Only One Day Left

It is truly crazy that there is only one more day left in the year! I have done so much, that 2012 better get a move on if it wants to out do 2011! To name a few key points of this year; Singing my first duet with Cameryn and her being amazing by announcing my year in Holland without my knowledge, thus leading to watching how angry my father was after he could do anything about preventing me going to Holland after almost everyone knew. Second would be having lots of fun and relaxation with the Thorogoods in Marthas Vineyard  (even while on crutches)! Of course I could easily make the third a package of my time in Nederland, but I would say that the key points have been making amazing friends from the first day on, and how without them I wouldn't be able to speak Nederlands; Realizing that being the new kid isn't difficult if you just let things happen and you fall into place with your new classmates; Being able to fully view America from another point of view; Learning to live in an unbroken household (something I had forgotten); Becoming more independent while also becoming more dependent; and learning an whole new language! Now these are not enough to truly describe how amazing these few months (it's only been a few months if you can believe that) have been.

I have finished my to-do list from yesterday and have almost filled next week. Also for New Years, I will be spending it with my friends, which will be a lot of fun i'm sure. Also like I said before, on new years day I am jumping into the IJsselmeer. The weather is warm (for winter) so no phenomena for me!

Everyone enjoy you last days of 2011, a busy year for everyone and everywhere! This year has really begun a new tune for the world to dance to.

Almost Complete

Ok so today I completed almost everything I had on my to-do list. The jacket I was looking at turned out to not be online, so this morning I was a little worried, and then it wasn't on the racks in the store. But I was able to ask in Dutch if maybe there were a few in the back. And my luck pulled through and there were! So I know have my nice warm, stylish (i'de like to say), and heavily discounted (50%) jacket! I also send out a few emails, I had ment to call two people but I forgot, that is on the top of the list tomorrow. The puzzle, is taking shape, and Tineke has almost completed the bottom. I am helping a little but when ever I sit down, I only am able to find a handful of the right pieces. I also looked at my biology and began reading the next chapter.

I have also begun reading Anne Frank (NL), so far it has been a little bit of a challenge but not impossible. I think reading this book will really help with my Nederlands because it is almost the same (if not more proper) Nederlands as what I am speaking with my Friends. I also have been playing lots of scrabble in the forms of Words With Friends (US), and Word Feud (Much of Europe). I currently am in about 14-15 games, and am winning more than half!

The mercury has really dipped now, with much colder air, wind, and a bit of rain that cant decide if its ice or water. So hopefully there is snow in the future. Maybe this has to do with the shift in weather; my knee is really hurting today, often feeling like something is in the way of my knee cap, and my meniscus (or general area) is sore. Two times I couldn't walk properly and had to sit down to loosen up my knee. All I can really do is to stretch it, massage it, and hope a nights sleep will help.

It's crazy how new years is only two nights away! Still not sure where I am going on new years eve, but on new years day, I am jumping into the Ijsselmeer!

Your Mission Should You Choose To Accept It

Is to follow me via this blog! And to go see the new mission impossible movie because it was just what an MI film is supposed to be. Action packed, really dramatic plot, plenty of guns, heads and other body parts slamming into things, good character chemistry, you get the picture.

Besides the movies, Wouter, Jelle, and I did a little bit of shopping. Wouter and Jelle each bought new jeans and Jelle also bought a new zip up. I purchased two nice button up casual shirts and a v-neck. I also did some scouting for a casual jacket that isn't a skiing jacket but is still warm, and not do thick. I have an idea but the one I liked isn't online. Tomorrow I may go got the Hoorn branch of the store to see if I can find it.

The puzzle is coming along nicely and I promise to upload pictures soon. I have been lazy with my posts, and am writing most of these right before bed.

Lewis isn't feeling so well, and is having bowel troubles. But it's nothing too serious, hopefully it will pas. Also tomorrow there will be more guests. I am also planning on going south for family but I haven't heard any responses to my emails, and I don't have the addresses or numbers of a few, which makes calling a challenge.

So tomorrow is jacket hunting, relative reaching, puzzle making, and maybe biology or physics studying. Sounds like a plan.

3000, 2000, 2011

We have begun the 3000 piece puzzle, and Tineke and a bit from myself have made headway with sorting and beginning a section. I think I'll try and take a picture each day that we work on it, so you all can see. Also we have continued to listen to the Top 2000 all day long from Radio 2. The top 2k is a listener voted listed of the 2k best songs of 2011. It lasts from December 26-31. The music really varies from classics to new pop.

Amsterdam is tomorrow now, and if the weather holds, then we shouldn't have to worry.

With the "Family"

My extended host family was over today for an after Christmas dinner, which is traditionally very much like Thanksgiving without the required foods. The family included two sisters of Jan, their husbands, and the son and daughter of one. Also Bono the dog came along, who was a problem for Lewis at first but by the end of the night the two had warmed up to each other. Dinner was delicious and I almost over stuffed myself, but I had to save room for the apple pie!

Once dinner was finished we had a bout of singing. The request from Jan was an American song, so I chose American The Beautiful. Then after talking a bit about choirs and groups, I showed a few videos of HCA on youtube. This lead to everyone requesting videos, and adding more fun to the night. We also talked about a multitude of things, nothing as strange as a Cohen thanksgiving but it was diverse enough.

After everyone had left, we sat down and watched the live action version of Asterix & Obelix and the Olympic Games with very well done Dutch voice overs. Followed by Asterix & Obelix and Cleopatra in French with Dutch sub titles. Finally seeing the live action A&B was great and brought back memories of reading all of the books in Elementary and Middle school, and plenty of laughs.

I have posted the images from yesterday on yesterday's post so take a gander is you would like!

A Very Sunny Christmas

If my memory serves me correctly this is the first or one of the first in a long while, of Christmases where the outside temperature was way above freezing. To the point where I would have been only slightly discomforted without my light fleece, when out side. Also the sun was shining for most of the day. But I learned this in the after noon.

