I wish it could be tulips… but we’ve still got a few more months to endure before then!
I knew that my return to ‘Free’ would be a harsh re-awakening, and sure enough, there were icicles inside. At least I had remembered to drain the water pump and empty the fresh water tanks to avoid rupturing them. With all the various systems anti-freezed up, for once there was nothing too much to deal with apart from having to expel the damp with ‘Harry’. ‘Bilbo’ could only look on with sympathy as if to say:
“I’d help you if I could, it’s just…….” Well you already know that story, huh?
And so as ever, I will try to breath hope and soul into everything, and I have to highlight the beauty of the ice crystals I found on the inside of the wheelhouse when I returned. It reminds me of being a small child in South Shields before central heating. Those old Catherine Cookson type houses were freezing and it took some warm-hearted Geordie humour to get through those winters. So what’s an Amsterdam freeze?
As in my favourite motto: ‘This too shall pass’, so Spring will come and my heart will leap with the thought of further voyages. But for now, it has to be experiencing the cruel beauty of this time of the year and being thankful to breath the air of freedom.
However, all has not been plain sailing. I had to say goodbye to my faithful ipad, Polly. I foolishly left her in a phone booth in one of the bellhuis kiosks. Of course I returned frantically five minutes later… gone. Ah well, such is life, and Amsterdam is no different from any other city. One moment’s absent mindedness is all it takes. I suppose it all boils down to that famous old Zen saying… “Shit happens!” And it certainly did this time!
So here from Amsterdam I wish you all blessings and warmth… But don’t forget to enjoy, respect and marvel at the beautiful harshness of the winter. Don’t let this opportunity pass in hoping for the return of the sun. Let it all be, for it is all wonderful.
A Viking Saga 
Warmest hugs to you Poppy. Almost finished your book, absolutely brilliant. I could read it in one sitting if I didn’t have other stuff to do.
big love and hugs xxxxxxxxxx
My dear friend… thank you so much for your lovely comments! You have made me a published author by buying my book, even though I’d have given it to you free. Hope all is well with you, my viking sister! Px
Farewell Polly. hope the person who took her have some sort of karma won’t say what sort, as an old song states “what will be will be” perhaps this has happened for a reason and you were not having a senior moment. have you put a poster up you never know.
Glad Free is ok and only very cold and iced up – if only you could burn wood. will await for next adventure and I too have now started on the Eagle.
Cx
Hi Chris… I’ve always been a bit dopey! My fault and no excuses. All big cities are the same and most people would jump at the chance. I have disabled her on line so she won’t work anyway.
Hope you enjoy the book! Px
Hi Poppy,
Really enjoying reading your posts – sorry to hear about Polly the Ipad.. The photo of the icicles memorable, stay warm and safe knowing there are those of us who are thinking good things for you. All the best – Carmen.x
Hello Carmen,
How are you? Yes, one moment’s lack of concentration… that’s all it takes! Thanks for your feedback. It’s special to know you are reading it all!
Blessings, Poppy x
http://viooz.eu/movies/14107-johan-falk-spelets-regler-2012.html. Have you seen this Poppy? Bunch of Swedish movies on this site for you. 🙂 check it out.
Beutiful pics of the marina and boat. And on you of course. Lovely
You are sweet… thank you so much!!! I love your site… so different and curious!
I mean, I have absolutely no clue how to run a blog but I am glad you like it. 🙂
Yes you do!!! It’s brilliant! By the way my omafiets is called ‘Gretel’!
Gretel is in good hands!!!!
Enjoy using her as long as you like!
Thanks!!!!