It's not a good morning for most people today. It's like another Brexit. Predictions showed a clear majority for Hillary, and what does America get? A crazy powerhungry man who wants to build a wall between Mexico and US, and who doesn't believe in free trade. And he thinks that Putin is a nice guy.
Interesting times ahead. And scary.
Wednesday, November 09, 2016
Tuesday, November 08, 2016
Go Hillary
I know, the blog has been sorely ignored for a very long time. Life has just been going on and I have shared the things I used to write here with others. But I will make an attempt to get back, no promises though.
However, I just have to write about the US. First of all, I am so glad that the election will finally be held, 'cause having to read about it for more than half a year now gets boring. Seems like all media is hung-up about this election, even though it's just one country in the world. Yeah I know, it's the US but still.
From the very beginning I have had belief in the American people, that they after having made the wrong choice twice with George W now have learned their lesson. Mind you, America is full of people with low education who believes everything they hear in the media. Nevertheless, I am pretty certain that there are enough people with brains, so tomorrow we can celebrate that the world is still fairly safe.
Mind you, couldn't the Americans have found better candidates than a mad man and an old woman?
However, I just have to write about the US. First of all, I am so glad that the election will finally be held, 'cause having to read about it for more than half a year now gets boring. Seems like all media is hung-up about this election, even though it's just one country in the world. Yeah I know, it's the US but still.
From the very beginning I have had belief in the American people, that they after having made the wrong choice twice with George W now have learned their lesson. Mind you, America is full of people with low education who believes everything they hear in the media. Nevertheless, I am pretty certain that there are enough people with brains, so tomorrow we can celebrate that the world is still fairly safe.
Mind you, couldn't the Americans have found better candidates than a mad man and an old woman?
Sunday, July 24, 2016
Everything is better with alcohol
Yesterday my neighbours went on holiday, and as always I have their key during their absence 'cause I look after their apartment. Just before they left they checked the mailbox and it couldn't be opened, so they called me to say that they called the police and would I be available to assist.
I wasn't yesterday, but said I would be today. Unfortunately I got only a few minutes warning before they came, so I hadn't done myself up very nicely, and isn't it typical? Two very handsome, prime examples of men in uniform showed up, and I started to sweat profusely. Sexy, huh?
They fiddled around with the key for a few minutes, sprayed the keyhole with alcohol and now the key works better than before, it was always a bit tricky with their mailbox.
So you see, alcohol makes everything better!
And a reflection, if the same thing happened to me I wouldn't immediately think of a conspiracy theory and call the police, I would've called a friend with tools. And another reflection, I feel lucky to live in a country where the police can spend time on such minor issues. Makes me feel safe.
I wasn't yesterday, but said I would be today. Unfortunately I got only a few minutes warning before they came, so I hadn't done myself up very nicely, and isn't it typical? Two very handsome, prime examples of men in uniform showed up, and I started to sweat profusely. Sexy, huh?
They fiddled around with the key for a few minutes, sprayed the keyhole with alcohol and now the key works better than before, it was always a bit tricky with their mailbox.
So you see, alcohol makes everything better!
And a reflection, if the same thing happened to me I wouldn't immediately think of a conspiracy theory and call the police, I would've called a friend with tools. And another reflection, I feel lucky to live in a country where the police can spend time on such minor issues. Makes me feel safe.
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Tooth job
This middle age thing has a lot of advantages, but there is one big negative and that is that the body goes downhill. Had to visit the dentist again today.
Last week we were happily cruising on the lake (well, at least until my friend attempted to park the boat and ended up against the poles at the opposite bridge, he shall need more lessons!) and had a bite to eat. I hade made the sandwiches myself, so I was surprised to find sand in them. Anyway, long story short I lost a filling and had to go see mr handsome again.
Turns out my tooth is no good. You know the feeling when they have taken an x-ray and the dentist and the nurse look at each other and shake their heads when they think you do not see.
This is the same tooth I had root canal done on a couple of years ago. It has developed a permanent infection underneath and the bone has become soft, and unless you take away the whole tooth and try to repair under it will never be good again.
Now, I am actually in a bit of luck since it's a tooth next to the wisdom tooth and I will probably not need to replace it if it has to come out eventually. Handsome talked about implant (4,000+ francs) and bridges (3,000+ francs), but I will choose to just have it out when the time comes.
For the moment I have a new filling, fingers crossed it'll last...
Last week we were happily cruising on the lake (well, at least until my friend attempted to park the boat and ended up against the poles at the opposite bridge, he shall need more lessons!) and had a bite to eat. I hade made the sandwiches myself, so I was surprised to find sand in them. Anyway, long story short I lost a filling and had to go see mr handsome again.