Morning brunch was at eleven. Consisting of fresh orange juice, chocolate croissants, mini multi-grain rolls, bioled eggs, and Christmas bread. Tea and toppings for the rolls were also on the table. The Christmas tree patiently waited with the gifts underneath, through the morning. Once everyone was finished with brunch, it was time to open the gifts. Each person took a turn to retrieve a gift from under the tree, and the present it to whom ever it was intended. Some of the gifts included: A 3000 piece puzzel for everyone to complete, from Tineke and Jan; After a taste test, a fine bottle of Whisky for Jan from myself; A new but slightly used smart-phone for Jelle, from Tineke; A new best seller for Jan, from Tineke; A large Penguin Nat.Geo. photo book for Tineke, from Jan; Magazine subscriptions for everyone (personalized to our tastes); A NEW ANALOGUE WATCH (I was in desperate need to get rid of my digital one for during the normal portions of the day) from my Mom; Earbuds, a new computer mouse, a book, and a few other things, from my dad; Ann Frank in Dutch for myself from Jan; Wouter has a new lamp, and also after getting through my LaBonde style present, has an IOU from myself. Leiwis also has a few new gifts: a new bone with meat on it, and many different things from the pet shop. One really surprising thing that was under the tree: an expensive bottle of Calvados from the BANK! A present from the bank? Now that is high service.

After presents, everyone walked to the park where we threw a frisbee, Tineke took photos, and played with Leiwis. After the park, it was time sit back and relax time, until dinner. Dinner was a deliciously large dinner. With turkey, stuffing, applesauce, and more. Followed by the usual small sunday desert. 


Photos by Tineke:

Wouter

Greg

Jelle

Lewis

This evening we watched both a Christmas Charol, and The Prestige. If you haven't seen The Prestige I highly recommend it. After tonight it is on my top movies list.


Now I hope everyone had a nice Christmas or has become totally relaxed as the prospect of school has escaped our minds. Good night, and fare well if you are off for a winter vacation.

Christmas Eve!

It's the night before Christmas, and it is any normal night with Wouter home. The only difference is that we attended a Christmas sermon at the local church.

Besides that the day was relatively uneventful. I was able to write my Christmas emails, and I also reconnected with a few people which was a nice surprise.

Now I would be lying if I said I didn't feel a little home sick this evening. Normally I would be up with my siblings following Santa with NORAD or enjoying a hot chocolate. But it is also very special to be here with the Wolkes for Christmas.

The night as some of you may have guessed, is being consumed by ticket to ride, and I can't tell who is winning at this point so that will be for tomorrow.

I wish you all a very merry Christmas, and Hanukah. Or just a relaxing winter break! Let's see what Santa left!

How Would You Fill A Day?

Today was a busy one. Beginning with my Physics retake which ended up not going as planned. Much of what was on the test isn't what I studied for, or what we focused on in class. But afterwards, we had a small class Christmas party before heading home for break.

Once home, I needed to get my test blues out of my head. So going against better judgment I went for a 45 minute run. Fortunately nothing bad happened and my knee feels fine, one things is that my whole body is stiff after two days of excersize, but that is a minor set back.

I also did some last minute Christmas shopping! Let's just say I really can pass for being older if needed.

Tineke recieved an iPhone 4S today also, so I helped her with the ever so long configuration process. But now after a good amount of retyping passwords and usernames, she is exploring how to use the new device.

I also received a few Christmas emails from very special people today. I am a bit too tired to reply with a worthy response, so tomorrow is Christmas email day (instead of spending a fortune by sending cards over seas)! Everyone enjoy your breaks and look for all the photos to be posted in the break!

Clocking Hours

Today I woke up and fought to get out of bed! But I eventually got onto my bike and headed to school. Two hours of Biology and plenty of talk about the protest made up the first two hours, and then for the third and fourth we headed back to the Gym where I worked everything from legs, to core, to upper body. Finally after a very complete work out, I headed back to school for English to wrap up the day.

Back at home I tried to Skype with my homeroom again but to no avail. Turns out the American side was using a school computer and they didn't know that those computers dont have microphones or the ability to use Skype well. Next year we are going to try a third time, and hopefully the thir dtime is the charm!

The rest of the day has been devoted to studying for my Physics test tomorrow, speaking of which I need to do some last minute cramming and the go to sleep! Talk to you all tomorrow!

Almost forgot: If anyone is having trouble with subscriptions please let me know!

Staken!

   Today I entered the world of political activism, with my first protest! Students from all over Holland came to Amsterdam to show our disapproval of a new law that would require students to have  more hours of school per week, in total making the required number of hours 1040 per year. But there would be no classes in those hours because there isn't enough money to pay teachers. Leaving the only the option of sitting in a study hall with nothing to do once we've finished our homework in much less time than the extra KWT uren plus any other KWT hours you already had to make. This poor decision from a group of people clearly seeing only numbers on paper and not actually thinking what it means for students and schools, prompted the student run organization LAKS  to plan the demonstration, as a way to let the parliament know what it really means for us!

A Google translated version of the LAKS memo for why the demonstration took place:

   Compulsory 'house hours "in the cafeteria? English lessons from your science teacher? Is your class in this way confined indoors? If the Minister is starting next year!

Tuesday, November 29, the House decided that starting next year students in school longer have to sit. But the schools are already too few teachers at all hours a competent teacher for the class to turn. That problem solved by the schools 'hours keep birds indoors' it. That are required attendance hours in which you learn nothing and at best can make some homework.

In 2007 saw 20,000 students this is not already sitting. We then stopped, and still keep poultry indoors, the hours are entered. We want good lessons from good teachers, because of confinement, we are not smarter. This is why the students on December 21 LAKS that go on strike again. We will show the Minister that we will not be confinement!

   The mottos of the demonstration were quality over quantity, and Stop more confinement (referencing to being basically caged in school for hours able to do nothing of importance). This was also said with We aren't chickens or rabbits (again referencing being caged up with nothing to do). Jet, Loïs, Wouter and then when Wouter didn't want the vest, eventually myself wore the blue vests so that we could keep our rabbit hutch. Here are photos, videos, and links from the day: NOS Article Video and Photos

It's Warm?

So strange stuff going on weather wise this week. Yesterday I was skidding on ice and this morning I was biking without gloves because it was warm! I don't know what is up, but I'm really hoping for a white Christmas because it would just make an amazing year, even more special. But that is on Sunday, and today is Tuesday if I'm not mistaken.

