Uni Therapy

The Beatles - Hello, Goodbye

2011-06-07T15:30:00.000+02:00

2011-06-07T15:26:00.002+02:00

@ TDS

2011-05-31T18:01:00.000+02:00

Discriminated cows...

2011-05-31T17:55:00.004+02:00

Endeavour

2011-05-16T15:10:00.000+02:00

In line of my sogging (study averting behaviour), I just watched the Endeavour go up for the very last time. Incredible how they succeeded to launch this time. Good luck crew!

http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/nasatv/index.html
(you can still watch the flight and commentary)

CSR day

2011-04-02T21:53:00.001+02:00

Finally! The CSR project is coming to an end. Though I have enjoyed it it has been exhausting too. By now I know the exact and most complete meaning of Murphy's law.

So all of you who are in Brussels the 5th of April.. Come by!!!

Yet another update

2011-04-02T20:01:00.000+02:00

It has been ages since I have actually written here.. so time for yet another update.

As for AIESEC everything is incredibly busy. Next week is the CSR day, and we still have an incredible amount of stuff to do. Within ER everything is hectic too.. and to make things even better we are having an ER football match next week Friday evening. Somewhere deep inside my bleak and ugly mind I hope it rains so I can go home and punch some people.

Talking of punching people, I've taken up sports again. This time I'm adding my legs to my set of painful weapons. Trainings are though, but I have the advantage of being able to punch people, my legs will catch up soon. The other great advantage is that I'm the one and only girl around, and I get to practice with the big boys!

To continue about big boys.. mine is out this weekend. He's camping with some volunteer friends he met at a festival last year. Luckily I'm not allowed :-) Besides the deadlines and my exam next week.. Oh who am I kidding! I miss him!

Getting back to normal

2011-03-03T21:49:00.000+01:00

Exams are over, my life is nearly back on track and I've just sent an email to my study coordinator regarding my summer school application. After last years fiasco I will just try it again. I really hope I will be going to the University of Copenhagen this summer to study genocides in Africa! Fingers crossed!

The AIESEC CSR project is more or less up and running, and I will be calling lots and lots of companies to get them as speakers on our event. So if you own/work at/know someone who works at a company based in Belgium that deals with CSR please let me know! Our event is simple, on the 5th of April we would like to give a seminar on the VUB campus on CSR. Lots of students will be there and it is a real opportunity to connect to them and promote your brand!

Things are still getting better with the TDS. Slowly I'm becoming 'one of those people': too happy, too cuddly and too loving. I can't wait for summer weather to take him out on picnics.. He is just too sweet!

2011-02-14T18:43:00.002+01:00

On exams

2011-01-20T21:15:00.000+01:00

It is a near certainty, I'm howling mad! You might ask yourself why I suddenly out myself as a crazy person, the reason is simple: exams. The two months a year that I'm hidden behind books I professors require me to read I feel extraordinary. I can cope with stress, deadlines, no-coffee, heaps of paper, exams dates closing in and studying. The thrill of studying (and being useful) makes me feel alive.

I'm sure all of you know that person that is not stressed before any exam, walks in confidently, sits down, manages with only one pen, fills in the answers, hands in (as one of the first), and walks out. Well, that person is me. No stress, only confidence!

Here's to exams!

(bad thing is that I will not be seeing The TDS until it's over, only two-and-a-half more weeks to go) :-(

Summer can't come soon enough!

2011-01-17T18:24:00.002+01:00

God, I need a (summer) vacation.. especially after hearing this on the radio! Summer can't be here soon enough! x

Lovin' the lyrics

2011-01-11T22:06:00.002+01:00

"Everybody is free to wear sunscreen"

by Baz Luhrman

Ladies and Gentlemen of the class of '97,

Wear sunscreen. If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it. The long term

benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists, whereas the rest of my advice has no basis or

reliable then my own meandering experience. I will dispense this advice....now.

Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth. Oh, never mind, you won't understand the power and

beauty of your youth until they've faded, but trust me in 20 years, you'll look back at photos of

yourself and recall in a way you can't grasp now how much possibility lay before you and how fabulous

you really looked. You are not as fat as you imagine.

Don't worry about the future, or worry, but know that worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra

equation by chewing bubblegum.

The real troubles in your life are apt to be things that never crossed your worried mind: the kind that blind sides you at 4pm on some idle Tuesday.

Do one thing every day that scares you.

Sing.

Don't be reckless with other people's hearts; don't put up with people who are reckless with yours.

Floss.

Don't waste your time on jealousy. Sometimes you're ahead, sometimes you're behind. The race is

long, and in the end, it's only with yourself.

Remember compliments you receive; forget the insults. (if you succeed in doing this, tell me how).

Keep your old love letters; throw away your old bank statements.

Stretch.

Don't feel guilty if you don't know what you want to do with your life. The most interesting people

I know didn't know at 22 what they wanted to do with their lives; some of the most interesting 40 year

olds I know still don't.

Get plenty of Calcium. Be kind to your knees -- you'll miss them when they're gone.

Maybe you'll marry, maybe you won't. Maybe you'll have children, maybe you won't. Maybe you'll

divorce at 40; maybe you'll dance the funky chicken on your 75th wedding anniversary.

Whatever you do, don't congratulate yourself too much or berate yourself, either. Your choices are half

chance, so are everybody else's.

Enjoy your body: use it every way you can. Don't be afraid of it or what other people think of it; it's the

greatest instrument you'll ever own.

Dance...even if you have no where to do it but in your own living room.

Read the directions (even if you don't follow them).

Do not read beauty magazines; they will only make you feel ugly.

Get to know your parents; you never know when they'll be gone for good.

Be nice to your siblings: they're your best link to your past and the people most likely to stick with you in

the future.

Understand that friends come and go, but what a precious few should hold on. Work hard to bridge the gaps

and geography and lifestyle, because the older you get, the more you need the people you knew when you

were young.

Live in New York City once, but leave before it makes you hard.

Live in Northern California once, but leave before it makes you soft.

Travel.

Accept certain inalienable truths: prices will rise, politicians will philander, you too will get old; and when you

do, you'll fantasize that when you were young, prices were reasonable, politicians were noble, and children

respected their elders.

Respect your elders.

Don't expect anyone else to support you. Maybe you have a trust fund, maybe you'll have a wealthy spouse,

but you never know when either one might run out.

Don't mess too much with your hair or by the time you are 40, it will look 85.

Be careful whose advice you buy, but be patient with those who supply it. Advice is a form of nostalgia;

dispensing it is a way of wishing the past from the disposal--wiping it off, painting over the ugly parts, and

recycling it for more than it's worth.

But trust me, I'm the sunscreen.

Dad..

2011-01-11T17:23:00.000+01:00

I seriously have the most kind, loving and overall greatest friends ever! Yesterday my dad suffered a minor transient ischemic attack (mini stroke) and was sent to the hospital. Everything seems to be going better..

My best friend went by with chocolate and a plant (and received lots of new information). The TDS asked if we should go this Saturday.. Before you start thinking I'm unwilling to visit, remember I have exams soon and I'm in Belgium, whereas my dad is in Holland.

Aren't those the best people ever!

TED - How the net aids dictatorships

2011-01-07T21:51:00.001+01:00

This coincides with the paper I just wrote & will soon publish on this blog.. as soon as I have handed it in!

My life right now

2011-01-06T12:08:00.000+01:00

The strangest thing

2011-01-05T21:52:00.000+01:00

From: take-hart.com/worldpress

Lately the strangest thing had been happening. Ever since The TDS is staying nights over (every weekend) I have been waking up when he is no longer there. Let me specify, whenever he is with me in my tiny bed I'm too hot. I even nearly suffocate when he is wrapped around me and cuddling me whilst I am asleep. It eats him up he can not wrap himself around me without me gasping for air.

So in short I have sleeping problems when he is around. And now I even have them whenever he is not. I wake up thinking he, or his arm, or his lips are touching me (I even kiss back in a sleepy state). But then I realise he is not there, and it will probably be some days before he indeed does sleep over again.

Similar to most 'manly things' you can't go with it, and you can't go without it.. even sleeping next to each other. Other examples are brave talk, a little macho arrogance and that protective look.

Happy new year!

2011-01-03T17:48:00.000+01:00

Happy new year everyone! I hope you all got through this year safely, and are ready to ROCK 2011!!

I'll keep it short for studying's sake, but this years resolution is to keep on doing what I am! Everything seems to be going bloody well, so why change a winning concept?

What is your new years resolution?

Who's the cutest?

2010-12-26T17:01:00.002+01:00

NPT - exam (just war theory)

2010-12-23T20:19:00.003+01:00

This is the synopsis of the book Moral Constraints on War by Bruno Coppieters (also to be found in my book list). I have to learn it for my exam on normative political theory a.k.a. just war theory, so I might as well post it here.

Jus Ad Bellum

1) Just Cause

a. Protect international peace

b. Response to a direct act of violence

c. Protect human rights

2) Legitimate Authority

a. Problems of internal sovereignty

i. National force against collaborating regimes

ii. Revolutionary movements

iii. Anti-colonial struggles

b. Problems of external sovereignty

i. Only UNSC

ii. UNSC + regional organizations

iii. Only sovereign states

3) Right Intentions

a. Interpretation:

i. Only RIP

ii. RIP priming others

iii. RIP present among others

b. 4 – step approach

i. List intentions

ii. Categorise intentions

iii. Analyse morally

iv. Are intentions present in actions?

4) Likelihood of Success

a. Problem of definition

b. Success => just cause -or- Just cause => success?

5) Proportionality

a. Measurement problems – only works with extremes

6) Last Resort

a. Economic Sanctions

i. Problem of efficiency

1. Signal international disapproval

2. Alternation of government policies?

ii. Problem of in bello principles

1. Proportionality

2. Discrimination

b. Classic Diplomatic Principles

i. Do not suspend diplomatic relations

ii. Express national interest clearly

iii. Place conflict on International security organization to permit preventive action

iv. Do not neglect opportunities for quiet diplomacy

Jus In Bello

1) Proportionality

a. Underlying assumptions

i. Only consequences count

ii. Only welfare consequences count (and inanimate objects insofar humans give them meaning)

iii. It is possible to measure welfare consequences

b. Principle of Double Effect (PDE)

i. Only intended actions are expected to have good effects (D)

ii. Intended good effects should be greater than the unintended bad effects (P)

iii. Action is not permitted is there is a better alternative (better ratio, less harm) (LR)

2) Discrimination

a. Discrimination between appropriate an inappropriate targets, based on the nature of the targets

b. Noncombatant Immunity

i. Not in uniform, wounded, or prisoner of war

ii. Chain of agency concept

iii. Principle of Double Effect

Sharia4Holland?!

2010-12-23T10:36:00.002+01:00

There are mornings that you have your little breakfast and a cup of tea and decide to switch on the radio. Since I am Dutch I prefer to put on Radio 1. This morning they had an interview with the newest extremist organisation in Holland: Sharia4Holland. Their goal (like it was in Belgium not too long ago) is to impose the Sharia in Holland/Belgium.

You probably oppose this idea, some of you may support it. However this is not the discussion I want to have. If you have an extremist point of view, and you are invited on national radio, please get the facts in your monologue right! Just a few examples:

Apparently Muslims are not democratic. You can't have a Jewish Christian, or a Jewish Muslim, or a Christian Muslim, ergo you can't have a democratic Muslim.
If the Sharia is implemented, the youngest horrific events such as the abuse of young children in childcare, would never happen (link). Yes, the Sharia would prevent the actions by Robert M. and people like him.

It is a shame, I would have enjoyed a good debate on early morning radio. But after remarks similar to the ones I just summed op, I can not take it seriously. End of debate!

The broadcast is to be found on http://www.radio1.nl, at 10h00 on the 23/12/2010. I will do my best to find a direct link or a copy. It's worth hearing.

Chocolosophy

2010-12-20T22:18:00.000+01:00

If anyone is still looking for an appropriate Christmas gift:

Yes, they are classy and yes, they are made entirely out of chocolate! ;)

http://www.chocolosophy.es/ (they even have guy stuff)

Winter cold

2010-12-20T17:17:00.001+01:00

There is something about winter. The cold, the warmth and the coco. Not forgetting long everlasting hugs, walks in the snow and visits to Christmas markets. Perhaps it's because I have the best boyfriend a girl could imagine, but unlike every other year I'm actually enjoying the cold and the snow! Ho ho ho, merry Christmas!

Ever since the 5th of December (st. Nicolas) I've been in the most jolly Christmas mood. Even though my apartment looks nowhere near Christmassy, I am. If you ever decide to drop by one of these day's, don't be surprised by the carols and jingles coming from my laptop. Albeit this episode of mindlessness could also be accounted to pre-exam stress.