Turns out my tooth is no good. You know the feeling when they have taken an x-ray and the dentist and the nurse look at each other and shake their heads when they think you do not see.
This is the same tooth I had root canal done on a couple of years ago. It has developed a permanent infection underneath and the bone has become soft, and unless you take away the whole tooth and try to repair under it will never be good again.
Now, I am actually in a bit of luck since it's a tooth next to the wisdom tooth and I will probably not need to replace it if it has to come out eventually. Handsome talked about implant (4,000+ francs) and bridges (3,000+ francs), but I will choose to just have it out when the time comes.
For the moment I have a new filling, fingers crossed it'll last...
Friday, June 17, 2016
The lavender house
Last week I was invited out to dinner with a group I hardly know. Some of them I've met before, but far from all. It was nice. We were in a Mexican restaurant, and enjoyed strawberry drinks, lots of dip with guacamole, beans, sour cream and salsa, as well as fajitas with meat and shrimps. Followed by a lovely Baileys icecream.
I mingled with a gardener and I learned a lot about plants and turtles! When I described where I live he immediately knew where, "it's the lavender house"! Indeed. But I think most people know the house where I live because of my lighting, the purple windows.
Then again, lavender is purple, isn't it?
I mingled with a gardener and I learned a lot about plants and turtles! When I described where I live he immediately knew where, "it's the lavender house"! Indeed. But I think most people know the house where I live because of my lighting, the purple windows.
Then again, lavender is purple, isn't it?
Thursday, June 09, 2016
Animal life
Some weeks ago a good friend of mine had to put her cat down. Even though the cat had a good long life, 16 years, it is still unbelievably sad. Yes I know that people say that animals are not people, and indeed they are not, but they are still family members. Somebody who is there all the time, depending on you, and loving companions.
The reason I'm thinking about it, is that there is an older lady on my street, who has a dog. I see them almost every day, and she's walking with a stick very slowly, but even more slowly the dog limps along. He's a big black dog with deformed feet, and I cannot tell if he's in pain, but I would think so. Today he stopped when I passed by, I petted him on his big head and he just laid down, refusing to stand up. What can I do?
I cannot talk to the woman, the dog is probably her only companion, but I feel for the dog. It should be put down and out of his misery. I feel so helpless.
The reason I'm thinking about it, is that there is an older lady on my street, who has a dog. I see them almost every day, and she's walking with a stick very slowly, but even more slowly the dog limps along. He's a big black dog with deformed feet, and I cannot tell if he's in pain, but I would think so. Today he stopped when I passed by, I petted him on his big head and he just laid down, refusing to stand up. What can I do?
I cannot talk to the woman, the dog is probably her only companion, but I feel for the dog. It should be put down and out of his misery. I feel so helpless.
Monday, June 06, 2016
The blind cow
Yesterday I was having an almost out-of-body-experience, having dinner at the blind cow restaurant in complete darkness. It was really pitch dark in there, I couldn't even see my hand holding it in front of my face.
Me and my guest entered the dining area, walking through a black curtain, holding the waiters shoulder who effortlessly led us to our table. He was blind of course. He was very helpful guiding us to the chairs and explaining where everything was on the table.
I started to explore by feeling the rim of the table towards the other end, and was very surprised when I felt another person! I cackled nervously and kept my hands to myself the rest of the evening.
It was very interesting to eat without seeing anything at all. I had a mixed salad as a starter and identified various sorts of lettuce, an egg, some nuts, tomato and celery. At least I think that's what it was.
All around us we heard people talking and I still today have no idea what the room actually looked like. Very weird.
When the main course came in we got company, a couple sitting next to us and we had a nice conversation with them. Funny that, to talk to people and you have no idea what they look like. Turned out to be a couple, 25-years-olds, who had a lot in common with my friend. It felt good since I had invited her and I wanted her to have a nice evening.
Later, after dinner, we were again led outside by our charming waiter and were able to see each other. The guy was much smaller than I had imagined from his voice.
The main course was nothing to write home about, but I would anyway strongly recommend a visit. I think it's good to get a feeling of what it is to be blind. But a feeling is all you get, I don't think anybody who isn't blind can really understand. Nevertheless, try it!
Me and my guest entered the dining area, walking through a black curtain, holding the waiters shoulder who effortlessly led us to our table. He was blind of course. He was very helpful guiding us to the chairs and explaining where everything was on the table.
I started to explore by feeling the rim of the table towards the other end, and was very surprised when I felt another person! I cackled nervously and kept my hands to myself the rest of the evening.
It was very interesting to eat without seeing anything at all. I had a mixed salad as a starter and identified various sorts of lettuce, an egg, some nuts, tomato and celery. At least I think that's what it was.