I was able to sleep in as I am every Tuesday morning, which is great to have. Then I went in for my chemistry tutoring, which didn't happen because the teacher was out. To make up for being at school early I knocked out a KWT hour for the week. I also was further filled in about what is going to happen tomorrow. I'm not going to spoil anything so I will leave you all to your own devices to maybe see us on TV/Online/ or wait for me to give a summary of the demonstration tomorrow evening.

At fencing we did something I thought was rather strange. Everyone practiced Sabré for the night. I was decent for my first time and I know I have learned a few things from overhearing Chris and Marshal work with the Haverford Sabré kids. To make up for the night and missing last week I am going to replace my running routine with fencing because my knees haven't been doing the best these last weeks.

Time to sign off, and prep for tomorrow!

This Week!

It is as if everything is coming together to make one big Christmas week! The morning started off with a new challenge, biking on ice! I successfully made it through all but the second to last turn. But it wasn't all bad though. I made a very clean baseball slide with my bike and when the ice stopped before the new road, I almost popped right back up! Unfortunately my peddles weren't in a good spot so I had to stop and restart. Then in gym I had another great time with the third class. The are an aggressive bunch and after being tripped a few times in soccer my right shoulder is feeling sore. Also both my knees are hurting...I don't think I'll be doing much sport over the winter break.

Physics was physics and I am getting a grip on the new topic, and in Nederlands my test wasn't amazing (far from) but it was .7 points better than my last (remember the grading system has different values)! So I just need to pass my next one and we'll be all set. Also I may be taking part in a protest against a new law requiring schools to require seven more hours per week, but the schools don't have the money or teachers to do this do everyone would have to add seven KWT hours to their schedule. If for example I had French again I would still have to make twelve hours of nothing per week under the new law. The protest is Wednesday in Amsterdam

When I got home I found that my homeroom Skype meeting will finally happen and it is because of a stroke of luck that my last hour was canceled tomorrow! So if you can get permission from your teachers go to miss mortlands room #353 to say hi! I'll be with a few of my friends here so have your questions ready! If your reading from Holland come to the aula in the eighth hour!

With that, I hope to see some of you tomorrow!

It's Beginning To Feel A Lot Like Christmas

Sleeping in until almost two o'clock today, was a new record. I have never slept that late into the day. I was shocked that Tineke, Jan, and Jelle saved some sunday breads for me! The rest of the afternoon was spent decorating the Christmas tree, much to Lewis' entertainment.

I also did a bit of studying for my Physics re take, on Friday. I have a good feeling about it!In the mean time, I can't believe that Christmas is only a week away, I hope everyone will find their Christmas presents delicious and beautiful when the time comes (I've been seeing many mysteries lately and so that was a clue to someone's present).

There isn't much more I can say I did today because I slept though most of it. Tomorrow I join the young-lings (by a year, two years for me) again for gym! Let it snow!

Amsterdamed

Finally the weekend has arrived and today was a great way to kick it off!

The day began with getting a much needed haircut, and checking that I have all the addresses for the evening. Then after a shower I was off to meet Rijnder, Jet, and Steven at the train station. After boarding the train we also encountered Lars and Aluka who were going to the party early to help out with preparations. So the train ride to Amsterdam was  fun and set the mood for the evening. Once in Amsterdam we walked in a slightly misguided auto pilot mode to the wrong section of Amsterdam. So we walked back and found the correct way to the theater. This ate up our eating time, so dinner was postponed until after Sherlock Holmes. I don't want to give anything away to people who are waiting to see the movie, but it was a good movie. Good mystery, action, and humor, all wrapped together. The movie was a long one too, two and a half hours (that's including ads). After quickly grabbing a bite to eat, our next stop was again central station to catch the ferry to the party.

The party was in an arty gallery building. At the moment there was no art on display at the time, and that is why we were able to party there. It was a fun party, with people playing games, jamming to music, watching the really neat 8bit, stop motion, or plain odd but interesting videos being projected on the wall. When it was time for those of us returning home to go home, I was ready for bed. But the night had more in-store. As we were getting off the Ferry it began to snow! So naturally we bagan singing Christmas songs, and ran to the doors of central station because the snow didn't last long in the air and by the time it reached us it was cold rain. Now this is were the night became a little annoying. The doors on the ferry side of Amsterdam central were all locked, and when we finally found an open one (after the train we wanted), the check in for the train cards "didn't work". I say that in quotes because when I placed my card onto the scanner, it read not possible. So I tried again at another checkpoint and it said it again. By the time we reached an officer, he said that it had worked and that I had been charged 10 euros for double checking in. So I have to call a number to get my money back. It finally worked and we boarded the train to Hoorn. BUT, in Hoorn when I tried to check out...the post read not "you have checked out" but the message it displays for checking in. What can you do...

I was home at three, and now I hope to get a nice long rest!

Well!

Today was a long one for my brain. After a test in Nederlands, and then an ever so confusing planning meeting for the movie trip before the party. My brain was fried. Unfortunately my homework was completed but it feels unfinished. I will probably check over it all. Also I was speaking more English today. I think it was a bad combination between writing high amounts of English for the blog and for school, and being tired. Before the everything tomorrow I will make sure to rest up and turn my brain off for a bit.

Jan a Tineke went to a Christmas concert this evening while Jelle took Louis to the puppy lessons. I thought of going but then decided against it in case having two people commanding her (yes if you have forgotten Louis is a female dog) was too confusing for her. Instead I stayed home a experimented with music.

I hope everyone had a good end of the week and have awesome weekends!

Beverly Body Body Builders

Today for gym class everyone signed into different activities. Myself a many others chose to go to the Beverly Gym. For fitness and conditioning. The staff there were all body builders and on ever wall was a show case for huge protein pills or muscle building weights. To tell the truth, it's disgusting. The bodies of the older men have too much left over fat and useless muscles. But besides that, the equipment was good and I was able to work on my cardio a bit. My heart and lungs are still not up to speed with the level of fitness that I was in before hurting my knee. Afterwards A few of my friends and I went to the supermarket to get some lunch. Oh yeah, I also gave Jack a ride on the bake of my bike. After a wobbly start I got the hang of it, and so now I can check off one more must be able to do's on my To Be A Nederlander list.

