almost come for me to leave Ineke, Robbert and the Children, rest assured i will be visiting on a regular basis (as Ineke so nicely put it 'at the end of the month when our wages have run low and the fridge is empty) Although this may well happen, i am pretty sure i will pop by more often!!

In exactly 8 weeks time me and Jack need to have at least found a flat, and possibly even move in.

However, to do this we need money, to have money we need a job. Bringing me to my title, O'Sheas. I have an interview at the Irish pub in Rotterdam on wednesday.

Wish me luck!

OK..

2007-06-02T14:58:00.000+02:00

OK.. So i've managed to load this cute little template thing but i cant seem to edit the stuff on the side bar.. make sense?

Any suggestions?

UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!

2007-06-02T14:01:00.000+02:00

Please bare with me...

The Post Office

2007-05-29T14:26:00.000+02:00

I opened a Dutch bank account 2.5 weeks ago.

Oh how i wish i never bothered.

After queing in the 'pick a number line and wait your turn' for half an hour i was told i needed to queue at the information desk. So after another half an hour i opened my account and was told a letter would arrive with 2 weeks for me to collect my bank card. Super.

So, one week and 6 days later i am in town. I therefore decide to pop into the post office on the off chance that my card will be waiting for me. So i queue again for half an hour at the information desk. I give the lovely gentleman my information.

'Yes madam, your card was made yesterday'

'oh great, can i have it then?'

'no'

'erm.. ok.. why?'

'You need to have recieved the letter to tell you your bank card has arrived'

'well.. i know my bank card has arrived.. you just told me it has..'

And so on.. the conversation continued.. ok.. so i go home. Sure enough the letter is waiting for me on the door step.

So.. i go back the next day, i queue for yet another half hour, speak to the same man, only to find out this is the wrong letter. This letter gives me information about my bank card, and sure enough i need the letter to explain to me that my bank card has arrived at the bank, just incase i dont already know.

Yes, you guessed it, i get home and the letter is waiting for me on the door step.. yes,, the right letter this time.

So i go back the next day. The bloke that served me before isnt working today, so after another long wait i speak to the other guy who informs me i have just queued for a rediculously long time at the wrong counter and could i please pick a number and wait in line.

(Why, may i ask did the other bloke not think to say, 'Oh by the way miss, when you finally do come to get your bank card, with the correct letter, you need to pick a number.' Would that have been so hard?!)

So i pick a number.. i wait in line.. I'm told i'm at the wrong bank.

End of story.

So much to say!

2007-05-29T13:44:00.000+02:00

Well, since I blogged last, my mother has been to stay; It was so lovely to see her and spend some proper time just the two of us.

Mum's flight arrived Thursday afternoon (after a few minor problems about her trip to Rotterdam) she arrived safe and well.

We started her stay with a walk along the River/Canal/Pond like thing and went into town to visit Jack.

On the Friday me and Mum went for the 'nicest coffee you have ever tasted' coffee shop (of course a slice of cake was thrown in there for good measure), did a spot of shopping (mum bought me a lovely purple and white wrap around dress) and met Jack for lunch.

We went to the habour at Blaak for lunch (the same place we went for mine a Jack 1 yearer)

The Cube houses at Blaak, believe it or not they are actually flat inside..

On Saturday our plan was a three hour boat tour to see the windmills in Rotterdam, however, it was fully booked (that reminds me.. i must tell you about the post office system.. ill save that one for a post all of its own..) As it was a sold out tour we decided to hit the shops. Not that i am complaining of course! The Boat trip would have been really lovely as it is something i wouldnt normally do, however, i was in desperate need of some clothes. No longer!! I now have 2 new pairs of summer trousers and 4 new tops.

Sunday me, mum, Ineke and the children all went to the Dunya festival, you can read more about it on Inekes blog (sorry about the lack of link, not really sure how to do them, however her address is on my link list).

Dunya festival

Mum went home yesterday but her flight wasn't until later in the afternoon so we thought we would make the most of it and spend the day in Amsterdam. It rained. Well not all day. When we first arrived we went on an hours boat tour of the canals. I never realised Amsterdam was Venice II.

Me and Mum on the boat

After getting off the boat we decided to head towards the Anne Frank house and stop for food on the way. Well, lets say we got as far as food. And. It. Poured. Anyway, we sat to eat in a nice little pizzaria. It was dissapointing that the weather couldn't hold out for us but still, no point in mopping around. After some serious umberella buying we headed in the direction of Anne Frank (well, her house anyway) but changed our minds half way there because of the rain. Anyway, we ended up in a shopping mall, surprise, surprise. However, only a few minutes were spent here before realising the time and heading back to the station.

Mum cried. I cried. We said our goodbyes and the train left. Although it went very quickly, we still had a lovely time.

Now before mum left she gave me and Jack some money to do something nice with, so me and Jack headed for Madame Tusaudes. The pictures say it all.

Jack playing bongo's with the one and only Bob Marley

He just couldn't resist a grope..

And yet again.. he couldn't contain himself..

Soooo Daaan!!!

2007-05-24T09:44:00.000+02:00

On this day, one year ago, the man of my dreams walked into my life.

OK, really, it wasnt that dramatic. But, yes, me and Jack have been together one year today.

To celebrate we are going out to an Italian restaraunt for lunch. Yum.

Shall maybe post some pictures later.

Bal-lorig anyone?

2007-05-18T12:53:00.000+02:00

Last week the kids were on their school holidays, not that it affected me much as i was in England most of the week, but i did have them all to myself on Thursday and Friday.

Thursday we all went to the Ballorig, was sooo much fun.. as you can see from the pictures, a good round of Dungeons adn Dragons then took place!!

On Friday we went to the Cinema to watch Cinderella, well the Dutch one anyway.. and of course, our day couldn't end without a good helping hot Chocomel!!

These have to be my favourite pictures ever.......

..... do you see why!!

England!!

2007-05-13T14:12:00.000+02:00

OK, so its been a while!! Since i have been back from England life has been a little hectic!! Arrived home wednesday evening, had the kids all day thursday and friday and have been at Jacks for the weekend. On top of that i am trying to find a college to register for in September, along with accomadation and money!!

Anyway, the point of this post is to show you some pictures from my trip to england. So here goes.

We arrived into Bristol on Wednesday morning, was picked up from the airport by Sophie and drove down to Devon. Of course, the first meal we had had to be typically English, Jack having an English fry up and me Bangers and Mash. Good ol' Weatherspoons.

Wednesday evening we went to eat with Jacks Dad and Stepmum (Have you noticed our holiday has been mainly focused around food so far?)

Jack with his younger brother, Gabriel

Thursday lunchtime I met up with Joanna, a good friend of mine in England for a girly lunch and gossip (this was before i bought my camera so have no piccis im afraid) I had a lovely peking duck wrap and smoothie (still.. food..). Thursday afternoon Jack visited his Dad whilst i spent some time with my Mum.

In the evening Mum and Val made me and Jack the most delicious BBQ along with pasta salad, marinaded onion and home made BBQ sauce.. hmm..

Friday AKA my Birthday. Friday morning we went to Carlinos, a newly opened cafe/restauraunt in town for a coffee. After this i went to buy my rather lushus camera. I would show youa picture, but kinda hard to take a picture of a camera, have you ever tried? ANYWAY. Friday evening me and Jack went for a meal at the Hare and Hounds, where we used to work and met some friends for a drink afterwards.

Me and Jack before we went out

Us in The Hare and Hounds

Jess and Gemma, friends of ours

Jack with his Dad and Uncle

A friend of mine, Wendy and myself

On the Saturday afternoon me and Jack were taken to the train station by my Mum and Val, to catch out train to Reading.

Jack, Me and Mum

Mum, Me and Val

The day after we arrived in Reading my Auntie Lesley came to visit with my cousin Emma. As i havent seen her for over a year this was a lovely surprise!!!

Jack and Emma

We then continued our holiday in bedford with my Dad, Jodi and Brothers and Sisters. Heres a couple of pics of our last few days.

My Father

Me and My Sister, Connie

My Brother, Patrick

The End of our Holiday

Just a quickie!!

2007-05-08T20:50:00.000+02:00

Just to let you all know that i am still alive and well, am visiting England at the moment so will update you when you when i return!!!

My Dutch Birthday!!

2007-04-29T17:27:00.001+02:00

Well, my day began with a spot of present opening!! I really wasn't expecting this as we already had a wonderful day planned to celebrate my birthday but still! whos complaining!! Ineke, Robbert and the children bought me some amazingly comfortable and lushus flip flop, my hunt for them failed so Ineke helped me out!! Along with a box of Celebrations and of course.. after eights!! Ineke either forgot, or liked the idea that they make me incredibly hyper!! Anyway! who needs alcohol!! I was then handed a light silver bag. Incase i hadn't already recieved enough i then opened a gift voucher to get my hair done and a salon in the centre!! I'm thinking of maybe going blond.. Like Golden, not Bleach.

Ineke and I then began our City Safari. In the mail you recieve a list of three destinations and times in which to be there.

Our first was to visit a Morrocan Lady who served us a lunch of bean soup and filled pittas. Whilst eating we sat in a special room lined with special sofas with a special table in the middle with special pictures on the walls. It was a religious room. Thats the word.

Our second stop was visit a lady who would reveal our inner most secrets. And thats exactly what she did.

Last but not least we visited a modernised Mosque!! After thinking we would be shown around by some tall guy with a beard and hat we were surprised to see a young beardless guy in trackies!! He showed us everything, from the prayer room to the toilets! Although this bit was hard for me to understand as the Dutch spoken was on a topic i was not familiar with, the translated information was very interesting!!

After having such a lovely day Ineke and Robbert took me to Hotel New York for a meal with the children. After starting the evening with a glass of champaign next to the river I ate a mushroom ravioli with a truffle sauce accompanied by a baguette and crouton salad whilst Ineke and Robbert shared a mixed fish platter with everything from prawns to snails, lobster to oyesters and many many more paculiar species. Yes people. It has to be said. I ate a snail. Well half. And i more of swallowed it like a tablet than physically ate it.

I really did have such a wonderful birthday, it couldn't have been better.

CHEERS!!

Full Stop.

2007-04-27T14:44:00.000+02:00

Click Link.

Sign Petition.

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Online petition - KEEP NEIGHBOURS ON THE BBC

Compliment?