If everything goes to plan I will be spending Christmas eve and Christmas day with 'the in laws'. TDS has invited me over. In short this means that I'm a tat stressed (however TDS and his mum seem to be even more stressed than I am, something that does indeed comfort me). To cope with this 'uneasiness' I will be spending the 24th having a steam bath and a haircut with one of my best friends.

Study time

2010-12-13T17:07:00.003+01:00

This semesters exams will be held little over a month from today. So: STUDY TIME! Good luck to all of you, and to anyone who has some deadline or just heaps of work to do!

By the way today and tomorrow are National Hug a Stressed Unioversity Student Day 2010 - all hugs are welcome! The Facebook RSVP link is below.

National Hug A Stressed University Student Day 2010

Bushisms

2010-12-08T18:23:00.002+01:00

As a law abiding fervent politics student I stand ashamed that I did not even know of the existence of 'Bushisms'. However I knew he had made some silly remarks over the years (with as best one: I just want you to know that, when we talk about war, we're really talking about peace - made at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Washington, D.C. on June 18th 2002).

I seriously hope you enjoy this as much as I did, here it goes.

"I miss being pampered." --George W. Bush, reflecting on his presidency, University of Texas at Tyler, Oct. 19, 2010

"This is my maiden voyage. My first speech since I was the president of the United States and I couldn't think of a better place to give it than Calgary, Canada." --George W. Bush, as reported by the Associated Press, Calgary, Canada, March 17, 2009

"I'm going to put people in my place, so when the history of this administration is written at least there's an authoritarian voice saying exactly what happened." --George W. Bush, on what he hopes to accomplish with his memoir, as reported by the Associated Press, Calgary, Canada, March 17, 2009

"One of the very difficult parts of the decision I made on the financial crisis was to use hardworking people's money to help prevent there to be a crisis." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Jan. 12, 2009

"I'm telling you there's an enemy that would like to attack America, Americans, again. There just is. That's the reality of the world. And I wish him all the very best." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Jan. 12, 2009

"In terms of the economy, look, I inherited a recession, I am ending on a recession." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Jan. 12, 2009

"I guess it's OK to call the secretary of education here 'buddy.' That means friend." --George W. Bush, Philadelphia, Jan. 8, 2009

"So I analyzed that and decided I didn't want to be the president during a depression greater than the Great Depression, or the beginning of a depression greater than the Great Depression." --George W. Bush, Washington D.C., Dec. 18, 2008

"People say, well, do you ever hear any other voices other than, like, a few people? Of course I do." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Dec. 18, 2008

"I've abandoned free market principles to save the free market system." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Dec. 16, 2008

"You know, I'm the President during this period of time, but I think when the history of this period is written, people will realize a lot of the decisions that were made on Wall Street took place over a decade or so, before I arrived in President, during I arrived in President." --George W. Bush, ABC News interview, Dec. 1, 2008

"I've been in the Bible every day since I've been the president." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Nov. 12, 2008

"He was a great father before politics, a great father during politics and a great father after politics." --George W. Bush, on his father, George H.W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Nov. 12, 2008

"Yesterday, you made note of my -- the lack of my talent when it came to dancing. But nevertheless, I want you to know I danced with joy. And no question Liberia has gone through very difficult times." --George W. Bush, speaking with the president of Liberia, Washington, D.C., Oct. 22, 2008

"I want to share with you an interesting program -- for two reasons, one, it's interesting, and two, my wife thought of it -- or has actually been involved with it; she didn't think of it. But she thought of it for this speech." --George W. Bush, discussing a company that improves access to clean water in Africa, Washington D.C., Oct. 21, 2008

"This thaw -- took a while to thaw, it's going to take a while to unthaw." --George W. Bush, on liquidity in the markets, Alexandria, La., Oct. 20, 2008

"I didn't grow up in the ocean -- as a matter of fact -- near the ocean -- I grew up in the desert. Therefore, it was a pleasant contrast to see the ocean. And I particularly like it when I'm fishing." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Sept. 26, 2008

"Anyone engaging in illegal financial transactions will be caught and persecuted." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Sept. 19, 2008

"We're fixing to go down to Galveston and obviously are going to see a devastated part of this fantastic state." --George W. Bush, Houston, Sept. 16, 2008

"The people in Louisiana must know that all across our country there's a lot of prayer -- prayer for those whose lives have been turned upside down. And I'm one of them." --George W. Bush, Baton Rouge, La., Sept. 3, 2008

"First of all, I don't see America having problems." --George W. Bush, interview with Bob Costas at the 2008 Olympics, Beijing, China, Aug. 10, 2008

"I'm coming as the president of a friend, and I'm coming as a sportsman." --George W. Bush, on his trip to the Olympics in China, Washington, D.C., July 30, 2008

"There's no question about it. Wall Street got drunk -- that's one of the reasons I asked you to turn off the TV cameras -- it got drunk and now it's got a hangover. The question is how long will it sober up and not try to do all these fancy financial instruments." --George W. Bush, speaking at a private fundraiser, Houston, Texas, July 18, 2008 (Watch video clip)

"I think it was in the Rose Garden where I issued this brilliant statement: If I had a magic wand -- but the president doesn't have a magic wand. You just can't say, 'low gas.'" --George W. Bush, Washington D.C., July 15, 2008

"And they have no disregard for human life." --George W. Bush, on the brutality of Afghan fighters, Washington, D.C., July 15, 2008

"The economy is growing, productivity is high, trade is up, people are working. It's not as good as we'd like, but -- and to the extent that we find weakness, we'll move." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., July 15, 2008

"Goodbye from the world's biggest polluter." --George W. Bush, in parting words to British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and French President Nicolas Sarkozy at his final G-8 Summit, punching the air and grinning widely as the two leaders looked on in shock, Rusutsu, Japan, July 10, 2008

"Amigo! Amigo!" --George W. Bush, calling out to Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi in Spanish at the G-8 Summit, Rusutsu, Japan, July 10, 2008

"Throughout our history, the words of the Declaration have inspired immigrants from around the world to set sail to our shores. These immigrants have helped transform 13 small colonies into a great and growing nation of more than 300 people." --George W. Bush, Charlottesville, Va., July 4, 2008

"Should the Iranian regime-do they have the sovereign right to have civilian nuclear power? So, like, if I were you, that's what I'd ask me. And the answer is, yes, they do." --George W. Bush, talking to reporters in Washington, D.C., July 2, 2008

"But oftentimes I'm asked: Why? Why do you care what happens outside of America?" --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., June 26,2008

"I want to tell you how proud I am to be the President of a nation that -- in which there's a lot of Philippine-Americans. They love America and they love their heritage. And I reminded the President that I am reminded of the great talent of the -- of our Philippine-Americans when I eat dinner at the White House." --George W. Bush, referring to White House chef Cristeta Comerford while meeting with Filipino President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Washington, D.C., June 24, 2008 (Watch video clip)

"I remember meeting a mother of a child who was abducted by the North Koreans right here in the Oval Office." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., June 26, 2008

"And I, unfortunately, have been to too many disasters as president." --George W. Bush, discussing flooding in the Midwest, Washington, D.C., June 17, 2008

"There is some who say that perhaps freedom is not universal. Maybe it's only Western people that can self-govern. Maybe it's only, you know, white-guy Methodists who are capable of self-government. I reject that notion." --George W. Bush, London, June 16, 2008

"Your eminence, you're looking good." --George W. Bush to Pope Benedict XVI, using the title for Catholic cardinals, rather than addressing him as "your holiness," Rome, June 13, 2008

"The German asparagus are fabulous." --George W. Bush, Meseberg, Germany, June 11, 2008

"We've got a lot of relations with countries in our neighborhood." --George W. Bush, Kranj, Slovenia, June 10, 2008

"One of the things important about history is to remember the true history." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., June 6, 2008

"There's no question this is a major human disaster that requires a strong response from the Chinese government, which is what they're providing, but it also responds a compassionate response from nations to whom -- that have got the blessings, good blessings of life, and that's us." --George W. Bush, on relief efforts after a Chinese earthquake, Washington, D.C., June 6, 2008

"Let's make sure that there is certainty during uncertain times in our economy." -- George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., June 2, 2008

"We got plenty of money in Washington. What we need is more priority." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., June 2, 2008

"And so the fact that they purchased the machine meant somebody had to make the machine. And when somebody makes a machine, it means there's jobs at the machine-making place." --George W. Bush, Mesa, Arizona, May 27, 2008

"I don't want some mom whose son may have recently died to see the commander in chief playing golf. I feel I owe it to the families to be in solidarity as best as I can with them. And I think playing golf during a war just sends the wrong signal." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., May 13, 2008

"I'll be long gone before some smart person ever figures out what happened inside this Oval Office." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., May 12, 2008

"How can you possibly have an international agreement that's effective unless countries like China and India are not full participants?" --George W. Bush, Camp David, April 19, 2008

"Oftentimes people ask me, 'Why is it that you're so focused on helping the hungry and diseased in strange parts of the world?'" --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., April 18, 2008

"We want people owning their home -- we want people owning a businesses." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., April 18, 2008

"So long as I'm the president, my measure of success is victory -- and success." --George W. Bush, on Iraq, Washington, D.C., April 17, 2008

"Thank you, your Holiness. Awesome speech." --George W. Bush, to Pope Benedict, Washington, D.C., April 15, 2008 (Watch video clip)

"A lot of times in politics you have people look you in the eye and tell you what's not on their mind." --George W. Bush, Sochi, Russia, April 6, 2008

"Afghanistan is the most daring and ambition mission in the history of NATO." --George W. Bush, Bucharest, Romania, April 2, 2008

"Soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen, and Coastmen -- Coast Guardmen, thanks for coming, thanks for wearing the uniform." --George W. Bush, at the Pentagon, March 19, 2008

"I thank the diplomatic corps, who is here as well." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., March 12, 2008

"Removing Saddam Hussein was the right decision early in my presidency, it is the right decision now, and it will be the right decision ever." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., March 12, 2008

"Let me start off by saying that in 2000 I said, 'Vote for me. I'm an agent of change.' In 2004, I said, 'I'm not interested in change --I want to continue as president.' Every candidate has got to say 'change.' That's what the American people expect." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., March 5, 2008

"And so, General, I want to thank you for your service. And I appreciate the fact that you really snatched defeat out of the jaws of those who are trying to defeat us in Iraq." --George W. Bush, to Army Gen. Ray Odierno, Washington, D.C., March 3, 2008

"Wait a minute. What did you just say? You're predicting $4-a-gallon gas? ... That's interesting. I hadn't heard that." --George W. Bush, Washington, D.C., Feb. 28, 2008

"I'm oftentimes asked, What difference does it make to America if people are dying of malaria in a place like Ghana? It means a lot. It means a lot morally, it means a lot from a -- it's in our national interest." --George W. Bush, Accra, Ghana, Feb. 20, 2008

"There is no doubt in my mind when history was written, the final page will say: Victory was achieved by the United States of America for the good of the world." --George W. Bush, addressing U.S. troops at Camp Arifjan in Kuwait, Jan. 12, 2008

"I can press when there needs to be pressed; I can hold hands when there needs to be -- hold hands." --George W. Bush, on how he can contribute to the Middle East peace process, Washington, D.C., Jan. 4, 2008

Source: politicalhumor.about.com

One Month

2010-12-07T00:21:00.000+01:00

One month (OMG) and still going strong!

Snow!!

2010-12-05T19:40:00.000+01:00

Finally! SNOW!! This long weekend I decided to go home to see my parents and the dog, and to celebrate St. Nicolas. To recap the weekend in short; great gifts, finally seen my friends again in real life, long walks in the woods, our cutie dog and some really family time (without any arguments!).

Tomorrow I'm going back to Belgium. It's time to start studying for my January exams, and to start stressing for my Christmas dinner @ The TDS. Not really looking forward to either, but hey, at least there is some snow!

At least -8000 outside

2010-11-29T18:03:00.000+01:00

Winter came soon this year! Well, winter.. there is snow in Holland, France, Germany, the Belgian coast.. everywhere but in Brussels. In this town there is only cold, lots and lots of freezing cold everything. It is at least -8000 degrees Celsius. Don't try to correct me on that; it's true!

Fair Trade ad

2010-11-24T18:29:00.000+01:00

Sometimes there are simple commercials I simply love. This is one of them for Sustainable Trade (Max Havelaar, Fairtrade, Ecocert)

Thanks Indiana

2010-11-22T16:59:00.000+01:00

Day 1

2010-11-21T22:38:00.001+01:00

Day one of being a woman.

Perfection..

2010-11-19T16:21:00.000+01:00

As it turns out I am a perfect person. My imperfections make me the perfect version of my imperfect self. Who cares that I still have to do the dishes, study, clean my apartment, get groceries or do laundry? They are all little bits of me.. and I am perfect. At least, that's what I keep telling myself. How else could I understand having a guy around me that thinks I am?