Back at school was two hours of English, and then I was out. Upon coming home I began making a list of things to do in my head. This didn't last long and so when I had a Skype call with my mom I wrote out everything. Which ended up being a pretty long list. So far I have four down a d seven to go! Also this evening after very confusing updates and times. A trip to the movies has been arranged. I'm am certainly looking forward to this weekend as there is also a birthday party in Amsterdam!

I am also making a greetings card for the year. I have a list of people who I'm already going to send it to. If you would like to make sure you're on the list, leave your email on this post or any, and I'll get back to you for mailing info!

Short and Interesting

Today was a short one, but also a very interesting day. With many things happening and many things being talked about. Beginning with ANW the atmosphere was excited (no pun intended). This continued into CKV where we ran into some trouble. One of the students was arguing with the teacher and upset her a bit. She then threw all of us out, and so it was only a half lesson. Then all that was left was Informatica until I was out for the day.

I did pick up my bike from the bike maker and now I have a new better tire on the back, and what makes me happier is that I have my nice comfortable bike back! Once home I relaxed, and began translating my biology homework. Reading is getting better but I still need to translate the text in order to understand enough for the questions. I'm not done unfortunately, i hop to be with this chapter by the end of the night. My math is done other than one part, I need to ask someone if they understand it.

I also met a Peacock on the way home!

In the evening after dinner we all went to the Dutch version of a Parent teacher conference. Mine was more for making a plan of how the rest of the year will look. My teachers understand that for the first tests my Dutch wasn't good enough and they think that it is the Nederlands that is the problem for now, and now how smart I am. They also said that oral tests will be the best way to test my understanding of the classes in the future, but I will still be taking the normal test which I am glad to do. Because if I begin scoring higher on the normal tests it means that my Nederlands is greatly improving.
I also have been slacking exercise wise. I haven't run in awhile, but I did do gym on Monday. Unfortunately my knee still is having some pains. Perhaps though they are from the ever changing weather, which would be a much more preferable option. I also ran into Lotte and her Mom while I was waiting for Tineke and Jan to return from Jelle's conference.

See you all tomorrow!

No Bike, Musical night

Well this morning I noticed that my tire was a little flat so I pumped it up to get to school. When school let out in the afternoon it was totally flat and I couldn't use it at all. I walked to the bike makers shop and there the said that they could replace the tire. Jan agreed to have a better tire put on, and it will be ready tomorrow. So i'll have it back soon enough.

This evening instead of going to fencing, Jan had a concert with his choir at the home of the director. So Tineke and I went along, while Jelle stayed home to watch Louis. It was good fun, and the music was nice. I also had good lengthy conversations with a few people (in total Dutch (ok almost if you count asking for words)), and just had a nice time listening to a choir again. I can't wait to join HCA again!

Tomorrow I have another short day, as my last four house were canceled due to sickness and unknown causes. Ill busy with my homework though, so no relaxing until that is done! I also think I may post some of the songs sung this evening tomorrow, so look fo that.

Hello Monday

First I want to make it known that I fixed Sunday's post. I have no clue why it's so difficult for my ipod to post posts correctly. Anyway go back if you like to see what I actually did yesterday.

In the meantime today I kicked the week off by joining the third graders (Freshmen by American standards) for two hours of gym class, because gym is a much more fun way to complete KWT hours  than sitting in a loud study hall. Then I went through my normal schedule of Physics, and Nederlands. My day was made short because the mentor lesson was only for a few students.

I reached a mental milestone today, and Nederlands is now easier to create in my head for speech than English. It is weird feeling, but a good one!

Also unfortunately news about my knee is back. After gym today, it is feeling a little sore and also some slight pains. I hope it will go away with rest.

Well that's a wrap for today, now i'm off to sleep!

No Plan

A well planned Sunday has no plans. Just spontaneous relaxing or fun activities. This is exactly what today was, nothing planned, but we ended up playing frisbee, and continued to follow the Volvo ocean race. Wouter and I helped a little with making dinner but all credit goes to Kees for making a killer monster lasagna! After dinner was just relaxation time for mostly everyone. Wouter has a little packing and laundry to do, but other than that it we all sat around the Tv or at the table with a book or computer/tablet/smartphone.

I got the homework I needed to get done, done. So now it's time to rest my head and recharge for this week!

Rustig Dag

Well I slept in until eleven-thirty this morning after a very late but great night.

I spent the day lounging around and skypeing with people from home. Wouter and Kees also came home today, and so the house was complete. Ticket to ride followed a delicious dinner and desert. I have won the first round with 194 points! On to the revenge round.

Tomorrow I plan to make the remaining bits of my homework, and then to relax a bit more with everyone.

Feest!

Well today begins the party marathon! With the birthday of Steven! We all partied hearty at his house after a few of us had dinner at Daan's who also had his birthday today! Next week is the birthday of julia and it is in Amsterdam!
And the week after that is another!

Steven's party was a blast and we danced all night long stoping for drinks and delicious snakes made by his mother! The music ranged from Dubstep to a bit of Trance. But was heavy on the Dubstep because Steven is a fan. Even after dancing my knee feels fine, so I think it's ready a head of time for ASOT.

I also sent of my package today. After feeling very much life father Christmas and also putting more tape on the box that I thought possible. But it is sent now and should be arriving in a week or two.

Everyone enjoy the weekend!

Awesomeness and Craziness!

Well I can't be any more happy with how I have done with my tests! Today I had my biology oral test and scored a 7.2! I now only have to wait a study for the retake periods to remake my Natuurkunde exam. Now this retake could have been any test but your only aloud one test per test period. All the other oral retakes were because my teachers were extremely understanding and let me speak my answers instead of writing them, because. My listening and speech, is better is than my reading and writing.

In gym we were using the rings for most of the class. Just yet another reason why Dutch schools and gym classes are awesome!