2007-04-24T13:44:00.000+02:00

One of my English students told me I sound like Lilly Allen.

As much as I like her music I am quite happy to sound nothing like her when I speak.

Guess this takes us back to the whole am I posh? Post.

Actually, i really dont care, and you shouldnt either.

The way we speak is part of who we are. If you would like to think me posh, go ahead. Likewise, if you would like to think of me as some common english bird, you are more than welcome to do so.. buyt I may put up a fight on that one..

Just a little slide show..

2007-04-24T11:24:00.000+02:00

Things that really nark me..

2007-04-23T12:39:00.000+02:00

People walking along the bike lane... Can you not see theres a path right next to it? If it wasn't for the huge possibility of falling off my bike i would bash there ankels.

Leering men... Sleeze balls.

Running out of shampoo... Remind me check next time before I soak my hair.

Having no change for the strippen card machine... Seriously now.. make a note slot please.

Watching half a film... To find the other half has been scratched.

People who wear sandles with there toes hanging over the end... Your gross.. either buy bigger shoes or tell your feet to stop growing.

To be continued..

My Reading list since February

2007-04-23T12:24:00.000+02:00

Man and Boy by Tony Parsons

The Time Travellers Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Wid Swans by Jung Chang

The Shining by Stephen King

Wives and Lovers by Jane Elizabeth Varley

Keeping Faith by Jodi Picoult

Perfect Match by Jodi Picoult

P.s. i wrote this post purely out of boredom

The drama of the MP3

2007-04-21T19:01:00.000+02:00

OK, so I have finally ordered, recieved and managed to work my MP3 player.

Let me explain.

Last night me and Ineke sat down to order my beloved MP3 player, super duper fantastic. The order has gone through.. or so we thought. Ineke then rang the help desk who informed us that the supposedly next day delivery wont actually happen therefore i have the option of collecting it from the shop or waiting for its delivery. What he failed to mention was that actually i couldnt collect it from the shop as my delivery will come from a different location. However, after the 40 minute journey to the shop the bloke said he was able to cancel mny order, refund the money to the card and start again. So, i did come home with the MP3, after paying twice.

Aftre arriving home, me and Robbert successfully uploaded the required software, plugged in the usb cable to find it didnt work. I tried everything. I called the help desk 3 times, reset the player, downloaded some other stuff from the website and tried again. Failed and went back to the shop.

After the bloke behind the counter had finished uploading the software to his computer he enlightened me that actually it is working for him therefore it is my computer not the player..

I then went home, tried everything i could think of, to finbd the installation disk had been left at the shop.. Fan bloody tastic.

Back to the shop i go..

Arrived home safely and have managed to get my mp3 player to work on Inekes laptop.

MP3 is now charged. Songs are on other computer. Lovely.

MP3 Player. No music.

Bit of a Bummer!

2007-04-16T13:30:00.000+02:00

Please excuse the punned title!

Let me set the scene for you..

It is a beautiful day in the Heart of Rotterdam.

A young lady, feeling rather summery dressed in a 3/4 length white skirt, top and white jacket mounts her bike to share lunch with her boyfriend.

Whilst on her journey she encounters a problem.

After trying to pull her skirt up at the back she realises her butt is exposed to the world. Yes. The zip has infact broken. Still clipped at the top but leaving a rather revealing naked strip down the middle of her arse.

In this poor girls state of shock she cycles in to the curb, almost toppling over, gains her balance (butt cheeks still on full display) stands up and immediatly backs against the nearest wall. After a few seconds of bright red cheeks (HaHa, which cheeks?) and intence laughter a 50 something gentleman asks me (sorry.. the young lady involved..) what is wrong and if there is anything he can do to help. The situation is then explained followed by the 'do you happen to have a safety pin' question. After this kind gentlemans rummage through his van he continues his search in the long row of offices she has backed up against.

After a long wait the gentleman re-appears with a paper clip. A paper clip I tell you!! What the frig was she suppose to do with a paper clip!!

Anyway, so the lovely young lady tries out this over sized paper clip, only to get it caught in her underwear at which point the kind man offers to help her untangle it!!!! Well!!!

After disconnecting the paper clip from her underwear she continues on her journey to meet her boyfriend (who may i add found the whole situation rather ammusing.)

They then went to his place of work to sort the problem. Unsuccessfully.

After much diliberation the young lady decides to just tie her jacket around her waste and have a look around the town.

Just when she thought it was over, her flip flop broke.

Leaving this poor individual to walk around exposing not only her butt to the world but also her bare feet..

The agonising, bare-footed walk back to her boyfriends work was topped by the wedge of glass dug deep into the heel of her foot. Once removed she continued her journey (cycling home bare-footed, needless to say) to arrive safely at her place of rest.

Yes, incase you were wondering, I am the young lady in the story.

These things can only happen to me.

Window Cleaners

2007-04-10T12:38:00.000+02:00

Just a thought..

I wonder how many people they have caught in the act?

Easter

2007-04-09T18:56:00.000+02:00

In Holland we have two easter days. Strange I know. As expected Jack had to work both of them. On the bright side this meant he had Saturday off, first time for everything.

Our weekend started with a trip into Ridderkerk on the back of a bike. Well, me on the back and Jack riding it. After a hunt for some super-stylish but also bug-like sunglasses we stopped for lunch. For those of you who know me, especially my mother and Jack know i have a tendancy to strop about things that aren't important. Such as the stoopid woman in the new Bread&Butter cafe in town who gave me crappy bread with my lunch.

Now, what annoyed me about this was as i was reading the menu i asked Jack if you can chose which bread you would like, he said he was not sure but he would ask, went up to the counter, ordered our food and came back. So, why may i ask did he order a fantastic crusty roll with his and i got some funny little fluffy thing???? Was not ammused. Got quite stroppy. We had a little lovers tiff. Then realised we were having quite an intence arguement about a bread roll. Laughed. And ate.

So that was that.

We then went to the new Ice Cream parlour next door, three scoops each please, white chocolate, tiramasu and cookie dough for me please and cherry, pineapple and some other flavour that i fail to recall for Jack. Super.

Straight after this (OK so maybe not the most magnificent idea) we went to the funfair. Couple of topsy turvy rides a complaint of slight sickness for Jack and a bike ride home.

Saturday night Jack went out for a poker evening with his friends leaving me engrosed with the film Twister and The Mummy Returns.

Bringing us to Sunday.

Waking up bright an early me and Jack left for Rotterdam, him to work and me to Ineke's.

Ineke's family came over, her sister with her husband and 4 children, her mother, two aunties and cousin, along with me, ineke, Robbert and the 3 children bringing it to a grand total of 16. Thankfully the weather was beautiful so we ate delicious pizza curtousy of Robbert, sat in the garden and tanned ourselves.

Sunday evening i went to Coconuts to meet Jack. Now, Jacks mother gave me a lovely dress, black and white, long sleeves, short skirt. I would say it is a classy dress, not slutty. Unless you wear it to ride a bike. Which, of course i did. I have to say, I am pleased Ineke wasnt about to snap a pic of this one!!!

Altogether i had a really lovely easter weekend.

Monday Monday..

2007-04-03T10:01:00.000+02:00

OK, so although i am still not 100% sure why Mondays where invented, mine seem to be getting better. I woke up around 7.30, was a huge struggle but the thought of being able to make it back to my bed within the hour was satisfying enough to get me up in the first place. Went downstairs, sorted lunches and breakfast and off i went back up to bed. Infact, i slept until 12.30. A very welcomed sleep.

After getting up, making myself look at least half presentable, doing a wash load and conquering a few shirts that needed to be ironed i left the house to get the kids from school.

Now, as i have told you before, Mondays are Judo days. So after the usual routine of getting home from the school, going through the whole 'mag ik televisie kijken' 'nee! het weer is heel leuk! buiten spele!!' (ok so my Dutch isnt all that good, i am pretty sure i am going to be corrected on that one..) eventually giving in and letting them watch tele for a few minutes whilst i get the bikes out of the shed.. only to find Timo's is missing.. bugger its still at the school from Friday.. OK, its only 3.20, we have five minutes before we have to leave..

'schoenen en jas aan alsjeblieft!!' so we ran over to the school, Caroline trapsing behind, grab the bike, run back, load the buggy to the back of my bike and off we go to Judo.

So that was that, how fantastic.

Anyway, Monday evening i went over to the office to do some cleaning, to break up the evening i had a visitor, 5 infact. 5 14 year old boys. One of which had dropped a top off the balcony upstairs and wanted it back from the office garden (the cat has just done a really smelly poo in the litter behind me.. blimey it stinks!) anyway, once these kids find out i am English, they obviously want to stay and chat,

'can we come and watch you work'

'No'

'do you fancy my friend? he wants you to be his girlfriend'

'sorry, i think you may be a little young'

'i may be young but my **** is mature for my age..'

'at which point i say my goodbyes and close the door'

Bought a little amusement to my evening anyway!!

Once the office was all spangly clean i went to Coconuts, yes, at about half past 8, jack didnt finish until 11.30, leaving me in the company of jerome, nermin and the security guy. Was a very funny evening, and they laughed at my blimin hilarious joke that nobody else found funny. i would enlighten you on it but its in Dutch and doesnt make sence if translated to English, sorry guys.

So, that was my monday, fantabulostic.

Lets spice things up

2007-04-01T19:19:00.000+02:00

So, i thought i would spice my blog up a little with a few photies.

Lets start with this one.. Haven't a clue what possesed Caroline to pull this face, shall try and convince her not to do it again!! Wonder who she gets it from.. Ineke or Robbert?

Morten and Timo getting kitted out for a a rather intense Roller blading lesson..

..and Robbert giving it his all!!

Morten trying to mimic Dad and Timo looking on with a somewhat disgruntled face..

After a hard day on the road Caroline settled down for a fair portion of Kiwi, beautifully modelling the hat I slogged away to make her.

Just realxing after a dinner, here you see Morten fabulous crown also!

My blog is getting boring.

2007-03-30T09:55:00.000+02:00

Well, the title says it all.. my blog is getting boring and repetitive. I just don't have the umph to make it interesting.. bare with me though guys.. i will try my best to get on top of it, maybe even add a little humour if i may?

Tot Ziens!!