All around us we heard people talking and I still today have no idea what the room actually looked like. Very weird.
When the main course came in we got company, a couple sitting next to us and we had a nice conversation with them. Funny that, to talk to people and you have no idea what they look like. Turned out to be a couple, 25-years-olds, who had a lot in common with my friend. It felt good since I had invited her and I wanted her to have a nice evening.
Later, after dinner, we were again led outside by our charming waiter and were able to see each other. The guy was much smaller than I had imagined from his voice.
The main course was nothing to write home about, but I would anyway strongly recommend a visit. I think it's good to get a feeling of what it is to be blind. But a feeling is all you get, I don't think anybody who isn't blind can really understand. Nevertheless, try it!
Sunday, May 29, 2016
Different kinds of intelligence
It's not like I take pleasure in watching people fail, but yesterday I had to laugh. Flatmate may be superintelligent and working with things I understand nothing of, but he's certainly not that skilled in practical matters. Such as cleaning, cooking and seeing what needs to be done.
Yesterday he came home, having done groceryshopping, and was looking up a recipe on the net. Thing was, he got most of the ingredients wrong. But seriously, I dunno how anybody can mistake iceberg salad for cabbage :).
So tonight, to be on the safe side, I am cooking.
Yesterday he came home, having done groceryshopping, and was looking up a recipe on the net. Thing was, he got most of the ingredients wrong. But seriously, I dunno how anybody can mistake iceberg salad for cabbage :).
So tonight, to be on the safe side, I am cooking.
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Green and red
As mentioned before I am this year sharing my boat with two friends. So far we have had I think four sessions and it still doesn't feel safe enough to let them go on their own. And I'm not being overprotecting if that's what you think :).
Anyway, I appreciate the eco-think when they brought new cups (we always have a drink on the lake, whether it's water or wine...) and especially the starboard and larboard (port) colouring.
FYI, right is green, left is red (easy to remember, nobody wants to be a leftie!).
Anyway, I appreciate the eco-think when they brought new cups (we always have a drink on the lake, whether it's water or wine...) and especially the starboard and larboard (port) colouring.
FYI, right is green, left is red (easy to remember, nobody wants to be a leftie!).
Testing a theory
Thursday, May 19, 2016
Dating
Some time ago I again registered at the dating site I was on when I first met my, now very close, dog friend. This time however, I didn't give too many details about myself, and I kinda forgot about it all. I know that in order to get contacted a lot, you have to share more information.
However, last week I got contacted by an older man, and since I have no prejudice against age when it comes to meeting new friends, I suggested we'd meet. I am not much for talking on the phone or sending numerous emails. I prefer an irl meeting, 'cause it usually takes no more than a few minutes to decide whether the person is a candidate or not.
This one was a quite severely overweight man with heart problems. He had trouble walking uphill, and told me he was on four different medications. Besides, he was a tad negative and had a tendency to complain about things, rather than looking on the bright side of life. So after a few hours slow walk with many stops, we parted politely and probably both thought the same. Nice meeting you, but enough.
Today he sent me an email saying he understood that I wasn't looking for anything romantic, but for him sex and erotics were very important. HAHAHAHAHA! I can only imagine going to bed with a 100+ kg's man with a heart condition, thinking he could collapse any minute. Romantic! NOT!
So I wished him good luck in his future endeavours. At least he gave me a good laugh.
However, last week I got contacted by an older man, and since I have no prejudice against age when it comes to meeting new friends, I suggested we'd meet. I am not much for talking on the phone or sending numerous emails. I prefer an irl meeting, 'cause it usually takes no more than a few minutes to decide whether the person is a candidate or not.
This one was a quite severely overweight man with heart problems. He had trouble walking uphill, and told me he was on four different medications. Besides, he was a tad negative and had a tendency to complain about things, rather than looking on the bright side of life. So after a few hours slow walk with many stops, we parted politely and probably both thought the same. Nice meeting you, but enough.
Today he sent me an email saying he understood that I wasn't looking for anything romantic, but for him sex and erotics were very important. HAHAHAHAHA! I can only imagine going to bed with a 100+ kg's man with a heart condition, thinking he could collapse any minute. Romantic! NOT!
So I wished him good luck in his future endeavours. At least he gave me a good laugh.
Monday, May 09, 2016
Update - about bloody time
Jeez, times flies. What am I doing with my time? I really couldn't say, other than it was a barbecue with friends, a visit to accompany an old dement woman while the husband was away, dinners at my place, an Ikea-visit, an old friend for lunch, at a somewhat younger friends for brunch and on the lake with the boat.