Some of you may have heard about the storm that's pummeling the UK right now, well you should know its dropping by here too. I know it's normal weather Nederland but for me it's a bit crazy. Biking home takes twice as long due to the fact that the wind is coming at me, but this makes going too school two times faster or just less energy needed! My rain jacket is holding up well, but has a few areas where my backpack's straps are that are letting some water into the first layer. I'm planning on buying some nikwax soon to help prevent this. Fortunately Tineke and Jan had a spare set of rain pants, and those are just as valuable, because without them I wouldn't care how dry my upper body is, my legs would be soaked!

To add to yesterday's post:
It was the birthday of my Opa (grandfather) on my dads side. I gave him a call and spoke to him in complete Dutch, which made him very pleased. I also was feeling the Christmas spirit as I wrapped quite a few things.


It's almost Friday everyone so just hang tight till the weekend. If your in the UK or Holland, take that phrase literally!

I'm Flying!

Today the wind was a gale. Everything left outside and not attached to something, or attached well, was blown away. Including myself when I was biking home. A huge gust came from my left as I was making a left turn, and literally lifted me a tiny bit and moved my bike from the center of the path to the far right. Also this morning there was quite a good amount of rain, and so everyone in school came in wet or damp. I slipped when stopping to fast on my bike and received a nice cut in my left index finger. It seems I can never not hurt my fingers.

I finished my package for home, and also got to see the Hurt Locker which is such a great film. Even after so many times.

its really late and I must go to sleep. There shall be more tomorrow!

Well, I'm a bit stupid

So this morning I had my extra help for chemistry. I decided I would go in a little earlier to make a study hall hour, but upon reaching school I found out I left my chemistry books at home. So I donned my rain jacket and bikes back. By then I was too late to make the study hall hour so I waited at home a little while. But when I left my books were on the dinner table, and again not in my bag...lesson to learn here? Always make your bag the night before, and double check before leaving for school. The extra help still helped because I mostly needed help with the theory and not with the problems in my book.

Other than that the day went as planned, and at fencing it was a double treat because it was a birthday and Meik and Max came along and seemed to enjoy themselves! There was also a bad side to fencing: my big toe is grown in and I hadn't realized it so now I will have to soak it and try and help before it gets worse.

Tomorrow brings eight hours of learning, and I have already packed my bag with everything needed, other than my laptop. That I will do in the morning. I also hope the hail lets up. It has been on and off all day, and there were some that were two centimeters in diameter! So better weather and a better memory, that's not too much to ask is it?

"Ouch! What was that?" "ow, ow ow!" Dec. 5: The Hail begins

So, after a morning of making the last bits of a project, cleaning my room, and working with the builder next door to help with getting power to his tools while their power was shut off, I made it to school with about two minutes to spare. It was definitely a close one. In school we continued with the velocity chapter of physics, and were assigned more projects and tests in Nederlands. Oh also for physics; for some reason more people voted for a test after the Christmas break which makes no sense to me. Why would you want to study over the break?!?

Upon retuning home I made some homework, and then switched to reading Sinterklaas. Which today was a very appropriate thing to do as it is the last and most festive day for Sinterklaas. After reading a few stories I went back to my homework, and being easily distracted by the internet. After dinner though I really dug in and translated three chapters of biology in full. Tomorrow morning I am going to answer the questions on each chapter after rereading them all. Now this evening I was running on a full pot of tea, one cookie, and relaxed deadmau5 tunes such Jaded ambient mix, Creep, Moment to myself, 15 minutes, and Contact  on loop.

During all this my mouse broke so I had no easy way to use my external keyboard easily because its hard to use the mouse on the laptop over the external keyboard.  So I am using my ipod as a mouse. Now the app I have is amazing and works really well. but its not quite good enough for large amounts of text/highlighting/ and such. But with all the practice I'm getting, its becoming easier to use. For anyone wondering, the app is Mobile Mouse Pro.

Tomorrow, is more of the usual, though maybe more not so fun weather. Also in the evening Max and Meik are coming to fencing to try their hands at the sport.

Happy Sinterklaas everyone! En dank je Sinterklaas!

Again? I need to fill my time better

So lacrosse was moved and I had the whole day to myself again...here's how it went.

This morning was our Sinterklaas morning, with shoes filled with chocolate letters lines the fireplace. Wouter didn't have shoes readily available so we used a cleat from when he played baseball. Then we had our normal Sunday breakfast of baked breads, with orange juice. I also am reading Sinterklaas stories, in between doing my Biology homework.

Dankjewel Sinterklaas!

I admittedly played too much computer and should have spent the time getting ahead in classes. I also went running today but stopped short because I was cramping all over and nothing I did helped. Next time (Tuesday), I will make sure to stretch more, and do it right after biking home from school. That way I'm warmed up.

Tineke Jan and Wouter went out during the day to a party held on a boat. Jelle and I stayed at home to go about our business. Dinner was one of my favorites; the main dish is cut up apples, and pears, mixed with ham, covered by a really delicious French cheese which I am forgetting the name of. Anyway, that was topped off by the Sunday desert which is always a special one. This time it was old fashioned pudding mixed with berries. Now it was more of a pudding, yogurt, hybrid, but still very good. A little on the sweet side in my opinion.

Now it is time for more homework and kids books!

And if you're a fan, or like some relaxing music, give a listen here:

Lazy Saturday

Well if you exclude a little excursion through out Hoorn during the afternoon hours. I did nearly nothing today, besides read Dutch kids book, play minecraft, read some more, talked with Wouter, should have done some homework and gotten a hair cut, and wrapped up the day playing more Ticket to ride which was intense this evening. Wouter in the end clobbered everyone with I think 220-3 points! Jan was also repairing a light which was flickering on and off. This flipped the circuit breaker a few times. During the games I also downed two pots of tea. If I get sick then it will have to only be cancer, because my system is so clean and antioxidant rich. Nothing will last long.

Sunday is no Lacrosse again because the game was moved, so homework it is! I better be going to bed not because it's one in the morning!

Im Official!

Well its all wrapped up in a very short visit to the IND office where I received my "Green Card"! Jan and I took the train to Hoofddorp which was a little far for such a short appointment, but it's what we had to do. When we got home after missing the first train by being on time but the train leaving early, it was time to relax. I thought of going out to get the graph paper but never did. Tomorrow I have quite the to do list on top of my homework.