The Burger Beater

2007-03-29T19:25:00.000+02:00

Last night i met up with Kathrin, we met at five PM outside Centraal Station. We hit it off straight away (well at least, i think we did, maybe she would have a different view!!!) and went to the American Dreamz cafe.

I ate the Nachos (obviously) and Kathrin had an egg roll. As we were finishing up a group of American 40 somethings came in. Now, in this cafe you can buy a burger for 45 euros (only!!) which weighs 1250g. Now, if you eat this burger, along with all the crap that goes with it in under half an hour then you get your money back plus the chance to win a holiday in Florida. Not bad hé! (oh.. did i forget to mention that last year only two people managed to accomplish this?) Anyway, so we spent the next 20 minutes trying to persuade them to do it, failed miserable, got invited to sit with them and drank for free the rest of the evening!!

Winner!!

Would you like to help me?

2007-03-27T19:44:00.000+02:00

I have started a peice of writting and would really appriciate some feedback on it. Chapter three is about to begin so if you would like to be a kind citizen and proof read the first two chapters for me then either comment or email me and i shall send them too you.

Please please help me!! Both good and bad feedback would be more than welcomed!

The End

2007-03-27T11:39:00.001+02:00

I have finished both Wives and Lovers and The Shining.. My profile just wont let me change anything at the moment.

I am now reading Wild Swans.. the heftyist (if that is even a word) book i have ever seen. Good though.

Gross miscarriage of Justice

2007-03-25T15:13:00.000+02:00

I guess this is kind of following on from my last post.

As I am sure many of you know, several years back a little boy was taken from his Mother at a local supermarket. He was kicked, punched and worse. Paint was smeared in his eyes and he was left on a railway track to die.

Those of you who do not know this story will be shocked to hear that this was done by two pre-teen boys.

There 'punishment' for this is a new identity and home in Austrailia.

Now, could someone please explain to me what repulsive person gave these boys a second chance? When they so violently comminted this crime they were roughly (I dont know the exact age) 11 years old. Now, correct me if i'm wrong but when i was 11 years old i was quite clear on the difference between right and wrong. Weren't you? So why, now these boys are 18 have they not been punished?

A young boy (when i say young, i mean 3 years old) had his life stolen on that day. A mother lost her child. A grandparent lost her grandchild. A sister lost her brother.

Isn't it that we should treat other how we would like to be treated? Surely the answer to this question is Yes, therefore why have these disgusting people not been punished?

We are all intitled to our own opinions, do you agree with the courts decision?

News Flash

2007-03-25T15:11:00.000+02:00

Friday night somebody got shot at Zuidplein. A 20 year old male to be precise.

Somebody woke up Friday morning and felt it his duty to take a life and destroy a family.

What made this man think that it was acceptable to do this? What could the victim have possibly done to deserve this sort of punishment?

I guess we will never know.

Ouch! My Butt hurts!!

2007-03-21T21:47:00.000+01:00

Yes, it is official. Yesterday morning at approximately 7.30 I fell down the stairs.

Blimin well hurt.

I am currently struggling to sit on my right bum cheek and cannot move my neck more than 40 degrees without calling for help.

Men

2007-03-20T13:37:00.000+01:00

Now, before I start this post I want to make it clear that I am not sexist. This is in no way a sexist post and therefor the content does not apply to all men. However, I would also like to add that what I am about to write would not have occured if I was a Man and the bloke involved was a woman. Woman do not do / say this sort of thing. So, I guess, that does make me a little sexist, on this topic anyway.

Saturday Evening on the Metro

As you know, Saturday evening I went into Rotterdam for mine and Jacks St Patricks Day celebration. As it happens, Jack was working so I had to make my own way into town to meet him.

So, all is good, I got the bus from Ridderkerk to Zuidplien, waited patiently for the Metro and got on.

All is still good, until I notice a group of lads leering over in my direction and muttering amongst themselves. Now I am in no way boostfull of the fact they were looking at me, infact I really wish they weren't. Anyway so they all got off the metro, all except one, who decided to come and sit opposite me. OK, so apart from the eyes trying to burn holes in me he wasn't doing anything wrong. Until a friend of his comes onboard too, sits next to him and starts the muttering all over again. By this time I am starting to get quite angry but chose not to say anything.. until he starts to talk to me that is.

To start with, I just ignored him, but he was persistant, so I told him I dont speak dutch and turned away (hoping this would shut him up.. oh how wrong was I) So he continues to tell me his English is good and asks if he can sit next to me.

The conversation went something like this..

"Can I sit next to you"

"No"

"Where are you going?"

"Whats it to you?"

"Well, I'm coming with you"

"No, I really don't think you are"

"Yes, I am, Tell me where your going"

At this point the Metro arrives at Stadhuis, my stop, so I get up to walk to the door. He walks with me, stands right up against me and continues to talk.

"Tell me where you are going, I am coming too, I like English girls"

"Can you please just step away from me?"

"Why? What is wrong?"
"Look, I asked you to leave me alone, now will you please just do that?"

"I am coming out with you"

"Just F**k off and leave me alone!" (Sorry Mum)

At this point the doors open to the station, me presuming I am OK now, until he starts to walk off the Metro with me and follow towards the escalators, By this point I am quite convinced that actually, he is coming with me. Until he turns back towards the Metro that is. Phew! That was a tad scary.

OK, I have a question. Why is it that people (I am careful to use the word 'people' and not 'men') think it is OK to invade someones privacy and personal space like that? I want to make it clear that I was not dressed like a hooker, and even if I was, they still do not have the right to talk to me the way they did. Nothing they said was particularly suggestive or aggressive. However, it was intimidating.

You know, there is nothing wrong with talking to a girl, even chatting her up, but No means No right? No matter what the question? But hang on, sorry, there was no question! "would you mind if we joined you this evening" is close to acceptable, but ''I am coming with you'' I would say is a little threatening? Agree?

Post in a Post in a Post

2007-03-19T20:50:00.000+01:00

OK, so i have been slaking a little lately when i comes to my blog.. So heres the lengthy post to update you on the Wonderful World of Rachel.

Lets start with Thursday.

Hannibal Rising

Thursday Evening me and Jack went to see this very fantastic film. Now I love the thrill of watching a horror but am very easily scared. However, this was not so bad. The film in itself was incredibly good, the story behind why Hannibal Lectar became who he did, it is actually quite sad!

Anyway, What I found far more disturbing than the film itself was the fact that I got asked for I.D. Please could someone explain to me what that is all about!! I know I look young for my age but i am 19 next month!! The film is a 16!! Anyway, I am sure I will be more than happy about this when i reach 30 and am still getting I.D'd to enter a club. Wahoo for me.

St Patricks Day

This is a day I have never ever celebrated, haven't the foggiest who the ever-so-famous St Patrick is, however, seen as I am no longer a resident of one of the 4 places that make up the UK i felt it my duty to represent Ireland (OK, so i am not technically Irish, in fact i am no way Irish.. but work with me..) So me and Jack made ourselves look pretty and paid O'Sheas Irish bar a visit. It. Was. Packed. However it was well worth it just to hear some English voices. So that was saturday night. How fantastic.

Church

Now, i haven't been to church since leaving England. And really haven't been looking. However, Austin is leaving next Sunday and asked if i would go along with him to the Sunday morning English service he attends at the Beurs World Trade Centre. So i did. Along with 7 others. Yes, just seven. And 6 of those 7 were Dutch!! However, I enjoyed it. Everyone was really nice and welcoming. Infact, i went to lunch with Austin and 2 others. Very nice, had a spicy chicken wrap. Super.

I then spent the remainder of my Sunday sitting around Coconuts, eating, drinking and reading.

Lovely Jubely.

So i guess thats my update, not so exciting after all.

High speed chase..

2007-03-15T09:14:00.000+01:00

..Well, not exactly.

Me and Jack were walking through Zuidplein Metro station when some guy in a white bommer jacket starts talking to me. Well, to be fair I think it looked very much like he was selling something (considering he had Chipkaart stamped all over his back, one would naturally presume they were advertising, well.. erm.. chipkaarts). Anyway, so I looked at him, stated that I don't speak Dutch and hurried on my way.

Oh.. its not over yet.. So me and Jack are very innocently waiting on the platform when 2 guys (in the white Chipkaart bommer jackets) turn up along with the 'Metro Police'

So they ramble on at Jack in Dutch, insist that He show them our strippenkaart to prove we have paid and then start rambling at me. (At this point I really have no idea what he is talking about and just pressume he is doing a routine check of all tickets.) Anyway, so Jack informs them that I am English and therefore do not speak Dutch. Too which the 'Metro Police' guy completely ignores. So I very innocently look straight at him , carefully pronouncing every letter and repeat what Jack had said previously (in English, of course) I DO NOT SPEAK DUTCH THEREFORE HAVE NO IDEA WHAT YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT. Well at this he looked quite taken aback and continued on his merry way.

Well as it happens. The guy I mentioned earlier (the one in the white bommer jacket who I thought was trying to sell me something) actually happened to be a ticket inspector who of which I blatantly ignored and turned my back on. Him, therefore presuming we haven't paid, leading to the (not-so) high speed chase on the platform.

Leading me to my next point of people who blatantly ignore the obviouse. When I state that I do not speak or understand Dutch, I do not say this for the pure humour of the situation. It is, in fact, true. So please, please, if I ever come across you in the street and you proceed to talk to me in your mother tongue, after realising I do not understand you, do not continue to talk.

P.s. the guy at the metro station was not the only person to do this, it seems to be a habit of a select few.

http://www.thebreastcancersite.com

2007-03-12T11:20:00.000+01:00

I have created a link on my side bar. Please click it. It will take you through to the breast cancer website on which is a 'Donate FREE Mammograms' button.

It will cost you nothing. Yet could save someones life.

Dove | Evolution

2007-03-10T17:19:00.001+01:00

Surely you didn't fool yourself into believeing these woman woke up looking like a cover model did you?

Let your inner beauty shine through

2007-03-10T17:12:00.000+01:00

Now, I am presuming that you have these same adverts in England and possible the States; you see, they really make me smile.

I don’t know about you but i really dislike the media and the image they portray about beauty.

To me, beauty is so much more than having a skeleton like figure and a gleaming white smile, (OK, so this may be a porky girl talking) but its true. OK so i would love to lose a few pounds, who doesn’t? But you know what? I am me. And actually, i quite like that fact.