And this morning I was out doing a vitaparcours round with the dog. We passed a younger woman with her kid, and all the mother did was looking at her telephone. I cannot believe it! We, on the other hand, were enjoying the birds and a beautiful deer, standing there just looking at us.
What's this thing with a telephone? People cannot seem to live without it these days, and they forget the world around them. Poor people. They should really learn to stop and smell the roses.
And this morning I was out doing a vitaparcours round with the dog. We passed a younger woman with her kid, and all the mother did was looking at her telephone. I cannot believe it! We, on the other hand, were enjoying the birds and a beautiful deer, standing there just looking at us.
What's this thing with a telephone? People cannot seem to live without it these days, and they forget the world around them. Poor people. They should really learn to stop and smell the roses.
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Come to me
I was out walking the dog today with a friend. We passed a gardener who was working on the street, and after about 20 meters I realized the dog was way behind us, so I called her. "Come, come" I yelled and clapped my hands, and nearly doubled over when the gardener took a few steps towards me. Hahaha!
I can't help it, but I take pleasure in little things nowadays.
I can't help it, but I take pleasure in little things nowadays.
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
Helping out
Some time ago I volunteered to spend a couple of hours a week for needy people in my 'hood. I had an interview with the organization, which I think is good, even though a 15 min session isn't enough to know I have no alterior motive (which of course I don't). Nevertheless, a first impression is not to be sniffed at. And the limit is set to two hours a week, something to do with insurance I think.
Today I had a first meeting with an elderly woman. I cannot say that she was especially needy, but I guess everybody can use a bit of company now and then. And she was great. Despite the quite large age difference we spoke about everything and nothing. We were sitting at her balcony, enjoying the sunshine, sipping at Prosecco and just enjoying chitchatting. Charming!
And she had a black cat. Always a plus in my book.
Today I had a first meeting with an elderly woman. I cannot say that she was especially needy, but I guess everybody can use a bit of company now and then. And she was great. Despite the quite large age difference we spoke about everything and nothing. We were sitting at her balcony, enjoying the sunshine, sipping at Prosecco and just enjoying chitchatting. Charming!
And she had a black cat. Always a plus in my book.
Friday, April 15, 2016
Kitties have grown
Yesterday my cats were five years old! And with the years they have become more and more like me. This is exactly how I stretch in the morning.
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
What is wrong with people these days?
Always a pleasure having people over for dinner who appreciate human contact.
Thursday, April 07, 2016
First cruise of the year
First cruise of the year yesterday. It was actually a test-run since I am sharing the boat with two friends this year. It went so-so to be perfectly honest. Ok, I wasn't a star when I first got the boat, but they are total amateurs. Just to open up the boat took them three times as long as it takes for me to do it myself :).
Out on the lake they realized it is not at all like driving a car. Water moves, a road doesn't. And when one of them were trying to park it went...well, not good. I had to take over and make sure we didn't crash into anything.
Ah well, practise makes perfect, right?
Out on the lake they realized it is not at all like driving a car. Water moves, a road doesn't. And when one of them were trying to park it went...well, not good. I had to take over and make sure we didn't crash into anything.
Ah well, practise makes perfect, right?
Tuesday, April 05, 2016
Me a mosquito?
Ok, so now I know why all Japanese people are so skinny. They eat with chopsticks! I used mine today, and with the meat and veggies it was ok, but the sauce with rice was a bit more tricky. First of all it takes a long time to eat and second, the sauce is very difficult to scoop up. A great diet coming to think of it.
Then I learned what my name means in Japanese. Well sorta. Turns out that European names are difficult to direct translate, so they take syllables and translate them one by one.
My name means "safety" "two" and either "fruit" (gosh, I hope not durian) or "mosquito". Hmmm.
Then I learned what my name means in Japanese. Well sorta. Turns out that European names are difficult to direct translate, so they take syllables and translate them one by one.
My name means "safety" "two" and either "fruit" (gosh, I hope not durian) or "mosquito". Hmmm.
Dark matters
Gosh, I really don't know where the time goes. It flies apparently, and the blog has been sorely neglected the last few weeks.
I have worked with the oldies, I have taken up sports again after the winter where I was slightly lazy (and gained 2 kg's!), I have had dinner parties and been hanging with friends.
And yesterday I got a new flatmate, after the other one moved out last week. The new one seems very friendly and easygoing, and I hope we can develop a nice relationship.
Yesterday evening we talked and got to know each other a little. Turns out that our respective careers are extremely different, I hardly understood anything he was telling me, but it was something about finding dark matter (CERN-like) in the universe. Personally I enjoy sunshine more ;).
He brought me a very nice gift, guess where he comes from?