Wouter is here to the weekend and we started off by playing two rounds of Ticket to Ride. Tineke won both times, with myself in second and Wouter in last. He had back luck both rounds and I didn't play enough of my trains to gain the extra points needed to win. I think I will also get a hair cut too.

Woohoo yet another passing cijfer (more than passing)!

I managed to do it again, by scoring a 7.9 in ANW (Earth and Sky studies)! It was an oral test which was done in broken Dutch filled in with English, and was pretty much the same as the normal test which I took week or two ago. Except this time I was able to explain my points better because of the fact that I can speak more Dutch than I can write. This is a big boost to my confidence, and I am retaking my physics test in the near future. Which I think I will score higher than a 5.5 on!

Today I also did a bit of shopping mainly for edibles for a few people but thats the only hint they are getting. Tomorrow I have to swing by a store again to pick up graph paper, because I forgot today. But that will be after Tineke, Jan, and I go to Hoofddorp for what may be on of the final bits of being legally aloud to stay here all year! I will be missing school but not very much since I would have only had two classes tomorrow, thanks to one being canceled. The others were just study hall hours.

Also today the set list for ASOT 550 was released! Its a bit too long to post so, I'm not going to do that.

Oh and if anyone is wondering where those photos of Hoorn are, they are still not taken. I either forget my camera, forget the SD card, have no time, or its too dark/raining. So I think I'll be taking them when its a winter wonderland or more a giant skating rink, if what I've heard about the winter weather is true.

Sick People, Grades, Fire Drills...Winter

People beginning to show the tell tale signs of getting sick, and some are already sick. I myself am included in the first group. My body is definitely fighting something off, which is why I'm going to bed so early, drinking lots of tea, and washing my hands as if I were a doctor! I don't have the time or ability to become sick this year, it would be brutal to try and catch up in my work, and it would throw a fork in the learning of my Dutch. So, if you're sick wash your hands and cough into your elbow! Not for me, but for everyone's benefit!

In math we reached a unit that I was struggling with last year. But because I struggled with it before, this was a piece of cake! I'm am really glad about that because it means that I am on the right track of achieving my goal to reinforce my math skills. I also received three more grades back today. One being Chemistry where I unfortunately scored a 4.2 which is not passing, but was in my ball park for the language barrier. What I was glad about though was all the questions I made, I made either correctly of partially correct. The second grade was Physics where I knew I had made dumb mistakes, and my grade of a 4. Something (can't remember at the moment) was expected. The last grade was in Computer sciences and there I knew I was in for a low score due to the surprising amount of history and text we are doing for a computer course. That grade was a 3.9. All and all I didn't fare very well if I were a normal student, I could have done better I know that, and my excuse of not knowing dutch very well is only valid to a point. For the next test week these grades will all be above a 5.5 (passing)!

Biology, Gym, and English are tomorrow, followed by what I think will be two hours of homework at school in order to make my thirty-three hours per week quota. Tomorrow also is the announcement of who is playing at A State Of Trance 550! I can barely wait for March!

One thing I didn't mention in yesterday's post was that there was a fire drill during my first hour. Now for me and most kids back in the states this is nothing very interesting but here, it was the first in FOUR YEARS! It was quite funny to see how absolutely nonchalant everyone was a d the teachers just did their best to keep their class in one relative location. This is made possible by students being more responsible than in the states, and going to their teacher first before friends. On the way back in there was a firework or more noise bomb on the side of the path. When it when off (and it was loud) you could see everyone jump a few inches.

A 6 in Biology! Also where was my head?

So I had a pleasant surprise today! I have a 6 in Biology which is amazing since i was expecting a 3 or 4! So that was a real highlight of my day, this is subject to change after an oral test next week though. My elation dimmed a bit when I went to fencing this evening, and everything felt wrong. My footwork, blade-work, and tactics were all off. I was just having just one of those days, where nothing gets processed. So that was a bit disappointing.

Sorry this post is so short, I didn't manage my time very well today. Tomorrow will be a post of a normal length.

Ik snap de weer hier niet!

One week is cold and everyday mist, the other it's clear skies and warm. This is almost as bad a a year or two ago back in the states when the weather would drastically change each day, at least this is by week.

Today in school was physics along with Nederlands and homeroom.

This evening I watch the very short concert put on by deadmau5 in London where the set was an entire skyscraper with visuals projected on it! As one google+ user put it, "too much effort for too little show." I agree but it was still a good little party, and I don't think anyone is topping that visual display for awhile!

Tomorrow brings math, physics, biology, and to wrap up the school day Nederlands. In the evening is Fencig!

A Moment Too Many

SO...no lacrosse today because I failed to get out of my bed when my first alarm went off. Then I fell back asleep by accident and slept for another hour and twenty minutes. Thus missing my trains and because Nijmegen is so far away all the other trains were too late to arrive at the game. So to make up for the lack of exercise I went running again, for almost an hour. My right leg was getting tired and my knee also, so I headed home instead of pressing forward. It's really too bad I screwed up this morning, I can only make sure I am there next week.

The weather is continuing to change with huge gusts of wind and a but of rain. But it is warm, warm for winter that is.

Normal week next week, or so I predict. Is everyone recovered from Thanksgiving?

Warmer Wind, With Rain

All day the wind has been gusting across Hoorn, rattling the house and moving the doors. But it is no longer cold! It is now very comfortable fall weather, but as I am typing this the rain is begining and so I am looking forward for another wet game day!

Homework is complete for the most part, just a few questions to ask when I get back to school, and so all and all today has been a restful day.

Tineke is in Groningen to visit Kees and Wouter, and Jan had tennis. Jelle and I didn't really do too much today.

Congratulations to NASA for a succesful launch of the Mars Science Laboratory named Curiosity!

Ahh, its Friday.

One week back, one week further. This weekend will be the first back into the swing of things, with home work on Saturday, and lacrosse on Sunday. Homework will entail biology, and chemistry. I was able to finish the rest of my homework during my five break hours today.
I also received my English grade for my test and because there was a section that was translating I missed a good chunk and ended with a 7.2 which normally is a decent grade. Next time it will be a 9 or 10 I think.