The media is full of beautiful woman. Size 6 beautiful woman. But do they realise beautiful woman come in all shapes and sizes?

Well, as it happens. Dove do realise this. There advertising bilboards feature a number of beautiful woman. Curvatious beautiful woman.

How refreshing.

These Dove adverts are about inner (and quite obviously) outer beauty.

They prove that you do not have to fit into a size zero to be beautiful.

Make the most of what you have.

Let your inner beauty shine through.

I have posted an advert for Dove that i found on youtube.com

50 things you maybe don't know about me

2007-03-09T09:40:00.000+01:00

I have been reading a blog this week that has kept me so engrosed to my screen. One of the posts this certain blogger produced was a list of 100 facts about her.

Now i am pretty certain that i will not be able to come up with 100 but i shall see how far i get..

I love eating coco pops for breakfast - nothing to do with the taste, i just like to see the milk turn chocolatly.
I often where the same socks more than once. When one only owns 4 pairs, it is pretty impossible to do otherwise.
I've been meaning to get my tattoo now for the last 18 months but am too indecisive.
I really hate the day after it has been snowing and the ground is all sloshy and brown.
I have a little lump on the side of my head which has been here since the week i moved to Holland.
I love the freshness in the early morning air, but very rarely experience it.
I would rather go out without make-up than jewelery.
I always over-estimate how long something will take me.
I have a serious shortage of friends in the Netherlands.
I dont know the difference between the Netherlands and Netherlands Antillies.
I think i know more Dutch than i actually do. Usually i just speak English with an accent.
I hate using non-applicator tampons.
I am joining a gym this evening.
I thouroughly dislike trying on clothes in the winter.
Love or Money - Love.
I hardly ever have credit on my Mobile.
I have a form of exzema behind my right ear - only at certain times of year though.
I love to sing. But can't.
I love Rotterdam and everything about it.
If I won the Lottery I would pay off my families debts and then buy a restauraunt for Jack to chef in and me to manage.
I love to read but rarely find a book that grips me.
If i could rid the world of one thing it would most definatly be bitterballen. Well after Rape, Murder and Poverty.
I have four freckles on the top of my back. I like them.
I have my ears peirced twice on my right ear and 3 times on my left.
I have just eaten way to much Ice Cream.
I can't stand the taste of southern comfort after collapsing in Torquay.
I have never taken any harmful drugs and only tried Cannabis twice.
Both times where discusting.
I believe that people who are incapable of having a good time without the use of drugs and alcohol need to seriously consider councelling.
I do not know how to use a language dictionary properly.
My skin very rarely tans to a decent extent.
I love candles but vary rarely light them.
I find ironing theraputic but detest using a hoover.
When i concentrate my lips change position without me realising.
I am in shock i have already managed to list this many things.
I really wish i had my own unique fasion sence. But i don't.
I have tried Ostrich only once, but really enjoyed it.
I hate the sound of people brushing their teeth.
And the carpet being scraped.
I miss my dog. I never thought i would admit that.
When me and Jack are grown ups we will have a fish called Nemo and a bird called Nigel.
We will eventually have the whole Nemo clan.
I am really narked about my bike key (see previous post).
I can't take a shower if my room is messy.
I love to draw but very rarely do.
I used to be obsessed with Myspace.. until i was introduced to the bloggers world.
I hate waiting for the bus.
My patients varies depending on the time of day. And the person.
I love to paint my nails but never have the patients to let them dry.
Now, my friends, is time for some chocolate.

The case of the missing key

2007-03-08T22:48:00.000+01:00

I'm sorry, i do not care what anyone says, i am not an irresponsible person. I look after my belongings and take care in what i do.

Let me explain my sequence of events. Maybe you are able to pick up on the moments when i could have in fact miss-layed my key. Bike key that is.

Tuesday was the last time i used my bike. I cycled into town (accompanied by my key) . Dismounted my Bike, locked it up and went to H&M followed by the post office. Unlocked my bike (therefore i must have still had my key by this point) Remounted my bike and cycled home. Now, when i unlock my bike i slip the key back into my coat pocket. Every time. Without fail. So why, may i ask, when i slip my coat on this evening, retrieve my bike from the garden shed and wheel it into the house, do i place my hand in my pocket to find an empty one? No, i don't know either.

Any suggestions?

You can call me Miss Rachel

2007-03-08T19:34:00.000+01:00

Every Thursday and Friday afternoon a small group of students are taken from there lessons to be taught a spot of English. From none other than moi! Well, sort of. Austin helps out at the school for 4 hours a week teaching English to kids between the ages of 9 and 13. However, as i have mentioned in my previous post, Austin is returning to the States in a couple of weeks so i shall be taking over, my first lesson Tomorrow!!

As i am not entirely sure what stage the kids are at i have prepared 2 worksheets (cos im cool like that) A getting to know you work sheet, fill in the gap stylee and a tenses work sheet as that is what Austin was working on with them this week.

Wish me luck!!!

Yesterday got me thinking.

2007-03-08T11:24:00.000+01:00

Last night I had a lengthy conversation with Ineke about accents and the way in which people (of all ages) present themselves with the way they speak.

You see, I just have an English accent. I don't have an accent from any particular part of England such as Birmingham or London or Bristol (Thank God). However, because of this I have grown up with the word 'Posh' thrown at me all the time. You see, the way I see it, I am not posh. I speak nicely. What is so wrong with that? Parents spend their life time trying to teach there children to pronounce there T in WaTer and so on. So why, when a child does this (i.e. Me) do I get the finger pointed at me for being the 'posh girl'. To be honest, it used to bother me when I was younger but as I have grown up and matured I have realised how nice it is to speak well. I am so grateful to my mother for bringing me up the way she did.

A few weeks back I took Morten and Caroline to an adventure playground down the road. There was a group of lads there who must have only been a couple of years older then Morten, maybe 9 or 10. The language that was coming out of there mouth was repulsive, not to mention the trail of spit they left behind them. If my children ever turn out the way those kids are you can forget 'Super Nanny', 'Orphanage' will be more the word.

NB Just to add.. Just because I speak nicely doe not make me a snob.

I Miss..

2007-03-05T09:34:00.000+01:00

Having friends.

I was just looking at some Myspace pictures from my friends and it made me sad.

Don't get me wrong, I am lucky in so many ways, the opportunities I have had in the last few months don't happen to everyone. However, friends are important.

I miss going on big nights out with my friends and returning in the early hours of the morning. I miss having girly chats about stupid little things. I miss being able to pick up the phone and make last minute plans.

All I have here now is Jack. I mean, if I could pick only one person to have with me it would be him (apart from you Mum, your cool too.) so I am lucky in that aspect. However, it is tough. Jack has his own life too, his own friends, his own family. It can just be lonely sometimes.

I am not complaining. Please do not think that. I have a fantastic life, friends and family who love me and an amazing Jack who is there to pick me up when I fall. I have a fantastic job and live with a wonderful family. My life really isn't bad. Sometimes it is just a little lonely.

I guess I just haven't had a great number of opportunities to make friends.

There are a couple of aupairs at the school, Austin, but he leaves the end of the month and another girl who also leaves soon.

However, I am joining a gym on Friday, so hopefully could meet a few people there.

Most of this is down to the language barrier. It is just hard to get talking to people who don't speak your language. I mean, I speak a little (very little) Dutch and most people speak a little English, I just need to get over the fear factor of speaking what I know.

Also I am starting a Dutch language course in May so will hopefully meet a few nice people there..

Please keep your fingers crossed for me!

Burping, Fajitas and a bit on the side

2007-03-01T19:25:00.000+01:00

Carolines sick. Well, was. Tuesday evening we were all minding our own business whilst tucking in to a rather scrumptious meal when Caroline lets out the most unbelievable belch! Seriously, you have never heard anything like it. She is four years old. Yet what came out of her mouth had surely been brewing for a fair few years longer than that. And that's not all. To follow the most unbelievable belch came a ridiculous amount a fluid. Poor thing. I really hate being sick, the taste it leaves in the back of your throat is really gross, I can't imagine what it must feel to be that young and feel so poorly. Not that I was never ill as a four year old. I just can't remember it.

Anyway. So that was that, Wednesday Caroline stayed off with me and Ineke. Oh, yes, I worked yesterday and have tomorrow off!! Which is actually quite nice!!

Last night Jack took me to the Pictures and followed it up with the most lovely meal in Dream.

We saw 'Blood Diamond' This was an amazing film, very heartfelt but very true. Make sure you have the tissues!!

Now, Dream. This is were me and Jack went for drinks last week. We sat upstairs this time and had such a wonderful evening. The food was so good, maybe even better than 'Zin', where we went on Valentines Day. I had Steak and Kip Fajitas. They were cooked in a sweet chilli sauce and served with rice, so yummy!! and Jack had the mixed grill, which was also very lovely.

So here I am. Sitting in front of the computer, waiting to head over to Jacks.. for a 3 day break - Lekker hoor!!!

Yesterday was Monday, Today is Wet

2007-02-27T13:45:00.000+01:00

OK, so mondays aren't my favourite day. However this one wasn't so bad, well from 3 '0' clock onwards anyway. Before 3pm was bad. To start with the computer was acting up and I had to keep reloading it to get the internet up and running. Then I watched half a film. Yes, just half because some silly numpty decided to only upload half of 'The Devil Wears Prada' onto peekvid. How annoying. Then my Mum called. Now this wasn't a bad thing of course, but it triggered a lot of emotions and I cried the whole time. Delightful.

OK, so 3 'o' clock arrives and I pick up the children from school, heave the bikes from the back to the front of the house and make our way to Judo. Now, I have to say, this went very well. The boys were so good and stuck with me the whole time. So Caroline and Time Judoed (again, is this a word?) whilst Morten played outside and very unconvincingly told me that he couldn't Judo as his back was hurting too much (kinda hard to believe whilst he's hanging upside down from a monkey bar). However, I didn't want to be responsible for any broken bones so we cycled straight home, had an early dinner and headed over to the office for a spot of spring cleaning. And that was my Monday. Really not so bad afterall. Still i am pleased Monday only comes once a week.