I have worked with the oldies, I have taken up sports again after the winter where I was slightly lazy (and gained 2 kg's!), I have had dinner parties and been hanging with friends.
And yesterday I got a new flatmate, after the other one moved out last week. The new one seems very friendly and easygoing, and I hope we can develop a nice relationship.
Yesterday evening we talked and got to know each other a little. Turns out that our respective careers are extremely different, I hardly understood anything he was telling me, but it was something about finding dark matter (CERN-like) in the universe. Personally I enjoy sunshine more ;).
He brought me a very nice gift, guess where he comes from?
Thursday, March 17, 2016
Healthy
I donated blood again today, and every time they measure my haemoglobin, blood pressure and temperature, and I am happy to report that my previously high pressure is now back to normal. Well, normal for a smoker, still slightly high but within the normal range, 138/95. And this despite that I walked fairly fast down to the city.
However, I still might have to visit my doc, the lump is still alive and kicking, but smaller. I will make another attempt to squeeze tomorrow.
However, I still might have to visit my doc, the lump is still alive and kicking, but smaller. I will make another attempt to squeeze tomorrow.
Self is the best doctor
Since quite some time I have had a lump on my shoulder, and lately I had a feeling it has grown more inwards as well as protruding. It was movable, not hurting, not bleeding, so I haven't been worried.
However, I started to think it was time to go see my doc until today! When stepping into the shower I noticed a drop of pus on the tip, and while in the shower I started squeezing. And how I squeezed! I more felt than saw how much pus was coming out of there! Omg, it must've been many milliliters.
And yes it was pus, not white wine :), and doc will have to wait.
However, I started to think it was time to go see my doc until today! When stepping into the shower I noticed a drop of pus on the tip, and while in the shower I started squeezing. And how I squeezed! I more felt than saw how much pus was coming out of there! Omg, it must've been many milliliters.
And yes it was pus, not white wine :), and doc will have to wait.
Monday, March 14, 2016
Swiss party!
So last Saturday was the party to celebrate my Swiss citizenship. It was a success if you ask me. My apartment is perfect for mingling, and even though many people had met each other before, I saw some who hadn't met before, and were deep in conversation. I just love to introduce people to each other, I should've made a career with it!
And it all went smoothly (even though the guy who promised to help me didn't!), with 24 guests. And for once I didn't cook too much, just enough. 84 meatballs went with the wind, two trays with beef tartar (brought by a friend) together with two trays of pastry with chilipaste and cheese were empty by the end of the evening. Peanuts were eaten. A large cheese plate left two tiny bites. Six loafs of bread and almost three cakes were consumed. The only thing left was half a bowl of tomato salad :). Too healthy I presume.
And today I recycled exactly 24 bottles of prosecco and wine. One bottle each on average, and considering some people drank a lot (probably including myself, I cannot remember :) there must've been a number of people driving and being careful with alcohol.
Only one mishap, and of course a child was involved. The 6-year-old wanted to try my spin bike and broke it! I think she probably pressed all the buttons at once and caused a shortage of the circuits. We noticed when smoke started to come out of the bike, and it started to smell burned rubber. The bike is now residing on my balcony (no way was I going to sleep with that hazard in the house), and I guess it's a goner.
Later a new tenant in the house joined, and it turned out that he's a guitar player. Good thing I kept my guitar, which I played when I was about 15 and got a top grade for in school. And before you mention it, yes it was a helluva long time ago!
And it all went smoothly (even though the guy who promised to help me didn't!), with 24 guests. And for once I didn't cook too much, just enough. 84 meatballs went with the wind, two trays with beef tartar (brought by a friend) together with two trays of pastry with chilipaste and cheese were empty by the end of the evening. Peanuts were eaten. A large cheese plate left two tiny bites. Six loafs of bread and almost three cakes were consumed. The only thing left was half a bowl of tomato salad :). Too healthy I presume.
And today I recycled exactly 24 bottles of prosecco and wine. One bottle each on average, and considering some people drank a lot (probably including myself, I cannot remember :) there must've been a number of people driving and being careful with alcohol.
Only one mishap, and of course a child was involved. The 6-year-old wanted to try my spin bike and broke it! I think she probably pressed all the buttons at once and caused a shortage of the circuits. We noticed when smoke started to come out of the bike, and it started to smell burned rubber. The bike is now residing on my balcony (no way was I going to sleep with that hazard in the house), and I guess it's a goner.
Later a new tenant in the house joined, and it turned out that he's a guitar player. Good thing I kept my guitar, which I played when I was about 15 and got a top grade for in school. And before you mention it, yes it was a helluva long time ago!