I am not a person that is used to people calling me 'beautiful' or 'sweet'. I am not the kind of girl that kisses in public and holds hands, but yet I do it. Not because I have to, but because it feels incredibly good. However I cannot help but think there is a hidden agenda of some kind (yes.. too much politics can do that to a person). The only thing that keeps me from running is knowing he feels the same way. Two little chickens who dared to leap.

Brothers :P

2010-11-17T18:23:00.000+01:00

BB zegt:
'liefste lieke,'
BB zegt:
'de verlichting van het ledscherm van deze computer valt in het niet bij het hemelse licht in je ogen.'

I truly <3 my big brother!

Full speed ahead

2010-11-09T17:45:00.001+01:00

Things are going fast.. really fast.

I spent the whole of last week in the senate. I can´t even remember ever being so satisfied and so tired! But it was clearly worth it. My overall knowledge of the Belgian state, Beglian law and French has at least quadrupled. And I think I finally coprehend the problems that torment the nations people and government on a dayly base. Just to be clear; most belgians don´t understand a thing that is happening in their government or in their country for that matter. But I do now! :-)

After this really tiresome week (up and including Saturday), my parents dropped by on their way back from France on Sunday loading me with gifts and groceries. That same Sunday TDS came over too (he even met my parents briefly albeit under a different title).

All in all I´m working on my very last engergy reserves, but I´m happy and I´m going to make it. I always do.

JPJ - The time has come!

2010-11-02T11:03:00.000+01:00

I'll be gone for the week - parliament awaits!
Whish me luck guys!

Just me freaking out

2010-11-01T14:51:00.003+01:00

Cute guy.
Date yesterday..
Again next week...
Likes me....

I'm clearly freaking out!

Rutte I - Dutch Ministers

2010-10-26T11:08:00.011+02:00

Minister-president (MP), minister van Algemene Zaken (AZ)
Mark Rutte (1967) VVD

Minister van Binnenlandse Zaken en Koninkrijksrelaties (BZK)
Piet Hein Donner (1948) CDA

Minister van Buitenlandse Zaken (BuZa)
Uri Rosenthal (1945) VVD

Minister van Defensie (Def.)
Hans Hillen (1947) CDA

Minister van Economische Zaken, Landbouw en Innovatie (EL en I)
Maxime Verhagen (1956) CDA Tevens vicepremier

Minister van Financiën (Fin.)
Jan Kees de Jager (1969) CDA

Minister voor Immigratie en Asiel (I en A)
Gerd Leers (1951) CDA Minister zonder portefeuille

Minister van Infrastructuur en Milieu (I en M)
Melanie Schultz van Haegen (1970) VVD

Minister van Onderwijs, Cultuur en Wetenschap (OCW)
Marja van Bijsterveldt (1961) CDA

Minister van Sociale Zaken en Werkgelegenheid (SZW)
Henk Kamp (1952) VVD

Minister van Veiligheid en Justitie (V en J)
Ivo Opstelten (1944) VVD

Minister van Volksgezondheid, Welzijn en Sport (VWS)
Edith Schippers (1964) VVD

2010-10-25T21:13:00.002+02:00

All thanks to the keep calm-o-matic!

There is something so therapeutic and calming about making and drinking tea. Especially if you have the right tea, the right cup and saucer, honey and spoon. Add some really good friends & a piece of pie and you have the most perfect afternoon! <3

Not the wisest of decisions

2010-10-24T11:57:00.001+02:00

Last weekend I met this guy and he proposed to write 50.000 words in just one month. And I - the very stupid girl - accepted the challenge. In short this means I have to write a vast amount of fiction in the last three weeks of November (the first week I'll be attending the Youth Parliament sessions). A true challenge!

As a good politician I quickly enlisted someone else as a writing buddy and I'm still working on a couple of my house mates. If we all work together and keep each other motivated we should be able to pull it off. 50.000 Words each.

If I got you interested just have a quick peek on the following website: NaNoWriMo and enlist! And if you do, tag me as your writing buddy, I'm working under the alias Liekele. See you soon fellow writers!

Sorry couldn't not post it

2010-10-22T17:52:00.000+02:00

Oh Belgium!

2010-10-20T14:41:00.000+02:00

Today's weather:

- Freezing cold (early morning)

- Heavy rain (morning)

- Sunshine and a rise of temperature (around midday)

- Hail (afternoon)

- ? (evening)

Al I'm missing is snow and/or a hurricane! Why can't Brussels just decide on a type of weather and stick to it for the day. I'm getting pretty fed up with putting on jackets, sweaters, flip-flops, wellingtons and umbrellas. Decide for heavens sake!

Stylistic devices

2010-10-20T13:55:00.027+02:00

Clearing out my PC folders I found this back. The stylistic devices we used to write our comparative commentaries with (as dictated by mrs. Frew). Never know when they'll come in handy!

Use these words to link your paragraph

as/well as
additionally
what is more
likewise
in the same way
besides
moreover
also
furthermore
along with
similarly
not only... but also

Not to use at all:

like
very
normal
really
nice
because (ban be an exception)

Linking words:

despite
regardless
in spite of
nevertheless

Concluding words:

finally
eventually
so
ultimately
as a result
consequently
hence
therefor
at lenth
at lest
by the end

Starting words time/place:

whenever
after
even as
firstly/at first
secondly -> thirdly
now and then
at this point
from time to time
considering
accordingly
presently
meanwhile
while/whilst

Oopsy

2010-10-13T16:39:00.000+02:00

It's almost halfway though October and I still haven't found any time to blog.. Never knew my life as a professional note taker could be so full and exhausting. But don't blame me, between the uni, aiesec, boxing and my birthday I haven't had any time to breathe.

However I have managed to fill in an application form and motivational letter for VUBMUN (yet another time consuming activity) and for Jeugd Parlement Jeunesse (JPJ). I managed to get into the latter! The JPJ initiative aims to create a youth parliament in order to close the gap between the different language and cultural borders in Belgium. As a Dutch girl I'm incredibly proud to have been selected!

Anyway, this weekend I have a ball in Gent and Sunday I have to attend an information session for JPJ, on top of my aiesec meetings, VUBMUN applications, boxing and a test next week on the moral constraints on war. Goody :D

Belgisch politiek woordenboek: Wetstratees

2010-10-05T10:19:00.002+02:00

Door Dirk Vandenberghe en Jeroen van der Kris

Brussel/Rotterdam. Als het crisis is in de Belgische politiek, schakelen Belgen over op Wetstratees. Een klein verklarend woordenboek. Nu met vernieuwde en helemaal nieuwe dilemma's, aangeduid met een *.

Het is crisis in de Belgische politiek. Alweer. En opnieuw gaat het over het omstreden kiesdistrict Brussel-Halle-Vilvoorde, kortweg 'BHV'. Veel Belgen zeggen dat ze het niet meer kunnen volgen. Meestal doen ze dat dan toch, waarna ze opmerken dat buitenstaanders het natuurlijk écht niet meer kunnen volgen. BHV is een ingewikkelde puzzel die illustratief is voor de Belgische politiek. Een klein verklarend woordenboek.

Alles: In de Belgische politiek wordt alles altijd aan alles gekoppeld. Dat maakt het land een ingewikkelde kluwen van gemeenschappen en gewesten met maar liefst negen parlementen en acht regeringen. Veelgehoorde uitspraak: er is over niets een akkoord, tenzij er een akkoord is over alles. Zie ook: Staatshervorming.

Aanhechting: Willen de Franstaligen graag. Ze hebben het dan over de randgemeenten van Brussel. De hoofdstad is officieel tweetalig, maar in de praktijk vooral Franstalig. In de randgemeenten is Nederlands de officiële taal. Vlamingen zijn bang dat ook daar het Frans de overhand krijgt wanneer de gemeenten aan Brussel worden gehecht. Voor hen is het dan ook eerder een annexatie. Zie ook: Randgemeenten; Verfransing.

Alarmbelprocedure: Mogelijkheid voor een taalgroep om de procedure voor het stemmen van een nieuwe wet te stoppen als een andere taalgroep die wil doordrukken. Het wetsvoorstel gaat dan naar de ministerraad, die eventueel een vernieuwd wetsontwerp kan voorstellen. De alarmbelprocedure duurt dertig dagen.

BHV: Brussel-Halle-Vilvoorde. Kiesdistrict in de Vlaamse rand rond Brussel waar Franstaligen ook voor Franstaligen kunnen stemmen. Zorgt al jaren voor crisis na crisis. BHV staat symbool voor het vaak moeizame samenleven van Vlamingen en Walen in hetzelfde land. Lees ook: Vier vragen en antwoorden over BHV.

* Bemiddelingsopdracht: Steeds vaker toegepast vertragingsmiddel om moeizame of helemaal vastgelopen onderhandelingen nieuw leven in te blazen. Na het mislukken van regeringsonderhandelingen in september 2010 werden de voorzitters van Kamer en Senaat, respectievelijk van SP en N-VA, belast met een bemiddelingsopdracht. Zij moeten bekijken of de twee grootste partijen snel weer rond de tafel kunnen gaan zitten. Zie ook: Olijk duo, N-VA, PS

* C'est reporté: Frans voor "het is uitgesteld". Zou een anoniem gebleven lid van Waalse onderhandelaars hebben gezegd over de hervorming van de financieringswet, waardoor de Vlamingen zich belazerd voelden. Het anonieme zinnetje betekende het begin van het einde van onderhandelingen over een nieuwe regering. Zie ook: Financieringswet.

* Chipoteren: Frans werkwoord, eigenlijke betekenis: het laken subtiel naar zijn kant trekken. In de politiek een onderhandelingstechniek waarbij de beloftes en/of eisen telkens opnieuw een klein beetje worden aangepast. Als over iemand wordt gezegd dat hij of zij aan het chipoteren is, is dat niet echt als een compliment bedoeld.

Compromis: Zijn Belgen goed in, zeggen ze zelf. En is één van de weinige dingen waarop ze trots zijn. Het land valt heus niet uit elkaar, zoals buitenlanders denken, we vinden wel weer een compromis, zeggen ze dan. Een goed compromis is zo ingewikkeld dat zowel Vlamingen als Franstaligen tegen hun kiezers kunnen zeggen dat ze hebben gewonnen.

Communautair: De grootste politieke problemen in België zijn communautair. Dat wil zeggen dat Vlamingen en Franstaligen er verschillend over denken. Ook wanneer je dat niet zou verwachten, blijken problemen vaak 'een communautair kantje' te hebben. Gezondheidszorg, belastingen, defensie: je vindt op alle beleidsterreinen communautaire problemen.

Compensatie: Wil de ene partij als de andere partij iets krijgt. Gebeurt vaak in de vorm van geld. Daarom zijn de politieke problemen de laatste jaren in België ook zo groot: het geld begint op de raken. In het verleden bestonden compromissen er vaak uit dat de Vlamingen meer bevoegdheden kregen en de Franstaligen meer geld. Zie ook: Wafelijzerpolitiek.

Corridor: Idee van Franstaligen, zou Brussel moeten verbinden met Wallonië. Voorkomt 'omsingeling' van de hoofdstad, die nu wordt omringd door Vlaamse gemeenten. Zie ook: Quarantaine.

Dansaert-Vlaming: In Brussel wonende Vlaming, genoemd naar de trendy Dansaertstraat/Rue Dansaert, het culturele hart van de Vlaamse gemeenschap in Brussel. Scheldwoord en geuzennaam tegelijk. Vlamingen uit de provincie geven vaak af op de Dansaert-Vlaming, omdat ze graag Vlaamse cultuursubsidies ontvangen waarmee ze samen met Franstaligen leuke dingen doen.

Deadline: De Belgische politiek strompelt van deadline naar deadline. Niet zelden heeft die deadline betrekking op hetzelfde dossier. Het dossier BHV zou recentelijk eerst worden opgelost voor de paasvakantie, vervolgens aan het eind van de paasvakantie en nu op donderdagmiddag 22 april. Open VLD, de Vlaamse liberalen, sluit niet uit dat de regering valt indien er geen akkoord is. Zie ook: Grondwettelijk Hof.

* Discretie: Nieuw toverwoord om (eventueel) goed verloop van onderhandelingen te duiden, nadat de regeringsformatie van 2007 bleef aanslepen door allerlei lekken naar de pers. In 2010 heerste er in het begin meer discretie en dus meer vertrouwen, dat langzaam wegebde. Of het vertrouwen slonk omdat onderhandelaars indiscreet werden of omgekeerd is hoogst onduidelijk.

* Du jamais vu: Frans voor "nooit eerder gezien" of ook wel "nooit eerder vertoond". Vaak gebruikte kreet bij conflicten. Handelingen, uitspraken of eisen zijn dan heel vaak "du jamais vu", om te onderstrepen dat Vlamingen of Franstaligen nu een grens hebben overschreden.