So today is Tuesday. Oh how I hate the rain. Today I cycled in Rotterdam to meet Jack from the Metro, what a lovely surprise. I then headed over to the Library to buy my Rotterdam pas. I was number 55 from the ticket machine. They were on 23. I waited for just under an hour in a room full of Dutch people. So when it gets to number 53 I start to get a little excited, close my book and stand up. Oh no, lets not be hasty. The little number machine skips from 53 to 56!! whats up with that!! So I had to wait an extra 15 minutes!! was not ammused to say the least. So I get to the front desk to be faced by a rather large librarian telling me that I was jumping the queue!! well, I soon put her straight.

And that was my day so far.

Off to collect the kids from school, head to swimming and return home for a rather cosy night in.

Tot Ziens!

Fancy a bite of a Bird?

2007-02-24T19:31:00.000+01:00

I have just eaten Ostrich. Yes. It was very nice, Thank you.

Feeling a little fragile AKA Hungover

2007-02-24T12:13:00.000+01:00

Sorry Mum.

Me and Jack have had a few little fall outs recently so sat down for a talk last night. Enough said on that subject. However this talk led to the very mature decision to go out and get very very drunk.

Now, I haven't had a proper drinking sesh since October when I got ridiculously drunk and threw up my insides all over the bus. Last night wasn't quite that bad. To be honest, I think it was just what we needed, to spend some proper time together just having fun. We started off at the American Dream bar, opening our evening with a (very over-expensive) smirnoff ice and a few beers, not to mention the amzingly generous portion of nachos. After this we of course headed to Coconuts, an ideal place for us to get sloshed, considering we drink for free. After drinking numerous amounts of shots, coctails and spirits we decided to take to the Ice. Yes. Once placing a pair of Ice Skates on your feet you begin to realise how much alcohol you have actually consumed. Anyway, after about 10 minutes on the ice, a fantastic tumble, fall and slide from Jack and the return of our shoes we headed back into Coconuts.

When we first arrived at Coconuts we sat next to a Northern Irish couple at the bar, turns out the lady (didn't catch her name) was a nanny in London and her husband designed film sets!! How cool is that!! Well, this couple became good friends of ours over the course of the evening, of course, never to see them again.

So that brings me to the title of this post. I am feeling incredibly fragile and in desperate need of an English breakfast. Which i am infact going to find now.

Schools' out!!

2007-02-22T19:36:00.000+01:00

School's out this week.. leaving me with three over-excitable children. Now, please don't see this as a bad thing!! I'm having a whale of a time!!

Just to overview the first couple of days..

Monday
To celebrate the first day of the holidays I took the kids skating (ice, not roller). Now the boys really love this and Caroline is convinced she's a pro skater (although she is still in Kiddie skates and struggles a little with those). Of course, ice skating wouldn't be the same without a fairly over-sized portion of porffetjes and a nice warm drink (which happened to end up all over the floor..)

However, Minus the hot chocomel disaster in Coconuts, Carolines tantrum whilst playing pairs and Morten and Timo's slip, tumble and fall at the bus stop, Monday was a very good day.

Tuesday
What a strange day this was. At about 10.30 Toos (Robberts Mother) arrived (very unexpectedly) to take the kids out. Now, although this was unexpected it certainly wasn't unwelcome, it was nice to have a bit of a break, even if it was only a short one!!

Wednesday
My day off.. spent lazing around Jack's house.

Today!!
Today was my favourite day of the week!!

Although I had a houseful of children, today was surprisingly unstressful (is that even a word?!) I got a bunch of ironing done this morning whilst the boys where on the computer (when I say a bunch I mean 3 shirts and 2 tee-shirts, do you know how long it takes to iron one of those!!) the kids then had great fun in the garden with the children from next door whilst I made (amazingly delicious) egg mayonnaise sandwiches.

After lunch I sorted through the ingredients to make a chocolate cake with the girls. This was SO messy but SO much fun!! and it turned out great!! (even if i do say so myself!!)

We then had a relaxing half hour or so, boys in the garden, girls upstairs, me doing laundry and having a little read. This followed by some much loved Television by the children and some vigorous potato peeling. And before I know it, Ineke was home.

I've remembered!!

2007-02-17T13:18:00.000+01:00

OK, I have remembered what the second part of my three posts were!!

It's the kids school holidays next week, and I have been collecting toilet rolls, well the cardboard bit at the end. So far I think I have about 18!! Any suggestions on what I could do with them (craft wise) would be more than welcome, (obviously i mean with the children, not just for my own personal fun.)

That's all for now!!

Tot Ziens!

Pick up a Puzzle!

2007-02-16T09:22:00.000+01:00

Last night Ineke and Robbert went out for a Valentines meal so I had the children. Well, they were as good as gold, I fed and watered them, plonked them in the tub, read them a story and off they went to bed leaving the rest of the evening for me to relax. Grabbing the remainders of the Kinder Bueno from the fridge (yes, diet is cancelled..) i ran back up the stairs to the computer. Spent an hour or so there until Jamie got home at about 9ish.

Now, you see, I was so tired but wasn't in the mood to go to sleep, so, Jamie, being Jamie, came up with the fantastic idea that we do a puzzle! So that's what we did. for 2 whole hours. And no, we still haven't completed it so I am off to finish it now.

I will try and post a picci later!! Its a whopper!! 500 pieces!

OK.. so I have a bad memory..

2007-02-15T20:40:00.000+01:00

Right, well I have completely forgotten what the other two posts were that I was going to post. Hate it when that happens.

The 1st of 3 Posts - Valentines Day

2007-02-15T09:44:00.000+01:00

I have 3 different things to write about today but am going to do this in 3 different posts as they are completely irrelevant to each other!

So the first - Valentines Day.

Well, yesterday morning i woke at about 8.30, my body has got in to this ridiculous pattern of getting up at this time, of course, this highly annoying Jack. I didn't quite get my breakfast in bed as i was up and about before Jack had even opened his eyes, but he did make me a very lovely English breakfast along with croissents and Orange Juice. Just before breakfast we did presents, Jack got me this very lovely bracelet with 'always loving you' written on it and a silver necklace with a fairy pendant on the end (like Tinkerbell!!) and i got him a Valentines game (which sucked may i just add.. as if 'my partner and I are going to re-inact a scene from the Titanic..') and some candy from Jammin.

Then it was time for the pictures!! So we headed into town (showing Jack the 'oh my goodness these boots are the nicest i have ever seen' boots, him offering to pay half as he also agreed that they are 'the nicest boots of the planet') arrived at the bioscoop and bought our tickets. Now you will not believe this. You'll never guess who was behind us in the queue.. it was only de lamas!! OK so none of you really have a clue who they are. Basically there is a Dutch show called de Lamas and Jack absolutely loves it, and the guys who present it were all in the cinema!! Not only that.. but they went to see the same film as us, 'The Prestige' (this is a film you must watch Wendz.. very good.)

Went home, got change and met Jack back at Zin for a really fantastic meal.

Although it got off the a pretty rocky start, Valentines Day turned out to be amazing. And.. JACK BOUGHT ME A ROSE!!!!!!!

About to burst with excitment

2007-02-13T19:28:00.000+01:00

Tomorrow is Valentines Day!! Now, this can either be fantastic, or, in some cases, highly depressing. Well to all you depressives out there, I truly am sorry. However i am not one of you!! My excitement is too immense to handle!!

Tomorrow will be the first full day off that me and Jack have together in ages!!

Tonight i will be staying at Jacks house, having a lazy morning (hopefully this will include breakfast in bed.. maybe a little optimistic..) a gentle stroll around the town, a trip to the Pictures and a beautiful meal at Zin.

Will update you on Thursday!!!

How bearable are your Mondays?

2007-02-13T09:13:00.000+01:00

I don't know if your the same, but I always find Mondays hard work. Wherever I am. Whatever I'm doing. They suck.

Anyway. Mondays are my busiest day here in the au pairing world. Which is kinda good as it means I know the rest of the week will be a walk in the park (haha..) however, it makes them just that tad more unbearable.

So today,

I got up with the children to sort there lunches. Bearable.
Did a spot of the old ironing. Almost bearable.
Went shopping with Jamie. OK so this part was fun.
Picked the kids up from school. All is good so far..
Tried to get the bikes out of the back shed and through to the front. Unbearable.
Cycled to Judo. This went OK.
Sat for an hour and a half whilst the kids Judode (is that a word?!). Relaxing.
Cycled home. Hard in the wind.
Ate dinner. Very Bearable.
Cleaned the office. Scary..
Read a book (well, not a whole one) and went to sleep. Beautiful.

So that was my Monday. All in all it wasn't so bad.

My Weekend

2007-02-12T09:17:00.000+01:00

Day One of my Weekend (well, that's if you include Friday as part of the weekend, which in fact i do, therefore making the week almost the same length as the weekend.)

This morning Ineke had to leave for work at stoopid '0' clock so I had to take care of the kids breakfast and trip to school. Breakfast was actually surprisingly fun. We made our own little band. Timo on Guitar, Morten on Drums, Caroline on Vocals, and me, well I was band manager of course!! So that was breakfast (well, of course we ate some delicious (lets take advantage cos mum's not here) naughty foods) and then headed off to school.. well half way anyway before Morten and Timo very rightly point out to me that we have in fact forgotten Rucksacks. So after the mad rush back to the house we head back to the school for a quick story with Timo (yes in Dutch, so really we just flicked through the pictures) a made rush to get Caroline changed for Gym class and a short walk back to the house.

Jack then came over for lunch, a sausage roll to be precise, and went off to work whilst I did the washing etc.

After picking the kids up from school Morten, Caroline and I went off to the park (Timo stayed home as he didn't want to go out in the cold, Robbert was also home may I just add.. didn't just leave the poor kid by himself..) So Morten lead the way.. very successfully to a park that wasn't open, so we ran back towards the house and got the bus into town. Now, I have to tell you that we went to a really fantastic park!! They had swings and slides (like any other basic place) but on top of that they had rope swings and tires and footballs and sand pits and round abouts and loads of other stuff that I cant explain!! Was soo much fun!!

Jack then finished work extra early so I went off into town about 7.30ish, met Jack for a drink and came back to mine to watch a film and go to sleep.. We watched 'The Hours' A very intriguing film. But worth watching.

Day Two (this being Saturday)

Me and Jack had a lazy morning, just watching T.V and stuff, until Jamie (Ineke and Robberts previous aupair) turned up!! To cut a long story short, Jamie was working at an Art Gallery in Rotterdam but could no longer stay with the people she was staying with.. lets just say the 63 year old man took a slight liking to her.