Now that the mist has gone away, the air is a little bit warmer. Probably because there isn't so much water in the air, but either way its nicer. But, on Sunday in Nijmegen there will be rain...again...WOOHOO! It wouldn't be Dutch lacrosse though without getting a bit wet.

Well see what happens tomorrow, doing something wise, but until then, good night and enjoy those Black Friday steals if you're state side!

Thanksgiving Via Skype!

Its thanksgiving in America and some of the Cohen family has gathered to commence in what has become "The Cohen Family Thanks Giving Conversation" which is also known as; "The Annual Strangest Thanksgiving conversation in America". This is the time of year that we Cohens sit down and discuss all the things that normal families would never imagine could be a conversation let alone a Thanksgiving conversation. We pride ourselves in out topic variety and rarity while the entire time laughing hysterically at things that really shouldn't be funny. But that us for you and, to top it all off we end the night by eating another Turkey. But this time its made of sugar and cake... the entire process is part rocket science and part luck. Trying to get all the pieces together and to not eat everything is a challenge! Here is the construction process!

I had the opprotunity to join my crazy family via Skype, and the crazy-ness has already begun. I wish I were there to join in with the Dinner conversation, but I will have to wait for next year to do so!

With it being Thanksgiving I want to say how thankful I am to have the opportunity to be living here in the Netherlands and to have such amazing friends, without whom I would be nowhere and would still be speaking English. To also have the great fortune of living with a host family whom are not strangers and instead are close friends of our family, I probably wouldn't be in Hoorn if it wasn't for them, and I would have been able to speak even less Nederlands on the first day of school if I hadn't be pushed by Tineke and Jan. So another great thank you to them!

With that I bid you all a good thanksgiving, and good Tryptophan induced sleep!

I Was In The News!

So I don't know why it took me this long but I was in the local new paper! Well my fencing club was, and the article was decent for someone that doesn't really know fencing. I wasn't the focus of the photo, instead it was two other guys but I was in the background and according to my coach in perfect form, rather than the the two most forward members.

In other news the mist left, came back, and then left again to only return. I also got a few of my grades back. I did not fair very well, even with the expectations lowered because of the language difference. I still made a silly mistakes here or failed to remember something. I also realized how little information I am absorbing from my books. I know it will get better as my Dutch improves, but for now it's a blow to my confidence now.

Well, I have a bit of homework to do before I go to bed. I will report to you all tomorrow!

Its Finally Raining!

Well after days of mist, the rain has finally begun clearing away some of the mist! There was even ice forming on the bushes out side of my school! Also at school we had one hour off because Physics was canceled. So Meik, Martin, Jack, and I went to take a look at a new supermarket that had opened up near the school, which was famous for its low prices. But were were not prepared for how absolutely rock bottom the prices were! Just one example was that we bought four chocolate croissants for one Euro!

In other news my schedule is back to normal, and I am back in the pattern of things. The test week really messes with things.

Apparently I was in the newspaper a little while back without knowing it for Fencing. It wasn't about me, but about my club and I was in the photo! According to my coach I was in perfect form too! I will look for the image!

I also have come across two great videos via Google +. One from NASA again and another from a friend! Check them out!

This one from NASA is another stunning display of our beautiful home, with music by Peter Gabriel:

Time Lapse From Space - Literally. The Journey Home. from Fragile Oasis on Vimeo.

And this is a cute story of how a toy took a cross country roadtrip:

Address Is Approximate from The Theory on Vimeo.

I hope you enjoy them, as much as I did!

The Mist Is Everywhere

Those of you who are followers of international news may have heard of the fog that is covering most of northern Europe. Flights out of Amsterdam, London, and other major cities. Hoorn isn't an exception, other than that it doesn't have an airport. The mist seems to be here to stay, and its thick and cold. I don't think anyone will be stating out the school windows anymore because the view is even more boring than the teacher!

Tomorrow is the first day back into the normal school schedule after all the tests. I haven't looked ahead yet but I will a little later. I know that for the next test week, I will be able to worry about Nederlands less and more about the classes. Tineke said I will also be more accustomed to how the books are formatted and also the tests, which I agree with. My Nederlands is already much better, and I know that it can only improve. So with that said, it's time to get back into the school grind!

An Alien View

The entire day, Hoorn and good portions of Holland were covered by a thick and ever present layer of mist. Out of my window I could only see the next street over before the mist replaced the houses. When there is mist, it makes biking quite interesting. You are biking through a cloud, and so by the time you reach school or your destination, your hair is wet, and your jacket looks as if it had rained. The scary part is that when you are biking on the road, the drivers and other bikers can only see as far as you can.

The whole day reminded me of when I traveled t Iceland years ago and we landed in thick fog and all you could see were the barren volcanic rocks next to the runway.

I have been studying for my last test of the test week. It is physics and as I have said for the rest I hope I do well. And I must make sure I go to bed on time.

Now I don't want to make this political, but I want to show how much I respect the students of UC Davis.

Here is what happened during the day


And here is what happened during the night

Gefeliciteerd!

Congratulations to me for failing at making pancakes this morning. I don't know what I was doing wrong but it was something and the pancake gods didn't like me. So what meant to be an American pancake breakfast, turned into a "pancake" breakfast. Fortunately they still tasted good!

Congratulations Nico and Kieth, my town teen twin brothers. I made a mistake in including their birthday is yesterday's post, saying it was then. But it is today that they are thirteen years old. They went paint-balling for their birthday which seems to have become a tradition after I started. I hope the welts don't last too long guys!

Also congratulations again to Merle! Welcome to the club of sixteen years old! Your party was awesome and I know I had a great time and it looked like everyone else did too!

I am dead tired from Merle's party and it is quarter to three. It's time I went to bed.

100 Days! 101 Posts!

Although this is technically the hounded and first post, but its my hundredth day of blogging! This also means its my 99th day of being in the Netherlands. To add to the numbers my 2 brothers are 13 years old today; I had 2 tests today (sort of); its the best number day of the week, 5; and what else...oh 37 days until Christmas? I don't think there are any more relevant numbers today. My two test were Chemistry and my English Oral. Chemistry went OK, and the English...you can guess.