Wednesday, March 09, 2016
Thursday, March 03, 2016
A helluva lot of Swissies
Let's see if I get the numbers right. Last year around 30,000 immigrants were granted citizenship in Switzerland, two thirds of them had to go through the lengthy and costly process that I did, and one third had it a bit easier. At least processwize, since they were refugees. I imagine that they had the difficulties beforehand.
Today I was at at party arranged by the city of Zürich, in order to welcome the new Swissies. 2015 some 3,600 people were granted citizenship in Zürich, and 1,700 of them showed up for this evenings event.
We were greeted by the "Stadtpräsidentin" Corinne, who told us that we were over 100 nationalities, the majority being Germans of course, but also a few countries where there were only one person who made it through the process. Those countries were Barbados, Benin, Guinea-Bissau and I think Indonesia. And that she was happy that the initiative to throw out foreigners was not accepted in the last election. Big applause.
Then then were some music, and a new Swissie, an author, who had been to the party last year, who talked about why she came to love Switzerland and why it's important to vote. I agree.
After that not too lengthy session, about an hour, there was an apero with food and drinks. Very well organized in the congress hall, and I was lucky enough to go with my neighbour. She also became a Swissie last year. It was fun.
Unfortunately I didn't get to talk to any of the politicians, people were queueing up to get selfies or doublies or whatever they are called. But now that I'm a real Swissie, I can hold my head up high and get in contact through email, and they will have to listen to what I say :). Direct democracy, I love it!
Today I was at at party arranged by the city of Zürich, in order to welcome the new Swissies. 2015 some 3,600 people were granted citizenship in Zürich, and 1,700 of them showed up for this evenings event.
We were greeted by the "Stadtpräsidentin" Corinne, who told us that we were over 100 nationalities, the majority being Germans of course, but also a few countries where there were only one person who made it through the process. Those countries were Barbados, Benin, Guinea-Bissau and I think Indonesia. And that she was happy that the initiative to throw out foreigners was not accepted in the last election. Big applause.
Then then were some music, and a new Swissie, an author, who had been to the party last year, who talked about why she came to love Switzerland and why it's important to vote. I agree.
After that not too lengthy session, about an hour, there was an apero with food and drinks. Very well organized in the congress hall, and I was lucky enough to go with my neighbour. She also became a Swissie last year. It was fun.
Unfortunately I didn't get to talk to any of the politicians, people were queueing up to get selfies or doublies or whatever they are called. But now that I'm a real Swissie, I can hold my head up high and get in contact through email, and they will have to listen to what I say :). Direct democracy, I love it!
Wednesday, March 02, 2016
Eagles
I just saw a shadow outside my window, and to my surprise I saw this big bird fly by. It looked like an eagle to me, it was huge. Bigger than a seagull. Brown and wide wings. But it cannot be possible, eagles in the city? Nah, must be some sort of related bird, a hawk? Are there even eagles in Switzerland?
One thing for sure, am not letting the cats out today.
One thing for sure, am not letting the cats out today.
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Brand new filling
Went to see my gorgeous dentist today. I wish it would have been under other circumstances. He's always so cheerful and acts like he's happy to see me again, and yadi-yadi-yada I understand he's like that with everybody, but still, it's nice.
The reason was that a filling was coming lose, and needed replacement. And I don't get that mankind put a man on the moon nearly 50 years ago, and still haven't invented drills that aren't so noisy it feels like your head is gonna explode.
Nearly an hour it took to remove the old filling, and replace it, and at one point I had kinduva mask over my face. Felt really weird. I wish that I once could look my best with gorgeous man, and not like something out of a horror film with half my face hanging down due to anaesthetics. Just sayin'.
The reason was that a filling was coming lose, and needed replacement. And I don't get that mankind put a man on the moon nearly 50 years ago, and still haven't invented drills that aren't so noisy it feels like your head is gonna explode.
Nearly an hour it took to remove the old filling, and replace it, and at one point I had kinduva mask over my face. Felt really weird. I wish that I once could look my best with gorgeous man, and not like something out of a horror film with half my face hanging down due to anaesthetics. Just sayin'.
Saturday, February 20, 2016
Kids, kids everywhere
I know, it's been a while. Not that I haven't had something to say, but time flies and enough with excuses.
Today I was at a birthday party with plenty of kids. The birthday person herself had reached an age even older than me (!), but with a large family there was no getting away. There were kids friggin everywhere! If I wanted to move my chair I had to look out. But I have to admit. They were well behaved.
The thirteen kids aging between 1 and 17 were quiet in comparison to the two monsters living next door. Which leads me to believe that after two kids, they start to educate each other and the parents get more relaxed. I saw food being passed on to the kid being more hungry, kids taking care of each other without bothering the parents, and we the adults could have uninterrupted conversations.