Duitstaligen: Zou je bijna vergeten, maar zijn er ook in België. Er zijn zo'n 73.000 Duitstalige Belgen, vooral in gemeenten aan de oostgrens van Wallonië die de oostkantons vormen. Willen graag dat België blijft bestaan, want met verschuivende grenzen hebben ze in de geschiedenis alleen maar slechte ervaringen opgedaan. Worden daarom ook wel de laatste echte Belgen genoemd.

Ecolo: Franstalige groene partij. Neemt in communautaire dossiers vaak een standpunt in dat afwijkt van dat van andere Franstalige partijen. Meent als enige dat een splitsing van BHV onvermijdelijk is, maar eist wel compensaties voor Franstaligen.

EU-voorzitterschap: België is in de tweede helft van 2010 roulerend voorzitter van de Europese Unie. Politici willen een nieuwe regeringscrisis net voor of tijdens het voorzitterschap vermijden. Dat is niet gelukt. Sommige politici opperden al dat de regeringsvorming tot kerstmis 2010 kan duren. Zie ook: Deadline.

Europa: Houden Belgen hartstochtelijk van, als enigen in Europa. Heeft niet alleen te maken met de werkgelegenheid waar de EU in Brussel voor zorgt. Belgische politici van alle partijen hebben er geen moeite mee Europa meer macht te geven. Dan hebben ze zelf misschien minder problemen op te lossen. Sommige Vlaams-nationalisten hopen zelfs dat Europa de Belgische staat helemaal overbodig maakt.

Faciliteitengemeenten: Gemeenten in het Nederlandstalig gebied waar Franstaligen in hun eigen taal terechtkunnen voor administratieve zaken. Of omgekeerd. Veel Vlamingen wensen een afschaffing van de faciliteiten omdat ze de verfransing van de Vlaamse Rand rond Brussel in de hand zouden werken. Zie ook: Verfransing.

FDF: Fédéralistes Democrates Francophones. Partij van Franstalige Brusselaars die in communautaire dossiers de meest radicale standpunten verdedigt. Voorzitter Olivier Maingain refereerde onlangs aan de Duitse bezetting om het beleid van de Vlaamse regering in de rand rond Brussel te hekelen. Wordt door sommige Vlamingen wel eens Waals Belang genoemd, naar analogie met het Vlaams Belang. Zie ook: MR.

* Financieringswet: De ruggegraat van België, regelt de overheveling van financiële middelen van het Belgische niveau naar de deelstaten. Hangt volgens specialisten met plakband aan elkaar en is dus dringend aan herziening toe. Dat eisen de Vlamingen ook, maar Franstaligen staan daar argwanend tegenover omdat ze vrezen dat het Wallonië en Brussel zal verarmen. De huidige Belgische staatskas is erg leeg en er moet 25 miljard euro worden bespaard. Ook omdat de huidige financieringswet duur is dringen de Vlamingen aan op een hervorming. Zie ook: Responsabilisering.

* Formatiewedstrijd: Vroeger was Nederland-België een duel tussen twee nationale voetbalploegen. Tegenwoordig is het een formatiewedstrijd: wie heeft het eerste een regering? Er zaten slechts drie dagen tussen de verkiezingen in Nederland en België. Het Europees record formeren staat op Nederland, met 208 dagen in 1977 voor het kabinet Van Agt I. In België duurde het in 2007 194 dagen om een interim-regering te vormen. "Maar toen hebben we vals gespeeld om dat Nederlandse record niet te breken", zei de Gentse politicoloog Carl Devos onlangs in NRC Handelsblad. In 2007 vormde Guy Verhofstadt een tijdelijke regering met als belangrijkste doelstelling: een echte regering vormen. Maar de 'echte' regering van Yves Leterme kwam in de jaren daarna ook niet echt aan regeren toe. Dat het nu in Nederland ook zo moeizaam gaat, is aanleiding voor enige opluchting bij Vlamingen. En voor soms hilarische krantenkoppen, zoals onlangs in de Vlaamse krant De Standaard: 'CDA'ers zijn ook maar tsjeven'. Zie ook: Tsjeven.

Gordel: Jaarlijkse fietstocht, georganiseerd door Vlamingen, rond Brussel. Een vreedzaam en volgens sommige deelnemers vooral recreatief evenement. Franstaligen zien dat anders. Gezien de hoeveelheid Vlaamse leeuwenvlaggen die er op die dag te zien zijn, heeft het evenement ook wel iets van een omsingeling. Franstaligen leggen elk jaar punaises op de weg.

Grondwettelijk Hof: Oordeelde dat het huidige statuut van het kiesdistrict BHV indruist tegen de grondwet, omdat het Franstaligen voordelen geeft die Vlamingen in Wallonië niet hebben. Indien er geen oplossing komt, zijn de volgende federale verkiezingen ongrondwettelijk. Die verkiezingen staan gepland voor juni 2011. Zie ook: Deadline.

Gerechtelijk arrondissement: Er is niet alleen een kiesdistrict BHV, maar ook een gerechtelijk arrondissement met die naam. Daardoor kunnen Franstaligen in de Vlaamse gemeenten rond Brussel naar een Franstalige rechter stappen. Werkt volgens Vlaamse politici 'verfransing' in de hand. Zie ook: Verfransing.

Hoofdstedelijk Gewest: Valt samen met de hoofdstad Brussel. Enige tweetalige gewest in België, waar een meerderheid van Franstaligen samenleeft met een minderheid aan Vlamingen. Zie ook: Staatshervorming.

Imbuvable: Frans, letterlijk 'niet te drinken', figuurlijk 'niet door te slikken', door Vlamingen doorgaans vertaald als 'onaanvaardbaar'. Woord dat vaak wordt gebruikt door FDF-voorzitter Olivier Maingain om Vlaamse voorstellen af te wijzen. Zie ook: FDF.

IJzerbedevaart: Jaarlijkse manifestatie van Vlaams-nationalisten waar de slachtoffers van de Eerste Wereldoorlog worden herdacht en Vlaamse eisen worden verwoord. Bekendste eis: Waalse vrienden, laten we scheiden.

Inschrijvingsrecht: Mogelijke oplossing voor BHV. Franstaligen die in de rand rond Brussel wonen zouden zich toch kunnen inschrijven in Brussel om zo op Franstalige politici te kunnen stemmen. Zie ook: compromis.

Inspectie: Op verzoek van Waalse politici kwam al herhaaldelijk een inspectieteam van de Raad van Europa de toestand beoordelen. Telkens werden de Belgische politici gemaand het probleem snel op te lossen. De Raad van Europa vindt het ook onbegrijpelijk dat Franstaligen in gemeenten uit de Vlaamse Rand rond Brussel, waar ze soms in de meerderheid zijn, niet altijd en overal hun taal kunnen gebruiken.

Jean-Luc Dehaene: Vlaams christen-democraat, voormalig premier. Maakte begin jaren negentig van België een federale staat door een nieuwe staatshervorming. Meester in het compromis. Zie ook: Loodgieter.

Joëlle Milquet: Voorzitter van cdH, de Waalse christen-democraten. Neemt steevast een harde positie in in communautaire dossiers. Kreeg daarom van Vlaamse politici en commentatoren de bijnaam 'Madame Non', Mevrouw Neen. De in Vlaanderen populaire cabaretier Geert Hoste maakte er voor zijn eindejaarsconference een liedje over.

José Happart: Franstalige voormalige burgemeester van Voeren, een Limburgse gemeente met faciliteiten voor Franstaligen. Zorgde voor de val van een regering in de jaren tachtig omdat hij als burgemeester weigerde Nederlands te spreken in de gemeenteraad. Zie ook: Taalgrens.

Kaakslag: Vaak gebruikt woord door Vlaams-nationalisten bij Vlaamse toegevingen aan Franstaligen. Halverwege de jaren negentig introduceerde Yves Desmet, hoofdredacteur van de progressieve krant De Morgen , de term 'kaakslagnationalisme'. Franstaligen gebruiken de kaakslag ook, alleen noemen ze hem dan gifle.

La Libre Belgique: Franstalige krant uit Brussel met een katholieke achtergrond die vaak wordt gezien als de verdediger van het unitaire België. Berucht om de driemaandelijkse politieke peiling, die vaak afwijkt van andere peilingen.

Loodgieter: Bijnaam van oud-premier Jean-Luc Dehaene wegens zijn vermogen om ingewikkelde compromissen te smeden. Werd daarom eind 2009 als 'koninklijk opdrachthouder' aangesteld om eindelijk een oplossing te vinden voor de kwestie BHV. Noemde dat zelf een mission impossible. Zie ook: Jean-Luc Dehaene.

MR: Mouvement Réformateur, de Waalse liberalen van vicepremier Didier Reynders. Is zich onder druk van de PS steeds harder gaan opstellen in communautaire dossiers. Heeft sinds 2002 een samenwerkingsverband met de FDF, de meest radicale Franstalige partij. Zie ook: FDF.

* N-VA: Nieuw-Vlaamse Alliantie, een Vlaams-nationalistische partij zonder het xenofobe karakter van het Vlaams Belang. Voorzitter Bart De Wever is een van de populairste politici in Vlaanderen, onder meer door het etaleren van zijn droge humor in het populaire tv-programma De Slimste Mens ter Wereld. Bij de verkiezingen van 13 juni werd de N-VA de grootste partij van Vlaanderen en de grootste in het Belgische parlement, met 27 zetels.

* Olijk duo: Bijnaam voor Danny Pieters (N-VA) en André Flahaut (PS), respectievelijk voorzitter van Senaat en Kamer. Zij kregen in september 2010 de opdracht om te bemiddelen tussen hun partijen nadat de gesprekken over een coalitievorming mislukten. Zie ook: Bemiddelingsopdracht.

Onverwijld: Volgens het Vlaamse regeerakkoord van 2004 moest BHV 'onverwijld' worden gesplitst. Dat is niet de bevoegdheid van de Vlaamse regering, maar het werd gezien als frontvorming van de Vlaamse partijen en een aansporing voor de federale regering. Vlaamse partijen worden er door critici vaak aan herinnerd dat 'onverwijld' wel erg lang duurt.

* Plan B: Als alternatief voor België, mochten onderhandelingen definitief mislukken. Werd onlangs mee gedreigd door de Waalse socialisten, maar er is bijna geen Vlaming te vinden die dit dreigement serieus neemt. Als Walen dreigen met de splitsing van België, zien Vlamingen dat doorgaans als onderhandelingstactiek.

* Preformateur: Nieuwe politieke functie, die de echte formatie moet voorbereiden. In de zomer van 2010 werd de Waalse socialist Elio Di Rupo aangesteld als preformateur, om een regering met drie Franstalige en vier Vlaamse partijen voor te bereiden. Bij een akkoord zou daarna naar verwachting een Vlaming formateur worden, maar zo ver kwam het voorlopig niet.

PS: Parti Socialiste, de Waalse sociaal-democraten. Ondanks (financiële) schandalen nog steeds de grootste partij van Wallonië. Komt volgens critici door cliëntelisme, het binden van de kiezers aan de partij door het verlenen van allerlei gunsten. Vlamingen spreken soms geringschattend over 'de PS-staat' als het over Wallonië gaat. Was lange tijd de belangrijkste vertolker van het Waalse nationalisme, dat nu ook gemeengoed is geworden bij christen-democraten en liberalen.

Quarantaine: Vlamingen willen Brussel in quarantaine plaatsen, menen de Franstaligen: de hoofdstad omringen door louter Nederlandstalige gemeenten, een soort taalkundige quarantaine. Om dat te voorkomen, hebben Franstaligen wel eens geopperd dat er een corridor moet komen tussen Wallonië en Brussel. Zie ook: Corridor.

Randgemeenten: Vlaamse gemeenten rond Brussel, ook wel Vlaamse Rand genoemd, waar veel Franstaligen wonen. Populair omdat het er groener en veiliger is dan in de hoofdstad. Daarom zijn er ook veel Franstalige Brusselaars komen wonen. Zie ook: Verfransing.

* Rattachisme: Kleine beweging in Wallonië die ijvert voor de aansluiting bij Frankrijk. Na de dreigende waarschuwing van Waalse socialisten dat Franstaligen zich moeten voorbereiden op een scheiding van België, is het Rattachisme plots weer een klein beetje en vogue. Zie ook: Plan B

Rondzendbrief-Peeters: Bron van grote ergernis bij Franstaligen. In deze brief, die Vlaams minister voor Binnenlandse Aangelegenheden Leo Peeters in 1997 schreef, is vastgelegd hoe de taalwetgeving in de faciliteitengemeenten moet worden geïnterpreteerd: zeer strikt. Franstaligen kunnen documenten van de gemeenten in het Frans krijgen, maar ze moeten daar telkens opnieuw om vragen. Sommige burgemeesters houden zich er niet aan, bijvoorbeeld door oproepbrieven voor verkiezingen aan Franstaligen meteen in het Frans te versturen.