But the best part about today is that i have all weekend to prepare for my physics test on Monday. That will be my last test, until Wednesday which is Computers and Technology. Today I also found a rare sight. There were roses blooming along the path that I take Louis down for walks. This struck me as very odd because its been freezing here. When I mentioned this to Tineke she said that there had also been Ducklings born! Seems like the early cold with the oddly warm week before confused many animals and plants.

Biking Through A Cloud

Hoorn was blanketed by a think layer of fog. Biking to and from school left you wet and your hair frozen. My English test went well, unlike my ANW test that didn't go as great. Tomorrow is Chemistry and I am hoping to do well. That is why this is so late, I have been studying my brains out for this one.

I also activated my OV Chip Card today with Tineke, so now I wont be paying so heavily for my train trips. Which is always nice.


In gaming news, Minecraft comes out tomorrow, and I have begin playing Skyrim for anyone out there who knows the Elder Scrolls series. There are no faults in Skyrim at all, unless you include how hard it is to stop playing.

I need to get some sleep for my test tomorrow, so I shall bid you good night.

Restful Day

So restful that I nearly forgot to blog!

Well, today I had no tests so I relaxed. Alternating between, studying for ANW or chemistry, reading, or playing on the computer. So it was a productive day in the real world and virtual world too. I even wrapped up a few projects I had been working on in Minecraft (in doing so I made about 5 more colossal projects, I just need to find graph paper).

Tomorrow is English, and ANW. I hope my reading is up to par for ANW, and im not too sure about my English test. We shall have to see how that goes.

No videos today, I didn't find one (and by that I never looked, sorry).

Beautiful Earth

Only my Nederlands tests was today, and I actually was able to read the story which we had to answer questions from. Thankfully it wasn't a spelling test. The story was about the exploration of using Spider Silk in materials that need unsurpassed strength but also need flexibility like cables on a bridge. Then we hung out in the mess hall/cafeteria/ eating area/ but also a stage/ room/ what ever you want to call it, until I went home to study.

After studying for a good amount of time and not getting too far, I went on a run. And this time I went far. My time was 1:08:04, from front door to front door. I was running at an almost constant pace of which I'm guessing is around 6:00-6:10 minute mile, so I did nearly ten miles and in kilometers that's sixteen some! Later tonight I have fencing as well, so I'm not too sure that it was a good idea but I feel great right now. My knee feels fine too for anyone wondering, I can't say how it will feel later though.

Time for more studying and more amazing films from Viemo below!

NASA has given the world a magnificent view of our home, the Earth. It is truly amazing how so many beings, large and small, live in near harmony on a single ball of rock floating through the vacuum of space. Filmed by the ISS crew, Mother Earth shows of her beauty, and power. Start both the videos at the same time (for the YouTube you will have to wait a few seconds until music begins so take that into account, also its an ambient Deamau5 piece not bass thumping progressive house), turn the sound off of for the Viemo video, and enjoy (another tip: click the HD to see it in HD on Viemo)! Oh leave names of locations and time in the comments for a prize!


Earth | Time Lapse View from Space, Fly Over | NASA, ISS from Michael König on Vimeo.

First Two Tests & Flight Of The Frenchies

My tests could have gone better, but they also could have been much worse. I owe a HUGE thank you to all my friends, family, host family, and teachers. For bringing my Dutch to the level that it is today. With out their help I would be bombing these tests, and not being capable of putting in a good effort. Not to mention, I wouldn't be able to socialize and fit in as well.

Today was only Biology and Math, I managed in Biology. What held me back was the language, because I sometimes didn't know what the question was asking for or I couldn't read the story/experiment that the questions refereed to. Math I had a good time with, except for a few problems that I had been having problems with already. I need to ask more questions because I can see that my timidness to is hurting my grades.

Tomorrow is a quick test of Nederlands in the morning and then I will be studying my brains out for Physics and Chemistry. Maybe relax for a little with friends before hand though.

The weather is still bitterly cold, but amazingly dry. Which I would much rather than cold and wet, as I don't think its cold enough for snow.

Well with that I want to share a video of two of the most insane men on earth. Check this out:

Study Study Study

My whole day other than a few hours of chilling with Max, was consumed by my studying for the test week. Tineke and Jan were away to the birthday party of Jan's Aunt, who turned 70 years old today.

The weather is still beautiful, I wish I could have gone out to take pictures. Im sorry there is nothing else to really announce.

Wish me luck with the tests!

STUDY AND SINTERKLAAS!!!

It is Sinterklaas tonight in Holland and Sinterklaas visited every town in Holland by boat, accompanied by his helpers! All the boys and girls have left out their shoes with carrots in them. The carrots are for Sinterklaas' horse and then he places the gifts in the shoes. This happens a few times depending on the family.

While all the younger kids were out trying to see Sinterklaas, I and I know most of my friends were busy studying. I went over to Lotte's home to study with her, because I needed better explanations of biology and math. Her youngest sister went out onto the lake with her parents to meet the boat. I stayed for dinner and then returned home. I now have a much better grasp on biology and the math just solidified my ability.

Tomorrow is more studying and I really hope to score decent ciphers on these tests. But for now a little rest will do well.

11/11/11 11:11

Well special meaning or not today was the eleventh of Novermber, 2011! Now I hope everyone made their wishes, and had a good day. In the mess hall there was a small celebration marked by a count down, led by Steven, and capped off by two guns of confetti, and the popping of a bottle of bubbling cider (N.A Cider)! I have to say those confetti guns sure carry a lot! I also got a little cider on me because the student who popped it was standing behind me.

The rest of the day was uneventful. Filled with studying, and class. Though I did finish Fall Of Giants in English. Once home I took a much needed rest before getting back to work. I also had the chance to send a few more emails. I'm really happy to be getting back in touch with people though email and Skype. If you want to ask questions of what life here is like, shoot over an email to gregoryrobben@gmail.com or grobbin95 on skype!

This weekend is all about studying and will be mind intensive. But after the test week, if the weather is good, I want to organize a pick up game of Frisbee on Saturday. Lets see if I survive the test week first!

Bonus: here a beautiful picture of the Adirondacks in fall, I saw courtesy of National Geographic:

With Tanager Loge I have climbed the center and left most Mountains