If all parents could be like that, I wouldn't dislike kids so much. Yeah right, in my dreams.
Today I was at a birthday party with plenty of kids. The birthday person herself had reached an age even older than me (!), but with a large family there was no getting away. There were kids friggin everywhere! If I wanted to move my chair I had to look out. But I have to admit. They were well behaved.
The thirteen kids aging between 1 and 17 were quiet in comparison to the two monsters living next door. Which leads me to believe that after two kids, they start to educate each other and the parents get more relaxed. I saw food being passed on to the kid being more hungry, kids taking care of each other without bothering the parents, and we the adults could have uninterrupted conversations.
If all parents could be like that, I wouldn't dislike kids so much. Yeah right, in my dreams.
Tuesday, February 09, 2016
A little shopping spree
So I did go shopping today. First I bought a pair of jogging pants, I mean proper ones. I used to powerwalk/jog in old mans shorts, that I bought in South Africa (urgently needed something to swim in) a long time ago, so well invested money, even though it was full price. Ouch!
Then I found a skirt for 5 francs (yippee!) and two sweaters for the price of one. As well as a pair of tights in another store for a whopping 17 francs! H&M used to sell tights for like 3 for 10, but not anymore. However, they are very slimming and for that worth its price.
Slowly but surely I am expanding my wardrobe, and for once this evening my guests will see me in something new. I wonder if they will notice?
Then I found a skirt for 5 francs (yippee!) and two sweaters for the price of one. As well as a pair of tights in another store for a whopping 17 francs! H&M used to sell tights for like 3 for 10, but not anymore. However, they are very slimming and for that worth its price.
Slowly but surely I am expanding my wardrobe, and for once this evening my guests will see me in something new. I wonder if they will notice?
Monday, February 08, 2016
No shopping spree
I had a lunch date in the city today, and thought that I'd finally get around to go shopping for clothes while there. Most of my stuff is falling apart from wear and tear, and to be honest, aging. Fashion has never been my thing, and every time I walk into a clothing shop I get pain in my back and feel an urgent need to get out and have a ciggie.
But I did try. However, I had to visit a friend who works in the city and who wanted to go for a drink (hey, when did I ever say no to that?), and I had to check on the boat. And then conveniently my tram arrived, and I immediately postponed the shopping for tomorrow.
At least I came home with a brand new pair of shoes (50% off!!) and a purple powerband. It's one of these thingies you work out your arms with (am trying to avoid bingowings). The guy in the shop looked a bit funny at me, when I told him I wanted a purple. Apparently there are different colours for different strengths of the band. Purple is strong in case you're interested. Personally I think colour is more important than functionality ;).
But I did try. However, I had to visit a friend who works in the city and who wanted to go for a drink (hey, when did I ever say no to that?), and I had to check on the boat. And then conveniently my tram arrived, and I immediately postponed the shopping for tomorrow.
At least I came home with a brand new pair of shoes (50% off!!) and a purple powerband. It's one of these thingies you work out your arms with (am trying to avoid bingowings). The guy in the shop looked a bit funny at me, when I told him I wanted a purple. Apparently there are different colours for different strengths of the band. Purple is strong in case you're interested. Personally I think colour is more important than functionality ;).
Wednesday, February 03, 2016
Unexpected meeting
I had an extremely nice day yesterday. First I had an old friend over in the afternoon, and we had no shortage of things to talk about over homemade brownies and Irish coffee. No better way to spend a cold afternoon.
In the evening I had made an appointment for a guy to look at my guest room. Flatmate is leaving, he's found his own abode, and I am currently looking for a new person.
The day before yesterday a woman was here, but I got some funny vibes, so not sure about her. The guy yesterday on the other hand, omg. It was like we've known each other a long time, and we talked, talked, talked about everything and nothing. He ended up staying for six hours, we had dinner and kept on talking. The only catch is that he yesterday got a new job offer away from Zürich, otherwise he could've practically moved in directly. So let's see how it goes, if he decides to leave beautiful Zürich.
Funny that, how you with some people get along so well so quickly, and others not.
In the evening I had made an appointment for a guy to look at my guest room. Flatmate is leaving, he's found his own abode, and I am currently looking for a new person.
The day before yesterday a woman was here, but I got some funny vibes, so not sure about her. The guy yesterday on the other hand, omg. It was like we've known each other a long time, and we talked, talked, talked about everything and nothing. He ended up staying for six hours, we had dinner and kept on talking. The only catch is that he yesterday got a new job offer away from Zürich, otherwise he could've practically moved in directly. So let's see how it goes, if he decides to leave beautiful Zürich.