* Responsabilisering: Principe waarbij de deelstaten verantwoordelijk worden voor de eigen middelen, gekoppeld aan de financieringswet. Zo zouden deelstaten ook eigen belastingen kunnen heffen en afgerekend kunnen worden op hun financiële beleid. Ook hier geldt: eis van de Vlamingen waar Franstaligen erg weigerachtig tegenover staan. Zie ook: Financieringswet.

RTBF: Franstalige publieke omroep, veroorzaakte eind 2006 opschudding met het fictieve journaal Bye bye Belgium, waarin werd gesteld dat Vlaanderen de onafhankelijkheid had uitgeroepen. Franstalige kijkers liepen in de val en belden massaal naar de omroep. Politici aan beide zijden van de taalgrens reageerden verontwaardigd op de uitzending. Vooral ook omdat toen werd geprobeerd een nieuw communautair akkoord te vormen. Bekijk een deel van de (Nederlands ondertitelde) uitzending hier.

Le Soir: Franstalige kwaliteitskrant, ooit de spreekbuis van het FDF maar nu gematigder. Besloot na de RTBF-uitzending van Bye bye Belgium samen te werken met de Vlaamse tegenhanger De Standaard.

* De Standaard:Vlaamse kwaliteitskrant, ooit de spreekbuis van het katholieke Vlaanderen en het gematigde deel van de Vlaamse Beweging. Voormalig hoofdredacteur Peter Vandermeersch, nu hoofdredacteur van NRC Handelsblad, is een populaire analyticus op de Vlaamse tv. Hij schreef na de RTBF-uitzending Bye bye Belgium het commentaar 'Nous en avons marre' (we hebben er genoeg van) en besloot daarna om rond communautaire thema's samen te werken met Le Soir.

Staatshervorming: Verzamelnaam voor een opeenvolging van wijzigingen in de grondwet die erop neerkwamen dat de deelstaten steeds meer bevoegdheden kregen, eerst op het gebied van cultuur en onderwijs en later ook economie. Bepaalt de inrichting van België in drie gemeenschappen (Nederlandstalig, Franstalig, Duitstalig) en drie gewesten: het Vlaams Gewest, het Waals Gewest en het Brussels Hoofdstedelijk Gewest. Gemeenschappen zijn verantwoordelijk voor persoonsgebonden zaken (zoals onderwijs), gewesten voor gebiedsgebonden zaken (bv. wegen).

Taalgrens: De grens tussen Wallonië en Vlaanderen, nauwkeurig vastgelegd bij de eerste staatshervorming in 1962. Daarvoor werd om de tien jaar na een 'talentelling' bepaald welke taal in de gemeente werd gesproken. Sommige gemeenten langs de grens hebben faciliteiten voor de minderheid die de andere taal spreekt. Conflicten rond het vastleggen van de taalgrens staan bekend als de Taalstrijd. Enig onopgeloste probleem: BHV. Zie ook: faciliteiten, BHV.

Transfers: Betalen de rijke Vlamingen aan de arme Walen. Bijvoorbeeld doordat ze rijker zijn en meer belasting betalen. Maar Vlaams-nationalisten zien overal transfers. Vlaanderen heeft bijvoorbeeld meer flitspalen dan Wallonië, wat de staatskas meer geld oplevert. Dat zijn ook transfers, zeggen ze. Over de hoogte van de transfers zijn veel boeken geschreven. Sommigen wijzen er op dat de rollen ooit omgekeerd waren, omdat de Walen tot de Tweede Wereldoorlog rijker waren dan de Vlamingen. Anderen beweren dat de Vlamingen altijd hebben moeten betalen.

* Tsjeven: Scheldnaam, maar tegelijk ook geuzennaam voor Vlaamse politici van katholieke huize. Een vaak gehoord uitdrukking: ,,Dat is een tsjevenstreek." Tsjeven worden geacht sluw, strategisch slim en bedreven in het spelen van politieke spelletjes te zijn. CDA-onderhandelaar Maxime Verhagen zou in België zonder twijfel worden gezien als een rasechte tsjeef. Zie ook: Formatiestrijd

UF: Union des Francophones, een Franstalige eenheidslijst die in het kiesdistrict Brussel-Halle-Vilvoorde altijd meedoet aan de Vlaamse verkiezingen en steeds 1 zetel haalt. Christian van Eyken zetelt sinds 1995 in het Vlaams parlement. Kreeg net voor de verkiezingen van De Standaard een 2 voor zijn minimale werk in het parlement. Wordt wel geprezen om zijn humor. "Ik kan niet zeggen dat ik weeg op het beleid. Integendeel", zegt hij zelf over zijn mandaat.

Vijf minuten politieke moed: Was volgens premier Yves Leterme het enige wat er nodig was om het kiesdistrict Brussel-Halle-Vilvoorde te splitsen. Uitspraak waar hij nog vaak aan is herinnerd en waarvan hij inmiddels veel spijt moet hebben. Leterme deed zijn uitspraak in 2004.

Verfransing: Voltrekt zich in Vlaamse randgemeenten van Brussel, doordat er steeds meer Franstaligen komen wonen. Voor Vlaamse politici heeft de taalgrens het karakter van een staatsgrens: wie op Vlaamse grond woont moet Nederlands spreken. Maar Franstaligen zien het traditioneel als een persoonlijk recht om Frans te mogen spreken, liefst in heel België.

* Vis: Belgen eten niet alleen graag goed, ze praten er ook vaak over, zelfs als het over politiek gaat. Politici zijn dol op beeldspraken als 'de vis moet worden verdronken' (een lastige maatregel moet worden gecombineerd met zo veel andere maatregelen dat niet meer opvalt hoe lastig hij is). Vooral de beeldspraken van Bart De Wever zijn succesvol. Er wordt vaak verwezen naar zijn 'vette vis' (een grote staatshervorming). Als Franstaligen moeite hebben om die te slikken, dan wil hij ze best "een lepeltje suiker" geven. Als De Wever te weinig krijgt, dan noemt hij dat 'borrelnootjes'. Zie ook: N-VA.

Waarnemend: Dat zijn de Franstalige burgemeesters van de drie faciliteitengemeenten Kraainem, Linkebeek en Wezembeek-Oppem bij Brussel. De gemeenteraad draagt hen steeds voor. Maar telkens weigert de verantwoordelijke Vlaamse minister hen te benoemen, omdat ze taalwetten niet hebben gerespecteerd. Zo gaat het nu al sinds de laatste gemeenteraadsverkiezingen in 2006. De gemeenten hebben geen andere burgemeester, alleen deze waarnemende.

Wafelijzerpolitiek: Principe waarbij de 'andere' gemeenschap iets krijgt ter compensatie als de 'ene' gemeenschap een eis binnenhaalt. Als er bijvoorbeeld Waalse snelwegen moeten worden hersteld, gaat er in Vlaanderen geld naar de spoorwegen. Of omgekeerd. Is door commentatoren bedacht en niet echt als compliment bedoeld. Zie ook: Alles; Compromis.

'Wat we zelf doen, doen we beter'. Denken veel Vlaamse politici. Ze hebben niks tegen Franstaligen, echt niet, zeggen ze dan. En ze willen België ook niet laten barsten. Maar Vlamingen zijn nu eenmaal anders dan Walen. En dan wijzen ze naar Nederland, Duitsland en Scandinavische landen, waar de overheid kleiner en efficiënter is. Willen de Walen graag naar de specialist? Prima. Maar Vlamingen gaan misschien liever eerst naar de huisarts. Als daarmee geld wordt bespaard, dan moet dat natuurlijk ten goede komen aan de eigen regio. De uitspraak is afkomstig van Gaston Geens, die in 1981 de eerste 'minister-president' van Vlaanderen werd. Hij zei eigenlijk: ,,Wij zullen moeten bewijzen dat wij wat we zelf doen, beter doen."

Wetstratees: Verzamelnaam voor het politieke Belgische jargon. Vernoemd naar de Wetstraat, waar zowel het federale parlement als de ambtswoning van de eerste minister zijn gehuisvest. Zie ook: Zestien .

Xenofobie: Worden Vlamingen van beschuldigd, in de eerste plaats natuurlijk door Franstaligen. Die wijzen graag op observaties van buitenstaanders, die de Vlaamse gevoeligheid voor taal ook niet altijd begrijpen. Beroemd is bijvoorbeeld de omschrijving van een journalist van The New York Times , die de politieke toestand in Vlaanderen omschreef als 'a non-violent form of fascism'.

* Yves Leterme: De grote winnaar van de voorlaatste parlementsverkiezingen, op 10 juni 2007, waarna België in de grootste politieke crisis van zijn bestaan belandde. Een crisis die eigenlijk tot vandaag duurt. De Vlaamse christen-democraat lijkt door zijn familiegeschiedenis bij uitstek geschikt als premier van België: zijn vader is een Waal en zelf is hij perfect tweetalig. Maar Franstaligen wantrouwen hem sinds hij zei premier te willen worden 'voor Vlaanderen'. Zijn humor wordt niet altijd begrepen, bijvoorbeeld toen hij zei dat Franstaligen misschien ,,intellectueel niet in staat zijn'' om Nederlands te leren. Moest al een keer aftreden als premier, maar mocht het eind vorig jaar opniew proberen toen Herman Van Rompuy 'EU-president' werd.

Zestien: Beter bekend als 'de zestien', wat staat voor Wetstraat 16, de ambtswoning van de premier. Als het crisis is in de zestien, dan is heel het land in crisis. In de Wetstraat en in de kranten worden dan veel woorden uit dit woordenboek gebruikt. Dat heet dan Wetstratees.

Source: http://www.nrc.nl/buitenland/article2529353.ece/Belgisch_politiek_woordenboek_Wetstratees

Little rant

2010-09-30T21:40:00.002+02:00

What is it with people getting married as such young age? Twenty-freaking-one and they're already committing for life! Never mind crushing my dreams and fantasies for that matter! Oh, sorry I forgot the introduction; rumour has it The Gladiator (a.k.a. McMuscle) is getting married!

It's probably me. In little less than two weeks I will reach the epic age of 20 and it freaks me out. Combine that my guy-criteria* and that I haven't been able to attend to my function as a professional note-taker (a.k.a. class) and you get little frustrated me.

Oh, and in a state of euphoria I texted The Greek again. I'm fed up! He just lost the chance of his life! That idiot is so disrespectful that he almost never texts back. I'm not taking it. Fuck him! And that's the last thing you will ever hear from him on this blog ever again! I promise.

* Three criteria that make me look like one of those cartoon bears that are nearly starving to death - and suddenly that divine table with all the yummy foods appears - that look.

1) tall

2) shoulders fit for a God (or half-God)

2b) brains/passion

3) wrong choice or unreachable

Short update

2010-09-22T10:33:00.000+02:00

Back in Belgium after two weeks at the office (NL). Working 8h30 to 17h00 is not my favourite way to spend my day, but it pays well and the people are great. The downside is that once I got home I had just enough energy to eat, curl up with a book and fall asleep (somewhere around 21h30). I don't think boring office work is suited for me just yet. After the two weeks I had a great weekend with one of my best friends in Nijmegen. We went to a Folkball, my second yet and I still love it!

Sunday evening I was back in Brussels, brought my application to the uni, had lunch with Lies and had my first boxing training of the season. Tuesday I went to the hospital to have x-rays taken of my elbow and after that my first dancing lesson!!

Appointment No.2 made

2010-09-06T08:33:00.000+02:00

So I went to see the VUB doctor on Friday. She poked, prodded, turned, twisted and eventually came to the conclusion she wanted an x-ray. Just for sure. The problem may lie in the close-to-the-surface-nerve that goes through my elbow. Better known to most (and me) as the 'funny-bone', the one that shocks you when you hit yet another tabletop. Having come to that conclusion she sent me home with lots of paperwork and a couple of 'kleefzegels' lighter.

By the time I got home on Friday the radiology dept. of the University Hospital had already closed, not to open to Monday morning 8AM (22 minutes ago). So after a short night sleep (by 4AM I had nearly convinced myself my arm would be amputated) I got up the nerve and called them. The appointment is set the 21st at 10h15.

I'm not really fond of hospitals. I've spent too much time in them over the last couple of years. I can assure you though, that coffee tastes best at hospitals. Somehow the sterile environment enhances the taste of crappy coffee into something heavenly.

Appointment made

2010-09-03T11:26:00.001+02:00

Finally, I called my doctor to make that appointment I've been dreading for weeks now. About a month ago I was hit by a car (sore ribs that have healed perfectly and a thick red and blue elbow). My elbow still hurts on some movements. So when mum found out (from 1000km away) she ordered me to see a doctor. What I will be doing this afternoon. Wish me luck.

Last one

2010-08-28T21:38:00.001+02:00

That was my very last exam for this calendar year!!! Whoohooo!!!

Luckily I only had two exams to retake, psychology (aaaarrg) and philosophy.