Jack and I then went into town for a spot of shopping, he went to work, I went back to Inekes for food, watched a bit of Tele with Jamie and went back out to Coconuts. I tried to explain to Jack that the last bus back to Ridderkerk on a Saturday is at 11.10, but Jack, being a man, insisted I was wrong and it was as late as 12.15. So. We stayed at Coconuts for a few drinks once he had finished work (the reason for this being, Marcel is dating a girl off of Dutch Television, she was coming to Coconuts that night and Jack wanted to meet his first 'famous person' - which may I just add didn't happen as she was ridiculously late. To be honest, if this 'famous person' was Johnny Depp or something I could completely understand, but as it happens it was some Dutch girl who appears in a soap every now and again..) Anyway, as I knew we would, we missed the last bus home, having to catch a different bus and walking for half an hour, in the rain, at one '0' clock in the morning. As you can imagine. I was. not. happy.

Day Three (Yes, Sunday, thats right..)

This morning we just lazed around, got ready about midday and went off to Kim's house (Jacks sister) with his Ma and Auntie, ate tomato soup (with red peppers - random) went back to Jacks, played a few rounds of cards, watched 'Over the Hedge' and I got the bus back to Beukelsdijk.

Over all I had a very lovely weekend.

Photo's From the Skating

2007-02-10T16:10:00.000+01:00

Here are some photo's from our little Ice Skating trip. I haven't posted any photos since being back in Holland as i have a serious lack of camera!! (these are kindly on loan to me from Ineke!)

Off to a rocky start!!

Action shot!!

Morten going a little wobbly..

Time to go home..

What a loveerly day

2007-02-08T19:37:00.000+01:00

OK, so as you already know we had snow today!!

So here's what i did.

I woke up bright an early to see to the children's lunches etc. I then smiled happily to myself for quite sometime at the sight of the snow outside (also at all the little kids slipping over, but felt a little harsh..) Put some music on and had a little sing song whilst checking my mail.

Next i went upstairs (whilst continuing my sing song) to do a little drawing, today was 'the little mermaid', took a shower, got a little over-excited about our ice skating trip and went to collect the kids from school.

You see, Morten was suppose to have Chess Club after school, but because of my excitement about ice skating i let slip the little porky he told me about it being cancelled. We then headed into town, had a few snow ball fights and went skating!! The kids loved it!! After some serious skating and snowballing we sat down for a chocomel and porffetjes in Coconuts before returning to the ice rink!!

Ineke and Robbert then made a surprise appearance and took us out for dinner!! Lekker hoor!! We went to one of the beer restaurants (Betty Beer to be precise) ate a huge amount of honey coated spare ribs and came home.

What a loveerly day.

P.s.

Food for thought..
Breakfast - a small bowl of Cocopops.
Lunch - Hagelslag sandwich.
And dinner.. yes dinner.. was honey coated spare ribs!!
Didn't snack at all, see im doing quite well on that aspect of things!!
Drinks - Glass of milk with lunch and a Coke with Dinner

Ok.. so today was a little unhealthy..

Truste!!

I just have to stress my disbelief..

2007-02-08T14:11:00.002+01:00

There i was inocently browsing the internet when i came across this song.

I remember seeing them on 'The Sharon Osborne Show' a while back but seriously didn't think they would ever have a video!!

Thought i would share it with you, i really don't need to say much more other than they are named 'Fanny Pack' and the song is called 'Cameltoe'

Fannypack Music Video Codes

Now Playing: Fannypack - Cameltoe
Brought you by: Music Codes

What were they thinking?!

Just to make you Devon Dumplings jealous..

2007-02-08T12:56:00.000+01:00

There is thick snow here!! By the end of the day the snow should be about 10cm thick on the ground.. i think that is right anyway, I possibly misheard Ineke..

Anyway, so to celebrate i am taking the children to the Stadhuis ice rink!! They have never been Skating before so should be an experience!!

I'll let you know how it goes tonight.

You really have no idea how cool this is.

Feeling a bit sad and tearful..

2007-02-07T20:20:00.000+01:00

For no apparent reason I have felt like I could burst into tears at any moment!!

I'm sure Ineke and Robbert must think i am a right wierdo!! After we had finished dinner i just didn't feel i could hold my tears anymore and literally grabbed my coat and ran into town!! To be honest it was incredibly rude of me i just felt far to embarrased to sit there and cry!! (especially as the whole family were over!) Anyway my theory was that if i went to visit Jack then i would feel a little better.. well this didn't work! just cried the whole time!! Jack was sure that there must be something wrong that i just wasn't telling him but seriously there really wasn't!! I just can't put my finger on what triggered it, i love my job, i don't feel home sick (i mean i do miss my friends and family but it wasn't particulaly bothering me today) and i just saw Jack this morning so i really have no clue!!

Anyway am feeling much better now and i am sure i will have made a full recovery by morning!!

P.s. this is a little like the other night, Jack called whilst i was sleeping, i missed his call and sat there and full-on balled my eyes out for about half an hour!! I am sure it must all be down to tiredness..

P.p.s..

My food diary..
Didn't take breakfast - was in too much of a hurry.
Lunch - Cheese, ham and pinapple tosti from Coconuts.
Dinner - A bean curry with meat and rice (lekker hoor!!)
NO SNACKS!! Very proud of that one..
Drinks - Chocomel with Lunch, Squash with dinner, a glass of water and half a (small) glass of Coke.

To be fair i think i did quite well today.

Tot Ziens!!

My amazing new plan..

2007-02-07T13:59:00.000+01:00

Well, I have come to the conclusion that a food diary is the way forward.

You see, I don't want to loose wait for anybody other than myself, I am just fed up with the 'I look like crap' days. Therefore I thought if I know that at the end of each day I have to share with the world via my blog what I have consumed then I would try my best to eat a little better.. That's the theory anyway!!

So this evening I shall log back on and inform you of the munchies I have had today! I know this isn't highly exciting for you lot reading but I'm doing it for my benefit. Not yours. Mwhahaha.

We had illegals next door!!

2007-02-07T13:15:00.000+01:00

Basically, I looked out the window yesterday morning to see a woman laying on the ground outside next doors house. One would naturally presume she had either fallen, tripped or fainted. Until two police vans, an ambulance and a couple of fire engines turn up that is.

So I then come to the conclusion that maybe there was a fire in the house next door, therefor the woman having to jump out of her window. But I was also wrong on this.

Well, word of mouth tells me this is what happened..

This unfortunate woman jumped out of a top floor window along with four others after hearing a knock at the door and seeing two police vans outside. So this brings me to believe that infact they were all illegal immigants trying to escape the police force, this particular woman being a little unsuccessful and breaking her leg.

Never a dull moment.

Monday, Monday..

2007-02-06T09:56:00.000+01:00

I had a really lovely day today, (forgetting about my walk to Judo that is.. but thats another story.) Once the kids went off to school Íi got a bunch of Robberts shirts ironed and did a load of washing, thought I would get that out of the way. I then called Jack, insisting that the only way i would let him skip college would be to come meet me for lunch. So thats what he did. I got the bus into town (was feeling a little lazy today) and met Jack, went to the post office, ate a loempia and got the bus home. Now we had a very scrumptious lunch, in my roll i had cheese, salami and roast chicken crisps!! was sooo good!! We then played connect four (may i just add, i thrashed him in every round) followed by a few rounds of Ludo!! We then peeled some potato's, Jack left and i went to get the kids from school.

Now, this brings us to Judo. If you remember I broke the back wheel of my bike, meaning we had to walk to Judo instead of cycle. Now this didn't go down to well with the children. Caroline literally screamed the whole way (and yes we did have to walk through three large groups of Dutch teenagers, most of them finding it rather amusing) anyway it actually took us 40 minutes in total to get there, once we were there Caroline was too tired to Judo so just sat with me whilst Timo had his class and then we went out to play whilst Morten took his.

Needless to say the walk home took half the time.

I then went over to Inekes office to dust, hoover and mop, got back to the house about 9ish and slept. Like a baby.

Who said Sundays aren't stressful?

2007-02-05T21:49:00.000+01:00

OK, so my day started with a very unwelcomed alarm at 7.30. Bus. Metro. Bus. Picked up the kids and off to Blijdorp!! Now, i thought a trip to the Zoo would be an easy(ish) day. How wrong was I!! i think it was definatly 'lets see how far we can push our luck with Rachel' day.

Anyway so that was basically the day time, not really much to say about that!! To be honest it did turn out to be a pretty good afternoon, definatly got better as the day went on!!

Then at about 4pm we hurried home for my quick switch with Robbert to replace him at the Rotterdam Film Festival. Once I had met Ineke outside amongst the crowds of people we worked our way in to see my first film of the evening (Inekes 4th!!). Perculiar. The only word for it. Anyway, we then waited some rediculous amount of time to be seated in Pizza Hut, literally shovelled down a pizza and went to the next film! now this one was good, it was a documentary about an 80 year old gentleman who lived on the streets of New York, using his days to produce art and his nights to find shelter. The film showed the journey he made to find warmth and accomidation, ending with a reunion between him and his family. All in all i had a very lovely eveing.

Tot Morgen!

My encounter with Kim!!

2007-02-05T09:02:00.000+01:00

Well, as you may know Kim is my best Dutch friend.. here's the catch. I'd never met her until Saturday. We met on the Internet (yes, think what you like..) She lives near Eindhoven and traveled the one hour and fifty minutes to Rotterdam to see me. So we started off the day travelling from Centraal Station to Stadhuis by Metro (yes this is very significant as she has never been on one before (25 years she has been Dutch!!)) Well we went to Dudok for lunch (and yes I did have the overly-lushus Brie, Apple and Honey Ciabbata), had great fun analysing peoples' outrages dress sense, i know it is good to be unique but some people are just ridiculous and I struggle to understand how they can look in the mirror and think 'Wow! I look fantastic in this overly-hideous skirt, bright pink tights, green strippy top, elbow gloves and trainers!! Not to mention this fantastic belt i have on with spikes all around it!!'

We then went for a mooch around the shops, Kim continually amazed that they have Bodyguards, and that actually, Rotterdam is not as bad as it is said to be. We both did considerably well to control our spendings (to be fair, this wasn't so hard for me as i had a serious lack of money to start with and do not own a credit card.)