Funny that, how you with some people get along so well so quickly, and others not.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Ze Swiss railways
It's been a little while since I wrote last, I really don't know what happened, but all of a sudden I felt no need to write. Weird that.
But here I am again to tell you about ze Swiss railways. The other day I got a letter sent to all citizens in Zürich, talking about some railway maintenance taking place between Hardbrücke and Oerlikon between February and mid March. At night.
Yes, I realize there are people travelling on the trains between 22.00 and 5.30, but to tell all of Zürich about it? Wouldn't it be enough to post information at the train stations about it? Six Fridays and one Monday according to the letter.
Especially since the last sentence in the letter reads "Die Züge fahren trotz Bauarbeiten fahrplanmässig", meaning the trains go according to the timetable despite the construction work.
Hmm. Using my tax money to send a letter like this, not ok Zürich if you ask me.
But here I am again to tell you about ze Swiss railways. The other day I got a letter sent to all citizens in Zürich, talking about some railway maintenance taking place between Hardbrücke and Oerlikon between February and mid March. At night.
Yes, I realize there are people travelling on the trains between 22.00 and 5.30, but to tell all of Zürich about it? Wouldn't it be enough to post information at the train stations about it? Six Fridays and one Monday according to the letter.
Especially since the last sentence in the letter reads "Die Züge fahren trotz Bauarbeiten fahrplanmässig", meaning the trains go according to the timetable despite the construction work.
Hmm. Using my tax money to send a letter like this, not ok Zürich if you ask me.
Sunday, January 10, 2016
A friendly ghost
In my home the man spends a lot more time in the bathroom than I do. I'm the type who showers quickly, dresses, a wee bit of mascara and I'm done.
Today flatmate offered to share his face-mask with me, an offer which I laughingly turned down, being the natural beauty that I am. Can you blame me?
Today flatmate offered to share his face-mask with me, an offer which I laughingly turned down, being the natural beauty that I am. Can you blame me?
Saturday, January 09, 2016
I love kids
Ok, let me rephrase that. I love people, who happens to be parents, throwing a birthday party for a 3-year-old. Or rather, not. They didn't throw a birthday party, that'll come later, but I was there and we, the grownups, were having wine and cake and funny conversations. The kids were playing on their own, which was perfectly fine with me.
Any reason for a party is a good one if you ask me.
Any reason for a party is a good one if you ask me.
Monday, January 04, 2016
Respect in da house
Today I had the pleasure of scaring the shit outta my flatmate.
I have a painting since many years with a frame that I never liked, and today was the day I was gonna change that. So flatmate and I dissembled the painting, separating it from the frame. And the glass broke. A little piece in one corner broke off, but no point in saving it so I brought a plastic bag to put the remains in.
Only it wouldn't fit, one piece of glass was too big, and he was too scared to break it in smaller pieces. He looked at me, helplessly, and I decided it was time for action. So I took my flip-flop-clad foot, put it down the plastic bag and crushed it! You should've seen his face, haha.
I am pretty sure he has a newfound respect for me.
I have a painting since many years with a frame that I never liked, and today was the day I was gonna change that. So flatmate and I dissembled the painting, separating it from the frame. And the glass broke. A little piece in one corner broke off, but no point in saving it so I brought a plastic bag to put the remains in.
Only it wouldn't fit, one piece of glass was too big, and he was too scared to break it in smaller pieces. He looked at me, helplessly, and I decided it was time for action. So I took my flip-flop-clad foot, put it down the plastic bag and crushed it! You should've seen his face, haha.
I am pretty sure he has a newfound respect for me.
NY resolutions
My New Years resolutions this year was to reduce my smoking, to start sporting again and to buy new clothes.
The smoking goes ok considering my previous consumption, but is still way too much.
In December I kinda gave up sporting, blaming the weather and whatsit, but fact is, I was just too lazy. And it has shown on the scale. Today I started again, despite heavy rain and a cold, by powerwalking/jogging up the mountain and back. Pat on back, but I have to keep on going. Which I in a strange way look fw to.
The clothes shopping is still on the list, and if I could choose it would stay there forever, HATE shopping, but have to. I cannot keep walking around in clothes with holes in them forever.
So far so good.
The smoking goes ok considering my previous consumption, but is still way too much.
In December I kinda gave up sporting, blaming the weather and whatsit, but fact is, I was just too lazy. And it has shown on the scale. Today I started again, despite heavy rain and a cold, by powerwalking/jogging up the mountain and back. Pat on back, but I have to keep on going. Which I in a strange way look fw to.
The clothes shopping is still on the list, and if I could choose it would stay there forever, HATE shopping, but have to. I cannot keep walking around in clothes with holes in them forever.
So far so good.
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