Philosophy was an oral exam, so once she found out I was a Political science student she only asked me about political philosophy: Plato's Republic, Hobbes, Machiavelli and Nietzsche. She was impressed, not knowing I had just taken a course on the political theories of Hobbes, Rousseau, Montesquieu, Hegel and Marx. Anyway I rocked the exam and ended with a 15/20!

Psychology was a awful as ever. I only need a 8 or 9/20 to pass it (deliberation at the end of the year). Fingers crossed now that I'll make it.

------------------------->

Since I've completed this uni year I have to figure out what to do the next. This is what I have so far:

Semester 1

- Staatsrecht (state law)

- Onderzoeksmethoden (methods in research)

- Sociale geografie (social geography)

- Politieke structuren van de ontwikkelingslanden (political structures of developing countries)

- Normative Political Strategy

- Pol en openbare financiën (politics and public finance)

- Psychology (if I don't make the 8 points)

Semester 2

- Werkcollege Onderzoeksmethoden

- Sociale demografie (social demography)

- Cartografie (cartography)

- Politieke structuren van de VSA (political structures of the USA)

- Politieke structuren van de EU (political structures of the EU)

- Historische geografie en langdschapsecologie (historical geography and landscaping)

All in all 12 (or 13) subjects (2/3 more than normal) and 66 (or 72) study-points (60 is normal). A good old hectic year! especially since I want to continue my work for AIESEC and perhaps join VUBMUN. And continue having a social life and boxing.

What would you do?

2010-08-26T17:28:00.001+02:00

What would you do if you had no fear? What is it that has been floating through your mind, but you've always been to scared to do it? I for one have changed my life's motto from 'memento mori' into 'carpe diem'. And since then I have felt as if I owned not only the world but myself!

Why not try it? Don't tell me what it is but answer the following questions:

1) Could it seriously injure someone else? (so you won't start shooting innocent civilians)

2) Could it possibly make someone else happy? (besides yourself)

3) Why not do it? (if the answer on question 1 is NO)

Just to clarify, I'll give you an example: I would love to go out with a certain person, and have the guts to kiss him at the end (I now he's too chicken). So if I put that through the three questions I get:

1) No.

2) Yes, at least me.. and since I don't see him everyday there's no harm in trying is there?

3) DO IT

It's not as if I have that much to lose. I never see him apart from dates. And I think I would like spending a lot more time with him. Now just to wait until he's home again.. Hopefully I won't be in Holland then (office work for a couple of weeks).

Lectured on men

2010-08-25T10:01:00.003+02:00

Yesterday (and the day before) I ate at HB's. I hadn't been there for some time so he had some time to prepare some things he had to say to me. And he did. Every time he starts lecturing me I feel like I'm home again. The difference is my parents never ever touched the subjects of men, boys and boyfriends - besides an occasional rant on the problems in Africa and the use of Arabic in the world - that is all HB talks about.

So this is what he said: I should get a guy who is sweet (but not too sweet because that means he will have more than one face), has long legs (those people are nicer), is poor, is less intelligent than me (for the needed balance) and most important of all I should not differentiate based on ethnic origin. And that I am a great person, it's just that I am a little hard to understand for people who don't know me.

Telling this took him about an hour and a half. Monologue. You won't believe how flustered and blushed I was. I don't think I even objected to anything he said, I just sat there in utter discomfort staring at him.

Later, when my brain kicked into gear again we (lies and me) started theorising. Lies had told me about the nephew of The Gladiator (who was not suitable for me - according to HB - due to great cultural differences and a lack of intelligence). Apparently he (the nephew) saw us at the boxing match a couple of months ago and showed interest in us. Since she is not allowed to talk to other men (and told him so) he probably went to HB to ask about me.

Could this lay at the origins of this latest lecture?

2010-08-25T09:40:00.000+02:00

Wrong or not?

2010-08-23T09:53:00.007+02:00

Something is going horribly wrong with me. Let me just tell you the symptoms, perhaps you have a clue what's wrong with me.

My apartment looks like I suffer from a mild case of OCD,
I busy myself with plants, views, cooking, brunches and lunches,
I found out I hate to eat alone, especially breakfast,
I've come to love and respect my dad! (I even send him weekly postcards),
I've stopped wondering why people like and/or even love me,
I'm slowly starting to find kids/babies adorable,
I found I am willing to sacrifice some of my freedom for someone else,
I can't stop dancing, smiling, laughing and having fun,
I've realised I'm happy.

So, doctors, what's the verdict?

Plants 3.0.

2010-08-22T14:56:00.003+02:00

Plants

Just click on the pic and it will link you to the picassa webalbum :0)

I've gone a little over the top I'm afraid, but I love it!

Martha Steward try and top this!

Pardon me, sir gangster, but I believe your trousers are descending

2010-08-15T16:44:00.003+02:00

What is it with "gangsta's" feeling the need to show their undies? Yes, I know your mum cleans them and folds them and sticks them into your closet again.. but I don't need to see them!

Ok, I must admit it was funny when the real gangsters wore them. Then the music industry took the look over and linked it with near-naked dancing chicks. And who doesn't want to ware anything associated with dancing chicks? Even my oh-so-boring neighbour thinks he's "the man" when the world can see his pink-piglet undies. Or rocket-undies, or ones with "funny" quotes or batman/superman undies.

Now I've given my kind remarks on the undies themselves, I'll start with the descent of trousers. One upon a time there were trousers that fit and showed the full beauty and form of a guys behind. Since those perfect days the trousers got a little sad (either sad or they wanted to hide the diapers in them) and started sagging of. In desperation to cover their behinds guys started wearing belts, but they too started a decent and therefore lost their purpose. Today both can be found just above the knee, under the worst undies ever seen.. of boxers for that matter.

Concluding my rant I'm still at a loss on two questions:

1) How can pants stick halfway up a leg? (I'm still struggling to keep panty hoses from skidding down my legs)

2) What's happening on the front? I've never noticed a pant-descent on that side. Or did that not make it through the selecting process of my memory?

2 months of men

2010-08-12T13:46:00.003+02:00

This has to be one of the strangest summers ever. And I can only hope it doesn't get any weirder soon. Since I've turned my lifestyle around and started living by my new code (matters of the heart belong to the heart, matters of the brain to the brain) people have been liking me more and more.

It all began with one of my trainers (the old guy with a one year old kid. How stupid do people think I am?), followed by that bus guy (sweet as hell, trustworthy and very young), subsequently my co-worker of two weeks (had a girlfriend, by boss warned me about him by telling me he spoke and thought later) and now one of my old high-school friends (I saw him again when I was back home, and last night he texted me asking if I wanted to kiss him).

All these guys, and not the one I dream about (yeah the bad choice in person)..

Diplomacy & Wilders

2010-08-10T19:40:00.004+02:00

Diplomaten krijgen instructies over Wilders

AMSTERDAM - Nederlandse diplomaten in het buitenland hebben afgelopen week instructies ontvangen met mogelijke antwoorden op vragen over Wilders en de PVV. Dat bericht NRC Handelsblad dinsdagmiddag. Het dagblad zegt te beschikken over een interne memo van het ministerie van Buitenlandse Zaken waarin mogelijke vragen en antwoorden staan geformuleerd. Hoe kan het dat een anti-islampartij zo populair is in Nederland? Hoe kan het dat Geert Wilders wordt vervolgd en tegelijkertijd meedoet aan de formatie van een nieuw kabinet?

Het ministerie, dat onder leiding staat van demissionair minister van Buitenlandse zaken Maxime Verhagen, ontkent dat dat Nederlandse ambassades in het buitenland instructies of een opdracht hebben gekregen, meldt het ANP. ‘Het departement doet nooit mededelingen over interne stukken en interne zaken’, aldus de woordvoerder van Buitenlandse Zaken tegen het persbureau.

Source: www.volkskrant.nl

The Foreign Affairs Dept. of Holland released a Q&A to all it's diplomats. It (link) contains questions and the subsequent answers to the PVV / Wilders and his (possible) functioning in the coming Dutch government. After the elections the (extreme) right-wing parties have simply won.

The following problems with creating a working parliament involved the Paars+ coalition (left & right, without the PVV), the Centrum coalition (left-centre-right) and the now Rechts coalition (Christian Democratic Party [CDA], Liberals [VVD] and a promise of support of Wilders [PVV]).

By now the Dutch have been updated with the changes in the political climate but for the international community it must be near impossible to follow. So here are the coalitions and parties. All coalitions have/had a majority.

Coalition: PAARS+

Includes: VVD, PvdA, D66, GroenLinks.

Coalition: BREED MIDDEN

Includes: VVD, PvdA, CDA, D66, GroenLinks.

Coalition: RECHTS

Includes: VVD, CDA, support by PVV.

Parties & leaders:

VVD: Liberal party - Mr. Rutte

PVV: Extreme right wing - Mr. Wilders

PvdA: Labour party - Mr. Cohen

CDA: Christian Democratic Party - Mr. Verhagen

D66: Democrats (centre party) - Mr. Pechtold

GroenLinks: Green-left - Mrs. Halsema

More information is available at: www.kabinetsformatie2010.nl

The Guy That Says Goodbye To You Is Out Of His Mind

2010-08-09T15:00:00.001+02:00

To all my friends and girls who have ever been left. And to every guy that is too afraid to admit they feel exactly the same.

And to my best friends who dare to sing:

Relationships I dont know why
They never work out and they make you cry
But the guy that says goodbye to you
is out of his mind

I love you all.

Energy flowing - plants 2.0.

2010-08-08T21:06:00.008+02:00

Today I went to the abbatoir market and bought some pretty pants/flowers (pics will follow as soon as my battery is recharged). Now that my view has improved I have too. Energy is back in my veins, my head is clear and I've found my sense of humour again. And I need to dance, so I called a couple of friends and we will be seeing each other next weekend! I'm really looking forward to it! Those pics will probably follow soon too.

Ow.. and I've made up my mind about the last post.. security seems the wiser choice.

A tale.

2010-08-07T17:18:00.006+02:00

Never mind how I would like to write about Brussels.. I can't, it's boring. So whatever you want to know just ask me or any other blogger who loves in this rainy city. Or buy the lonely planet, le routard or any other guide.

Once upon a time there was a foolish little girl who was head over heals about her guy-who-got-away. Living up to his name, he got away. As time passed she forgot about him and moved on to other men. Then as the-sweetest-guy fell for her and she had to do was was reach out, she remembered the guy-who-got-away. Since she was still a foolish girl at heart she called him for a brew. Unfortionately he was out upon a quest and would not return for another three weeks.

As she has to wait for a long time coming (for either man that is) she has time to make up her mind. Either go for security with the-sweetest-guy or dive into neglect and disappointment with the guy-who-got-away. Why on earth is it so hard to choose?

As for The Gladiator. I'm pretty sure he would be a mistake. No matter how amazing he is. I'm far to unattached and free for his taste. He's to strict and demanding for my taste.

Brussels

2010-08-05T20:22:00.002+02:00

All the things I write about have little to nothing to do with Brussels. It's a shame because it is one of the most fab cities in the world. So let me start by introducing you to "Le Riad Hammam". Lies and I went there when I got back from France.

The moment you step inside you have the impression to step right into the palace of a Persian prince. Everything is covered with the most pretty patterns and layed with cushions. The people who work there are welcoming and don't mind explaining the hammam procedures. The bath is clean, hot and steamy, and they even have a sauna to get you dry again. Afterwards there always are the snacks and sweet tea. The place to be for a relaxing afternoon.

Conversation

2010-07-30T11:56:00.005+02:00

This is a little conversation I have almost every training. And it hardly ever changes.

Trainer: left, right, left, right upper cut.

Me: doing as told but avoiding hard punches so he won't hurt is (bare) hands

Trainer: do that right again but harder!

Me: right, but a little harde

Trainer: come on! Give it your best shot!

Me: giving it my best shot

Trainer: face twisted in agony

Trainer: you're strong.

Me: are you ok?

The first time it was fun. Now I now what he is going to ask from me and give him a questioning look before I slam my right fist into him.

Back to life in three weeks

2010-07-26T17:51:00.002+02:00

Although it sounds like a really bad spa add, it is true. Three weeks in a 5 star place (with dad in France) will do the trick. Especially if you get to muck out stables in the morning, come home to a home cooked meal, have a little siesta and an afternoon walk. Oh and did I tell you yet about the breakfasts? Served with home made yoghurt, juice, fresh fruit (peach/apricot trees) and a perfectly boiled egg? Gosh I miss it already and I've only been home for ten hours!

As you can probably guess, holiday's over. Three sodding little weeks are just too short if you're having a good time. And as usual that's exactly what I had; a bloody good time.

Now it's back to 'work'. My Psych book (very thick, blue and full of absolutely useless little facts) is already staring down at me from it's high and lonely shelf. Oh how I would love to toss and burn it.