Once the shops began to close we made our way to Coconuts for a few drinks, subjecting Kim to Marcel the womanizer (there are better words i could use for him but my Mother may be reading) lets just say he has had more than his fair share.. anyway he took quite a liking to Kim, rather her than me!!

Anyway this bought an end to our day, so we walked to back to Centraal Station, coming across a large number of incredibly perculiar people along the way, and waved goodbye to Kim.

All in all i had a really lovely day and i think she did too?! However i think the best part of this was talking to Kim this morning and finding out that when she returned to Eindhoven the window had fallen out of her car so she had to drive the 40 minutes home with no window!! Amused me greatly.

I was doing so well..

2007-02-02T13:57:00.000+01:00

Well, you see, i've been trying to cut out on snacking and drinking as much water as possible. For example, my last alcoholic beverage was at least three weeks ago, and even then it was just one and a complete one off. Also i was drinking copious amounts of milk, possible 5ish glasses a day.. until i found out milk has roughly 500 calories per pint!! Shocking, i know.

Anyway, i had been doing so well, practically all ive been drinking is water (and the odd hot chocomel - how could i resist?!) So basically i got into the habit of eating breakfast with Ineke and the children (accompanied by a glass of water may i just add.) Having something small for lunch and then eating dinner in the evening (ok, so i have been eating a dessert if there is one, but surely that is just included in dinner!!)

Right, so even if i do say so myself i have been doing pretty well (considering i havent been smoking during the week at all and most people replace cigerettes with food). So was doing good until yesterday, when i arrived at coconuts and gobbled a whole plate of Poffertjes (my reasoning for this was that i walked all the way there and all the way back, so of course this was allowed.) and then today i have just had the biggest craving for chocolate ever!! so i walked over the road to the shop. Bought a big bar of Dairy Milk. And sat and ate the lot. Tasted blimin good though!!! (not to mention the 2 glasses of milk..)

Doei!

My first 'thrown in at the deep end' day

2007-02-01T21:09:00.000+01:00

OK, so i had the kids alone for the first time.

I got up this morning (was a horrendous struggle but i got there) with a banging headache, set the table for breakfast, made the kids lunches and off they went to school.

The plan originally was to go straight back upstairs, cower into my PJ's and fall right back to sleep. Didn't quite work this way. I was far to awake by the time the kids where at school, so i went back upstairs, put on my face and freshened up a bit.

I then checked my emails, called Jack, debated the walk into town to meet him, gave in and off i went. Well, i think i surprised myself!! i actually really enjoyed the walk!! felt rather healthy afterwards (until i arrived at Coconuts and devoured a rather large portion of poffertjes) bought some shampoo and walked back.

Now, i seemed to have a distinct lack of socks this morning, therefore having to go bare-footed in my trainers. Now, anyone who can honestly say that there feet don't absolutely honk after taking off trainers from bare feet are telling porkies. So i jumped in the shower, shaved my legs (believe me - i was starting to look a little ape like) and re-dressed.

When i picked the kids up from school today i met Austin, Ineke and Robberts previous aupair who introduced me to a few others at the school. I then had a bit of an issue with Morten and Timo both wanting to visit friends, trying to find the parents of the friends and sending them off (well Morten anyway. Timo was less successful in finding his companion.) After getting back to the house we watched a little Tele, did a little drawing a played a few games. And that was the end of that.

Tot Morgen!

What exactly is it?

2007-02-01T13:24:00.000+01:00

OK, I have felt the incredible need to write this post as over the last 2 days, yes just 2, I have come across a couple of people who are pretty obviously neither man nor woman.

First off..

I mentioned in my previous post the kids swimming teacher. OK so some of you may see this as a pretty harsh post to write, but frankly I don't care. I just don't understand why anyone would want to be one of those people that are looked at alongside the question "What exactly is it?" I mean come on, if your a swimming teacher, do you really have to be cruel enough to put the children through the embarrassment of saying Sir instead of Miss?? Ineke and I spent much time at the swimming pool deliberating over the person in question, no boobs.. no bum.. no erm.. bulge. So how exactly are we suppose to know? Well it looks like a man, it sounds like a man.. but oh no.. its a woman!! Whats that all about?!

OK, Secondly..

Tracy Chapman. Now you may think the name is a bit of a give away but I beg to differ. Now, have you ever listened to the song 'Fast Cars' if you have, then listen to it again, picturing a man singing it. Now listen to it a second time, picturing a woman. Come on, which is more believable?! Surely you can see how easy it is to mistake her for a man?? She doesn't even look like a woman!! (well to be fair I have only seen one picture of her, maybe it was taken in the wrong light or something).

Well basically my point is.. you don't have to have big boob, or a nice butt to look like a woman!! But please, please make yourself at least distinguishable to save Ineke and I the hassle of trying to work you out!!

Meet the family.. Again

2007-01-31T19:34:00.000+01:00

OK. So just when Jack thought he got the whole 'meet the family' thing over and done with i go and gain another one!!

So Jack came over last night to meet Ineke and Co. I think i am going to have to watch Caroline with him.. she's such an incredible flirt!! Ineke insists that she didn't get that from her but i'm not so sure..

Now i'm not the jealous type, but you have no idea how frustrating it is when your boyfriend understands the children that you are looking after better than you!! I did try to control my frustration and personally believe i did pretty well.

Anyway so we ate dinner, i got changed and Jack and I left for the centre. Very. Unsuccessfully. We took the bike. Bent the wheel. And had to walk. Even more frustrating than the whole 'Jack understanding the kids' thing. So once we finally got into town we went to coconuts for a few drinks and headed back home for Jacks first night in the Beuklesdijk home.

We got home. Put on 'Notting Hill'. I fell asleep after approximatly 6 and half minutes and that was the end of day 2 in Beuklesdijk.

oh.. P.s. I forgot to mention swimming. And the He/She teacher. After much deliberation, Ineke and I gave up on guessing what 'it' actually was and just had to ask Caroline.

P.S..

2007-01-29T21:44:00.001+01:00

Just to update you that my latest 'goal to achieve' is 5 new Dutch words per day.

I'll let you know how that goes.

My first day!!

2007-01-29T20:45:00.000+01:00

Well.. what can i say!! Alles goed - just extremely tired!! So i arrived at Ineke and Robberts house yesterday (of course i have met them and the children several times before) so that wasn't too scary!!

I guess the best way of explaining my jam-packed two days is to talk you step by step on what we've done!! (i think possibly more than i have done in the last 4 months of being here!!)

Right. So i arrived yesterday at about 2.15, took my case up to my room and had a quick stop for a drink. Then Ineke makes an announcement that today is the day I will try out the bike buggy!! (yes - would make an interesting picture, unfortunately I don't have one) for those of you that don't know what one of these is, basically it's a bike with a little tent attached to the back for Caroline to sit in!! So once we get all the bikes (and the buggy) to the front of the house, the first step is to mount the humongous thing in front of me!! (also would make a good picture..) OK so were off.. after about 15 minutes of cycling we arrive at this little cafe where we stop for a drink and Bitterballen (well i had a spring role as i personally think Bitterballen is the most physically repulsive thing on this planet.) Anyway so we then come home, unpack have some food and sleep. Well, try to sleep. I took what seemed like forever to fall asleep, i think this was for a few reasons, the main being it was only 10.30 and i very rarely have lights out before 1, and, of course, there was a serious lack of Jack.

THEN. Just incase it didn't take me long enough to fall to sleep in the first place, I am woken up by this stoopid alarm clock that Abigail left in the room - AT FOUR-THIRTY AM.

OK, so today. Well I woke up at some ridiculous hour to be down stairs by 7.45am. we got the kids off to school and me and Ineke went for a walk around Beuklesdijk so I would get to know my way around, we then plodded (that ones for you Wendz!!) back to Inekes, where her and her sister made the most delicious Tiramusu EVER!! and then took to the road (well bike lane) into town. Now this trip was suppose to consist of a trip to the City Hall for my home registration and a search for a new Au Pair cellphone. Well, lets be honest, you can't go into Rotterdam without making a stop for a slice of the best Apple pie around!! (this also didn't happen as the waitress told us the seats we were sitting in were purposefully for those who were eating lunch - not just apple pie, therefore, of course we had to have food!! which turns out to be fantastic may i just add!! i had a brie, apple and honey ciabatta and then no room for pie!!) anyway so then we went to the City Hall, luckily there was no queue.. I am now an official resident of the Netherlands!! Had no time for shopping before we headed back home to pick up the kids, where we then had to go on a 20 minute bike ride to judo, wait an hour and half for them to finish, cycle back, prepare dinner, eat and sleep!!

So. That was my first day. All in all, i'd say it went pretty well!!

Tot Morgen!

Rachel - AKA Queen of Surprises

2007-01-24T14:27:00.000+01:00

Mission Complete!!

Some of you may know that although in my previous posts i clearly stated that i was unable to book my flight due to financial reasons. I lied. Well not technically. It was only a white lie, as it was sort of true.. (however, as my Mum would say, 'Rachel, a half truth is a whole lie.) I just couldn't inform you of when i did in fact book my flight as then Jack would know, and i therefore would know longer be Rachel - AKA Queen of Surprises.

So there you have it. I flew back to Holland yesterday at 15.40. Arrived into Schipol at 18.00 to be met by Robbert and taken to His and Inekes' house in Rotterdam.

I then had a quick Superwoman change and made my way to Coconuts to surprise my completely oblivious boyfriend. Perfect!! All went to plan.

As i said before. Mission Complete.

My 'Inner European' might be Dutch but i'm proud to be British!!

2007-01-21T20:53:00.000+01:00

Here are a few reasons foreigners may think were a little strange.. however i firmly believe you should be proud of your Country!!

Only in Britain... can a pizza get to your house faster than an ambulance.
Only in Britain... do supermarkets make sick people walk all the way tothe back of the shop to get their prescriptions while healthy people can buy cigarettes at the front.
Only in Britain... do people order double cheeseburgers, large fries, and a DIET coke.
Only in Britain... do banks leave both doors open and chain the pens tothe counters.
Only in Britain... do we leave cars worth thousands of pounds on the drive and lock our junk and cheap lawn mower in the garage.
Only in Britain... do we use answering machines to screen calls and thenhave call waiting so we won't miss a call from someone we didn't want totalk to in the first place.
Only in Britain... are there disabled parking places in front of a skating rink

What is your Inner European?