Hello life!

2010-06-29T13:27:00.003+02:00

Yabadabadooo! The exams are over and they went really well!! That means that I have my life back and won't have to give it up for some while! Since the last exam (Saturday morning at 8 AM - uhu) I have been making up for the lost month and a half. That's probably all I should say about it.

Since I'm stress free this guy has thought it a good time to start liking me. The problem is I don't like him in that way. And he is a friend/trainer, old (remember I'm still nearly a kid), small and he has a year old son. God I hate this, I hate having to tell him I have no feelings whatsoever for him. I like him enough not to want to hurt him. Besides he decides how many push-ups and sit-ups I have to do, and I don't think I want to be on his bad side.

Why can't it be The Gladiator? He was as grumpy as I was yesterday and I did not even get my tri-weekly smile :(

Anyway I'm counting my days till I can go see my dad. A walhalla of peace, quiet and relaxation. Far far away from the Brussels dramas.

Celebike

2010-06-23T15:01:00.003+02:00

This morning my cheery and very flowery bike were stopped at the red light. Contrary to what you might think it weren't the cops thsi time. It was a journalist for Victoire (link) who wanted to write an article on transportation. And who would love to include my happy bike in it! Since I was on my way to the library she gave me her card and asked to e-mail her with my contact information.

So I e-mailed her & I'm waiting for a reply now.

Cleaned and Greened

2010-06-19T21:57:00.007+02:00

Most of you don't know but I'm pretty fussy with having people over. My apartment is me, therefore if one sees my apartment one sees me. But I shoved all my fears and cons aside and invited Lies and her boyfriend (a.k.a. our boxing trainer) over to watch the NED-JAP (1-0) match. As I expected he was about 90 minutes late, but just in time for pancakes.

To cut a very very long story short, he loved my place and could not find a single thing he would want to change, but my view.. my view was unacceptable for him. My apartment is in what the French so luxuriously call a 'souterrain'. Normal people would call it a basement with a view to stairs and a stripe of sky. The stairs I look at are not very clean, and I was happy to see them turn a mossy green. However HB (as I will henceforth call Lies's boyfriend) thought they were not clean and that I should have more green.

Now, plants and me are not friends. My fingers kill green. I have managed to destroy a cactus by not watering it at all. My latest victim is/was a very cute little fig tree. HB thought it was still alive, watered it and put it on my stairs. Accompanied with a couple of plants and ferns he pulled out of the garden and a baby-chestnut tree he planted in my trash-bucket.

I do not know why, but he cleaned my view, cleaned my window and planted plants! And he is not even my boyfriend! Besides him being very sweet (and he does not have a garden of his own) I thin he is trying to earn my approval for his relationship with one of my best friends. However it may be.. I'm happy.

p.s. he promised to get me some more plants.. ow, and I have to keep them alive!

Shopping

2010-06-17T17:21:00.006+02:00

Today I spent at least 10 minutes finding and deciding on a new hair conditioner. I did not even attempt to find toothpaste or a suitable deodorant.

Apparently we (as in people) think it is necessary to have at least a choice between three hundred different kinds of shampoo, conditioner, hair masks, wax, mousse or gel. This also applies to cleaning products (what's wrong with water and vinegar), ice-cream, postcards, canned food, fresh food, fish, meat and even for chewing gum. Why is it we need such choices? Isn't our life stressful enough without having to choose every single thing we want? Am I the only one who is dazzled every time I step into a large supermarket?

Lessons

2010-06-15T17:22:00.002+02:00

For further reference there are some things you just can't do around some if not all guys. One: don't say 'schatje' (honey) when you are running in the middle of the group. No matter what language they claim to speak, this is a word they all understand. And they will look back to see who you are referring to. And those who don't look back have suddenly transformed their ears to size soup-plate. For the record I was referring to van Persie (link) and I just couldn't remember his name.

Two: although people speak French and Moroccan around you does not mean they don't understand Dutch. They most certainly do. So don't start complaining about underwear, shaving legs, bra's or the fact that too much sport has made your boobs smaller. And for that matter refrain from saying things about people they know too. I'm so ashamed it took us nearly a year to figure this all out. By now they must know nearly everything about us (including our bra sizes). Thank God we refrained from talking about them when they were near.

One last thing on 'our guys': They are soo sweet! Since the beginning of the world championships soccer we have been playing football rather than boxing. And as girls we pretty much suck. Well I'm not that bad although I have tackled a couple of guys over the last couple of trainings (including some that were apparently on our team). However no one has become angry or irritated so far. And once we do something correctly they complement is directly. Even though they are on the opposing team.

Elections

2010-06-14T09:41:00.002+02:00

The elections in Holland were a disaster! We made a huge leap right to our liberal party VVD and PVV (well, some of Wilders's points are definitely very left) and our Labour Party became second! Something that had not happened in a very long time. Holland is now divided into two large camps: The left Labour Party (PvdA) and the Right (VVD / PVV - Wilders). I wonder how they are going to create a functioning parliament.

As for the Belgian elections a similar evolution has occurred. They actually made a choice between separation or non-separation. The Flemish fight wing party of Bart de Wever who is pro separation and wants Flanders to integrate into the European dream won in Flanders. However the poorer French south of Belgium is not for separation and therefore voted for the Socialist Party (PS). The general opinion is that the French will provide a prime minister (the Flemish don't want to touch the position any more since the problems Leterme encountered). To conclude I have to remark that Belgium not only has a two camp problem (similar to the Dutch) but that this fault is exactly on the pre-existing language barrier.

Lo and behold

2010-06-12T17:21:00.005+02:00

I think I have finally figured out why I like that certain type of guy. The Alpha-male, the Giant, the Intellectual. I just want to be safe and it doesn't matter if it's by sheer muscle force, the hugeness of the guy or his wits. I just want to feel safe.

Don't think I can't look after myself, I CAN.

* just imagine combining the three types into one...

2010-06-12T12:28:00.002+02:00

Some food for thought/gossip

2010-06-10T21:28:00.005+02:00

Thursday evening. All I did was study, so now it's time to chuck those pj's and get out of the house. Don't worry I'm only going to get some ice cream. And of course chat about some things that have come to my attention lately. Nothing really important, I just couldn't turn down a night of gossip and ice.

Who knew I was favoured by one of my trainers? (I'm not supposed to know but some people are good friends and tell me the things I need to know) Just to be clear, it's not The Gladiator. But just think, if I have that effect on a trainer who is going on 28, what do our guys (read: The Gladiator) think of me/us?

My dad had his bi-annual endoscopy and everything is fine. He only had a little red spot in his oesophagus but the doctor said he needn't worry! I'm really relieved and looking forward to my summer holiday with him! I think I'll enjoy being his little girl again for just a couple of weeks.

Just a little crazy

2010-06-04T23:32:00.005+02:00

I probably shouldn't be writing this, let alone post it. But by now you should know I'm a tat crazy, so don't hold it against me will you.

On this beautiful summer night I sit alone and imagine his arms around me. His chocolate voice whispering sweat nothings in my ear. His lips close enough to nibble my neck. His arms rewrapping around me to pull me closer.. And then I wake up and remember I'm not aloud to fantasise about him. It is already a bad idea that I have to glance over every time he works out. But those big brown eyes and those huge arms.. how can I resist?

No, no, no, no. It's the worst idea ever! Never I say you, never!

Although.. I can't help but notice his glances. And the way he sticks to where I am. And the way he talks. Just for the record: two sentences (complete ones) in two weeks - that is a lot! And the way he sat besides me after his victory. And me just sitting there, not sure if I should complement him. Oh how I wish I had! I can't help but wonder.. what if?

What if he was just one of those skinny little guys? What if he did not have that caveman vibe? What if this is just a pre-exam-stress thing? What if I'm just looking for some arms to cuddle in? What if my track record was not a disastrous? What if he likes me?

Pre-exam rant

2010-06-04T19:13:00.003+02:00

Some happy soul once said that law is mind without reason. I concur! It is the most tedious subject ever, especially with the sunny weather outside. However laws and regulations are one of the main elements in our society capable of regulating it (besides common sense). Given we all respect the law (to some extent) it seems to be a necessity in order to coordinate our world. And yes, law is made by institutions who base their power on a majority vote, making the law something we want. Not something we want to learn by heart.

Luckily the uni provided me with some other subjects such as International Communication, Structures and Processes of the European Union, Management Sciences and History of Foreign Affairs. Just to keep my spirits up. :)

To cut a long and very boring story short: it's Friday evening, I have an excess of energy and the most daring thing I'll do all night is post this post. It's my (social) life is officially over until the 26th of June. That equals: 22 days, 5 exams, a growing mountain of paper, ceiling staring and severe cases of fried brain syndrome. By the way I'll be taking a minor in Social Geography next year. Not that this is of any concern now, but I just wanted to mention it.

Stealing some lines of Willy Nelson: "Hello walls, how'd things go for you today? Hello window, well, I see that you're still here. Hello ceiling, I'm gonna stare at you a while."

Boxing

2010-05-30T21:56:00.004+02:00

This weekend Lies & I went to the boxing matches of 'our guys'. It was great!! I would have never imagined I would like the image of two guys beating the living hell out of each other. But I do. Especially if it are our guys!

My respect for them has at least quadrupled, how else to react on their bravery?

The results? 2 wins, 1 loss and 1 tie (ought to have been a win!)

for more info:

www.boxebelgium.be

2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™

2010-05-22T14:55:00.001+02:00

Watermelon

2010-05-22T13:46:00.001+02:00

I have a watermelon craving!!

Summertime :)

2010-05-22T13:20:00.002+02:00

Everything outside breathes summer! It looks like a whirlpool of skirts, shorts and tops all with vibrant colors laying in groups on the green green grass. This is the time Burssels is at it's beautiful!

In the mean time I'm inside with warm jeans and two sweaters, cramming European administation and competences into my head. The minute I step outside I'm back in summer mode. Top, skirt, flipflops a good book and some warm sun, just to lie back and catch up on some zzz's.

As an extra to these sunny times boxing is better than ever! We get to beat echother up and receive some copliments for it too. The moment they start asking if we're still friends is the moment we realise we are doing a really good job! Furthermore we were invited to a boxing match next Saturday! Definately looking forward to that!

Dreaming of the moment SUMMER truly begins and I can go see my dad in France!

Today

2010-05-11T19:36:00.002+02:00

Another letter from my dad today. A page full of illegible scribing, signed by his full name.

I love mail :-D

Queensday in Brussels

2010-05-01T13:07:00.004+02:00

The lifelong game of find-the-Dutchman has become so much easier today! For those who have noticed.. we’re all in orange, red, white and blue. The colours of our little country, and a bit of extra orange to celebrate the birthday of our queen. Or so we say. In fact we celebrate the birthday of the grandmother of our current queen. The reason is simple, April 30 has a greater chance of being a beautiful day than the actual birthday of Beatrix! Tradition dictates we all go out and have a perfect day.. and that is exactly what I did today & what we will be doing tonight! (for more info on Queensday just use this link)

(Next afternoon)

Had a blast going out.. Wearing orange t-shirts with ‘Holland’ stamped across our tits probably wasn’t the best idea ever, but who cares! We made it pretty easy for people to find a good ‘first line’ resulting in pretty much the same one over and over again. Just to give an example I’ll give you our side of pretty much every conversation we had:

- Yes, we are from Holland.

- No, we live in Brussels.

- It’s the birthday of our queen.

*thinking* You don’t speak a word of Dutch and you have only been to our capital.. don’t think you know a thing about us, or think we are 'so great'!

In the end we found refuge in a group of guys who just couldn’t give less about us being blond or Dutch. We instead talked about football (they knew more about our Dutch team than we did combined), Combat sports and how the world hates Parisians (I kind of had to escape from one). All in all it was a pretty good evening/night.

On a completely different note.. ‘the Chef’ (see earlier posts), I don’t really know what to do about him.. I think I like having him around, but I’m afraid of doing something completely wrong (like writing this). Add the fact that he’s not the most communicative person in the world, stir well, add baking time and you get the result of a stressed me... and I don’t like stress!

And on!

2010-04-28T14:59:00.003+02:00

I'm taking a little break from my European wars, so this probably is a perfect time to start posting something on my little blog.

It seems my life fell right back into track when I got home. Dividing my time between sports, uni, the library, aiesec and friends. But better times are coming! Next week my big bro (Wednesday through Friday) en my mum (w/nd) are due. I'm really looking forward to that!

Well.. I guess that's probably it.. except if you count.. oh, never mind.. I'll write about that an other day.

Recess is over. Bismarck awaits my attention :)

On friends

2010-04-20T10:03:00.000+02:00

A friend is one that knows you as you are, understands where you have been, accepts what you have become, and still, gently allows you to grow.