2007-01-21T20:37:00.000+01:00

OK. So this is wierd. I clicked on this site with all different mini questionair thingys, this one being, What is your inner European?

Ok, bare in mind.. i didnt actually fill in the questionnair!! but when i clicked on the question the answer automatically popped up!! How spooky!! Look what the answer was!!

Your Inner European is Dutch!

Open minded and tolerant.
You're up for just about anything.

Who's" Your Inner European?

What's a labaret?

2007-01-21T19:47:00.000+01:00

OK..

Here's a clue..

It's something you can get pierced.

Any ideas?

I'm thinking penis. Could be wrong though.

Let's Bake!

2007-01-21T19:17:00.000+01:00

Katy came over today. We thought it would be fun to bake a cake.. Here's what happened. I think the pictures say it all!!

Katy - the little housewife during our first attempt at making a cake.. (look below to see the results!!)

As you can see it didn't go quite as planned!! this is only egg yoke, milk and melted butter.. only we forgot to let the butter cool down before adding it to the mixture.. therefore it cooked the egg.

OK. So the second attempt was a little more successful!!

Believe me.. you wouldn't have wanted to clean up this kitchen once we were done!!

So we popped it in the oven and here's how we did!!

OK.. So i got a little peckish!!

Well.. you see.. we didn't have a cake shaped baker thingy so we decided to make a brick instead!!

Don't be silly!! This was the picture on the box!!

This was ours!! Isn't it beautiful!! I tell ya.. tasted blimin' good!!

Leila

2007-01-20T22:30:00.000+01:00

So. Today i was babysitting. You know, this can actually be so much fun!!

So we started off by having some lunch (well, Leila did anyway. personally i wasn't prepared to eat 3 slices of ham and a chopped up cucumber.)

Then we proceeded to take a trek into town. Of course stopping of at the park for an incredibly long 'swing' before going 'Forward and Beyond' into the center. May i just add by this time it is about 1.45 and Leila normally takes her nap about 1ish.

So i take Leila out of her pram and we have a little walk together (all the old ladies cooing as she walks past them). So it starts to rain a little, me, being me have this fabulous idea to stop for coffee. And a biscuit. Well. I tell you. This has to be the most expensive coffee i have ever drunk in all my life!! £5.10 for a coffee and a few biscuits. That's 7 euros and 77 cent!! could of bought a whole tub of coffee and 3 packets of biscuits for that!!

Anyway! we then went to Austins toy store where Leila was overly fascinated with the train set, therefor spending the next 25 minutes there before returning home for a nap!!

So, apart from the highly over-priced coffee and the utterly annoying train set i had a rather fantastic day!!

Take a look at her!! i mean - who couldn't enjoy her company!! (OK - this photo is a little physically repulsive of me but just couldn't work out how to chop of my face!! she looks so cute!! i had to post it!)

Girl's night in..

2007-01-18T11:52:00.000+01:00

Sophie - all excited about winning.. if only she knew..

Trivial Pursuit!! It's the way forward!!

Me.. a not-so-Sexy Sadie!! Trying to guess the Actor during the Scene It game!!

The game that bought us many laughs!!

Sophie - realising, she is in fact a loser.

Now.. I haven't been to a sleep-over in i don't know how long!!

It was so much fun!! Although it was just the two of us it was so good to have a proper catch up and gossip (now that's something i have been unable to do for a long time!!)

We played games, we ate popcorn, we sang, we danced, we watched films, we did everything!!

I don't think i have laughed so much in a very long time!! Although It took me a while to realise there are in fact only six sides to a dice, therefore when i threw a six, it was in fact a six and not a nine; That Catherin Zita Jones is married to Micheal Douglas and not Paul McCartney and the Beatles song Jude Law has tattooed on his arm is 'Sexy Sadie'. Not, 'Always look on the bright side of life' (is that even a Beatles song?!).

Apart from that. All was good!!

After our board game marathon and eating spree we took ourselves to bed and chatted until ridiculous-o-clock and went to sleep..

Just to let you know..

2007-01-17T16:26:00.001+01:00

..I never did hear from the police about Saturday night.

Point proven.

The Lake House

2007-01-16T23:05:00.000+01:00

I have just watched, the most mind boggling but at the same time amazingly well thought out, fantastic film!!

I don't know if any of you have seen it, but if not you really must!! Just a word of warning to the easily confused.. get your intellectual cap on first!!

Basically the film is set in two different time zones, 2004 (the time zone of the male character, played by Keanu Reeves) and 2006 (the time zone of the female character, played by Sandra Bullock) So these two characters meet through a letter in a home mail box. They begin to discover that they are not living throughout the same time period. They fall in love and without saying too much encase you decide to watch the film.. they try to think up ways in which they can meet.

Brilliant! You really do have to see this film. It has so many twists and turns and leaves you puzzled the whole way through!!

UPDATE!!

2007-01-16T15:46:00.000+01:00

Well, there are a couple of things that have happened over the last couple of days that i need to update you on!!

Firstly. Jack killed the bird.

Let me explain.. OK, Monique bought a bird at the weekend. A lovely little thing called YoYo. So all is hunky dory, until Jack gets home from college that is. So Jack very innocently gets the bird out of its cage, all is well.. for a few minutes anyway, when the bird starts hyperventilating, has a spasm and dies!! In Jacks hand!! Personally i found this all rather amusing. Sorry to all you bird lovers out there.

And Secondly. The Taxi man stole my flight.

Again, let me explain.. Basically, Giverney was kind enough to lend me £10 to pay for the remainder of my flight back to Holland (yes, i didn't even have a tenner) anyway so she gives me a £20 note for the taxi back home so i could keep the change for my plane ticket. OK. So I get in the taxi. Chat away to the driver (like you do) and we pull up to my house.

"That'll be £7.40 then please love"

So i hand him the £20 note. He's scrambling around in his pocket for the extra 60p so i say..

"oh just give me a couple of quid back, that'll be fine"

And that's that.

Its not until the next morning that i realise he literally did give me a couple of quid back!! Obviously I meant Plus the £10 note!!

So again, i am back to square one of having no money and no flight home.

So i call the taxi firm and explain what has happened. The bloke on the other end of the line tells me he will talk to 'Richard' and told me to call back the next day.

So i do. However this guy isnt there so I talk to another man who says he will get 'Chris' to call me.

It is now Tuesday. I have had no call from 'Chris' so i call them back. This time i'm lucky enough to speak to Chris, he explains that 'Richard' was only given one £20 note that night and cannot account for where it came from, so therefore i cannot have my change. What he fails to understand is that one £20 note was mine!!

So basically I paid £20 for a £7 taxi journey. And still no flight.

Really not a fan of pink!!

2007-01-16T15:38:00.000+01:00

Now. I'm really not a fan of pink. Infact. I'm quite anti it. But actually quite like it against this background!!

Just thought i should clear that up.

Doei! doei!

My thought process..

2007-01-16T13:24:00.000+01:00

OK, so I've been doing a lot of thinking recently. A few posts ago i wrote about not making new years resolutions but setting myself goals to achieve, as i think this is more do-able than giving up stuff i enjoy. Well i would like to update that and add..

I want to learn more about the world and people around me, to appreciate the things i do have and stop dwelling on the things i don't.

There are so many of us that are wrapped up in our own worlds to actually look outside the window and realise what is happening beyond our four walls. I am the first to admit that!! We all have our own situations and confusions going on in our own lives, therefore why weigh ourselves down with extras!! Well, look at it this way. It may actually make you realise how kushti you have it.

I personally think Eastenders is great way of learning this lesson!! Don't get me wrong, i hate the programme, but look at it this way. You've had the worst day at work, you've got home and the dog has chewed on half the sofa, your boyfriends just dumped you and you think your life is over. You switch on the TV, watch an episode of Eastenders and realise, actually, my life is perfect after all.

I just want people to take a step back and look at there lives from an outsiders point of view. For example a working class family with not all that much money and 3 children, may spend the majority of there time worrying about the cost of living and the things that they don't have, but an outsider looking in, would see them as blessed to have 3 beautiful children.

I want people to appreciate the things in life they do have but take for granted and give up wishing they had more. I am not trying to say i am perfect, I am just like everyone else. I am the first to admit that i take for granted the things and people around me and don't realise how lucky i am to have such special people who love and care for me. Material things are not what is important. Money cannot buy happiness, just labels.

Sorry? Superheros? Pah!

2007-01-14T15:48:00.000+01:00

Word of advice to all you physically or verbally violent people out there.. head to Newton Abbot.

Let me explain..

Me and Giverney were walking along the long road connecting Newton Abbot town centre and Rafters, minding our own business, a young woman passes us really quite distraught, crying. Followed by an outraged bloke shouting his mouth off (who quite happily yelled abuse at me and Giverney as we passed) Anyway, us being the good citizens that we are felt it would be wrong to leave this poor woman alone with this lunatic. So we walked back towards them in an attempt to rescue the Damsel in Distress. So obviously as we turned around to talk to her we got an earful from this delightful man (who very wrongly stated to me.. my manners are better than yours ever will be.. bit of a peculiar comment to make don't you think when you are in the middle of verbally abusing your girlfriend?) Anyway as this was going on, this woman getting more and more distressed a bloke who passed a while before called the police. So. This is where the so called 'superheros' are supposed to come in and save the day. Well. Lets rewind a bit. The police have driven passed!! Oh yes.. with there special blue lights flashing.. but of course.. no physical violence taken place as yet so why should they stop? Lets not be ridiculous and prevent something that could happen happening, lets just wait until there is something physical to stop. So the police turn around at the round about. Me and Giverney go and talk to them, but oh no, don't be silly!! they don't want statements!! they want our phone numbers and then drive off without another word. So I'm expecting to get a call from the police today. By which time it will be too late to help this poor woman as nobody knows either of there names or phone numbers (not particularly something i tend to ask someone likely to beat me to the ground.)

So yes. That was my story of my eventful evening last night. And just to prove how terribly the police handle situations of violence. You know the saying.. sticks and stones may brake my bones but names will never hurt me. Has to be the most ridiculous thing i have ever heard as verbal abuse is often far more hurtful than any physical abuse you can suffer. Maybe the police should consider this next time they are called out to handle a situation like this one.

p.s. sorry about the lack of photo.. also something i tend not to ask raving lunatics.