W. Shakespeare.

Saturday evening

2010-04-17T19:51:00.004+02:00

Saturday evening; mum will be to bed at 9h30 and I am not to leave the premisses.. Not that there is anything other to do than to attend a performance of the local big-band (= torture). So instead I will sit in the most ugly-huge-leather chair you can think of and read Kissinger (Diplomacy). Maybe I'll even eat some home-made banana-apricot muffins and drink some tea.

I agree.. I have no life here :S

Loesje

2010-04-15T12:39:00.000+02:00

Recipes & more

2010-04-14T10:48:00.008+02:00

I found them!! The recipies for Msemen (link) and Meloui (link)! Now off to get the groceries (for the pancakes, dinner and muffin basics - mum is in a rut).. Then to try out the recipes!! I hope they are as good as the ones my local bakery makes.

I just came back of a 8km run in the woods.. it was perfect! The woods were still deserted, a little early morning sunshine and a live deer. Mix and serve as a perfect morning run. :)

In case you haven't noticed I'm back in Holland.. You better watch out if you're in the neighbourhood.

---

For the recipes, add a little more water and they'll be just perfect. Mum and I made apple muffins, two for me, five for mum and the rest for the office tomorrow. Giving is not always better when it comes to muffins.. unless it is my butt talking.

Silly, silly, stupid me

2010-04-11T16:19:00.010+02:00

I have an appointment this evening with 'the Chef'. It seemed like a responsible thing to do yesterday evening (after a shaker and a half and a guiness).. Now it just seems plain stupid. I don't have a clue what to expect. The only thing I'm sure of is that he'll make me chocolate mousse and there will be a horrible amount of kissing.. I better floss...

I'm halfway into a state of terror/panic/dread... Shit..

-----

Ok, so the panic was completely overrated! I kind of fell asleep at 18h00 only to wake up feeling incredibly guilty around midnight.. However he was supposed to text me when he got home, and he didn't. It will be a fun little anthropological bit of male research to see if he's actually bothered to apologise. The best thing of all is that I'll be in Holland (other sim-card & cell number) this week... hahaha. It'll be a shame if he doesn't there was something particular about this guy.

Sun!

2010-04-06T15:05:00.007+02:00

The sun is shining, I feel good & nothing is gonna stop me now!

I'm off to a sunny patch of grass with my political reading material :) Thank God for this lovely weather!

Polkadots

2010-04-05T14:54:00.004+02:00

J zegt: je kan aan de ene kant keihard zijn, maar toch ook een lieve kant hebben

J zegt: no biggie

L zegt: grijs maken ipv zwart en wit aanhouden?

L zegt: beter geformuleerd: roze maken ipv rood en wit aanhouden?

J zegt: zoiets

J zegt: of rood met witte vlekken

J zegt: wit met rode vlekken wordt iets fouter

J zegt: alhowel, allebij fout...

J zegt: nvm

L zegt: mm.. polka dots.. dat kan ik wel

J zegt: lol

I have my very own msn shrinks, what would I do without them?

Escape

2010-04-05T12:52:00.007+02:00

Why is it so easy to escape, procrastinate of however you like to call it? I forgot my cellphone at the AIESEC office Friday, and I have to go and pick it up. Watching Grey's Anatomy all morning seems a more appealing thing than to get on my bike and go get the thing! I'm afraid. I don't want to know if he texted me.

So here are my options:

1) Procrastinate

2) Go and get the darn thing!

2.a.) He texted.

2.a.a.) Text back

2.a.b.) Don't text back

2.b.) He did not text -> forget the whole thing

I hate choices! But I'm going for option 2. You'll here what happened.. Once I go..

------

06/04/2010

2.a.a. :0)

Easter Lunch - Everyone is welcome!

2010-04-03T12:50:00.001+02:00

Easter Lunch / Paas Lunch / Déjeuner de Paques

Tipe:

Partytjie - Feesmaal

Datum:	04 April 2010
Tyd:	01:00 nm. - 04:00 nm.
Ligging:	Goffartstraat, BXL
Straat:	Rue Goffart 120
Stad/Dorp:	Ixelles, Belgium
	Besigtig Kaart

Beschrijving

An Easter get-together for everyone who would like to come.
Just one rule: everyone has to bring something so we get a nice and diverse meal!

Whoohoo, een paas lunch! Speciaal voor iedereen die niet aan pasen doet of gewoon in Brussel rondhangt. De enige regel is: iedereen neemt iets me zodat we een leuke en afwisselende lunch hebben!

Whoohoo, déjeuner de Paques! Pour ceux qui veulent venir, il y a qu'une règle, ramène qqc à boire ou à manger :)

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=108400725856367

Company Meeting #2

2010-04-03T12:15:00.002+02:00

The second company meeting. I must say I was a lot less nervous, I was a lot more 'icy'. The guy we had the meeting with had an almost palpable ego. Though he was just out of university for a couple of years he felt greatly superior to us. Somehow we made it through the meeting without letting down our defences (he attacked a lot) or falling over (he enjoyed kicking our legs out beneath us). Future prospects with this company are slim.. but we have nothing to loose have we?!

Friday another calling-circle-day followed by a couple of terrace hours! Until then just enjoying my two week holiday!

Strange conversations

2010-03-31T14:46:00.003+02:00

As a short into, these Russians train (boxing) with us, and not long ago decided that talking to us would be fun. Since first contact (no, they are not extraterrestrials) we have received lots of winks en smiles.

Russian1: Is your bike broken?

Me: Not yet

Russian1: Where do you live then?

Lies: Names neighbourhood

Me: Name neighbourhood

Russian1: Aren't you scared to go home alone?

Russian2 & Me: That's why we box, isn't it!

Russian1: Just give them a hard upper-hook and you'll be fine.

Russian2: Grins.. he knows our competences.

Russian1: So what are your names?

Lies & Me: State names & you?

Russian1: Viktor.

Russian2: Lacha (or something that sounds fairly similar)

Russian1: Are you married

Me: No

Lies: To each other? (adds confused expression)

Russian1 & 2: Ehh, why are you not married then?

Lies & Me: We're far too young!

You can figure out the rest of this conversation. It was so weird! But that was not just weird enough for one evening. Lies had decided to invite a Dutch guy we met at boxing to our Easter lunch (see facebook for your invite, or to rsvp), so she texted him. The whole conversation was a little strange, so she decided to meet him at Bourse. As it turns out it's not the same guy! :S We were so embarrassed!

After this expedition into embarrassment we had a superb training (Fur-ball wasn't there). When we were stretching Little-trainer asked us if we had eaten cheese again. Lies answered that we liked Moroccan pancakes more. Little-trainer nearly laughed his head off and led the conversation into Moroccan foods. I think we have an invite at his place (or at his nieces).

Company Meeting #1

2010-03-30T12:18:00.003+02:00

I don't think I have been this nervous for some time. Mr. Nuger was friendly, though it was clear the only motivation he had to see us was to benefit from us. Not that this should surprise me.

Lotte (current Head ER) came with me and lead the conversation. She literally knows everything there is to know about AIESEC and what we can deliver to companies. I kept a little to the background to see how she handled the whole situation, and because I'm just a newbie in ER.

All in all I think the meeting went really well, and that Steepconsult is a good TN potential.

Oef, I'm glad it's over! Looking forward to the next meeting on Friday!

Girl stuff

2010-03-29T22:23:00.008+02:00

Someone has a problem with me. And I'm pretty sure that someone is reading this. So, please tell me what I have done wrong! I can not think of a single thing I have done to hurt or disgrace you in any way, except maybe having a life. Sorry, that probably was rude. Anyway, you have been angry with me since the beginning of the year, but it took you months to finally burst. I can't believe that me kissing that guy made you so angry.

Since I believe I have done nothing wrong, and you are angry with me for no apparent reason (believe me I have thought about this for a very long time). I think it is only fair to me that you tell me your point of view.

I'm sorry it had to go this way,

Love,

P.S. I'm not bloody angry with you. But since you are with me, that is Your choice. Fyi, I will keep on doing as if nothing happened.

P.P.S. This is the best way to lose friends!

Company meetings

2010-03-24T16:13:00.002+01:00

Whoohoo.. after three weeks of calling (ehh, a couple a week) I finally found two companies that are interested in taking on interns. So next week I'm going to have my first TWO COMPANY MEETINGS!! On one hand I'm scared but also really thrilled. This is what keeps AIESEC running!

The first company was not really thrilled. And I guess a little confused. Especially since the Human Resource department guy only spoke French (and a little English). But we set a meeting for Tuesday morning, and I hope I can raise a TN (= internship)

The second company already knew AIESEC and was absolutely psyched to work together! We set a meeting for Friday afternoon (that would be 'chill' according to him). This could actually lead to lots of TN possibilities!

Little hurray and hand of applause for me!

P.S. I'll keep you updated!

On the tips of my toes

2010-03-21T17:57:00.003+01:00

Saturday night was a great night for an evening out. The temperature was a mere 14 (!) degrees and the whole Dutch gang (+ a new member) was back together. As usual we started off at Mappa. The more we go to Mappa the less appealing the place seems to be. The prices are incredibly high, it is always crowded and the people that attend are not my kind of people. After a single beer we decided to go to Coaster, what was full so we ended up at Blues & Booze. Since we have a new member in our rapidly extending Dutch community we employed a democratic vote on where to go next. The majority (all four) voted for Celtica. Although this was my first time around, it'll probably not be my last! It was great fun!

There is this thing called Me. And if Me dresses up in a black tank top, jeans, boots and a necklace that screams "I'm an anthropologist" Me becomes happy and at ease. Add a couple of heavy duty Belgium beers and Me is in for an all-nighter.

In this case the all-nighter was until four at Celtica and it was so much fun! I'd completely forgotten how it was to have someone arms wrapped around me.. but I remember again. :P Gawd, he was a Giant!

New PINK gloves!

2010-03-18T15:57:00.002+01:00

Home sweet home

2010-03-14T15:39:00.007+01:00

Home sweet home, the only thought going through my mind right now. I have not a clue as to how I do it, but I'm exhausted every time I go home for the weekend. Anyway as usual it was great fun, even though I did not get around to see any of my friends. I on the other hand did see my old German teacher (thank Gawd she did not recognise me), the sister-in-law of a friend and a two people I used to do voluntary work with.. and all that in one afternoon in Zeist!

Besides the social sight seeing I did the necessary shopping (i.e. I raided the local AH), cuddled the dog & hugged my dad. In two weeks they'll both be going back to France for an eight month vacation.. so hugging was definitely a necessity!

Writing this I realise I simply love Holland. There's just something about the people, atmosphere and cities that are just amiss in Brussels, or Belgium for what it's worth. But even though it's such a great place to be, it is a better place to come home to. So, in order to appreciate it's beauty one must leave. And I did.

On a completely different note; I found this quote & want to share it: There is a tide in the affairs of men, which, taken at a flood, leads on to fortune; omitted, all the voyage of their life is bound in shallows and in miseries. (Shakespeare - Julius Caesar (Brutus))

On hobbies

2010-03-12T20:02:00.000+01:00

Most of us find public transportation one of the worst ways to displace ourselves. Some on the other hand find it fascinating. On of those peculiar people just sat next to me in the train back to Holland. His hobby was Public Transportation (or OV as we call it in NL). His goal in life was to have travelled every kilometre of railway in Holland. Last week he'd already done Friesland (a province in the North) and now he was working on the south.

As a student in Holland all receive an OV-card that permits them to travel for free during week- or weekend days. So the cost were covered since he was a student in earth sciences.

Is it just me or do I actually attract people with strange hobbies? This one definitely can be categorised as very-very-weird.

Talking about weird hobbies, I just want to say that L & I outran TL (the far too muscled boxing guy). After a killer training we had to loosen up by running 15 minutes and everyone was instructed to stay behind 'the girls'. After approximately 5 minutes we had lost most of them. By ten minutes TL was panting heavily and skipping the odd lap. When he did manage to get near us again he grunted (in his incredibly low voice) that he was an 'athlete' and would not be outrun by a couple of 'girls'. My best bet is that he is spending his weekend running laps in Cinquantenaire park.. I doubt his ego will let him do anything else. :-P The downside of this victory is that we will now have to do everything the manly (= right) way - even the push-ups, now that they have seen what we are capable of.

Wicked world

2010-03-06T19:24:00.004+01:00

I came across this lovely song and I just wanted to share it. Yea-a-a-ah, it's a wicked world.

P.S. I don't remember the movie he recommended, should I call him (and maybe get his (and/or my) hopes up)?

Normal?

2010-03-05T13:28:00.007+01:00

How to now if you are

NORMAL

1. You have a facebook and blogger account

2. You have a cellphone

3. You watch silly things or tv

4. You are fully aware of adult stuff

6. You register to unlimited text

7. You sleep late

9. You were so busy you forgot to read #5

10. You actually reed again to see if there's a #5 (don't worry, wala ding #8)

11. Now you're smiling, then you realise you're abnormal