Four seasons in one day

This past Sunday was one of those typical Dutch ones. I remember being amazed when I first came here from South Africa that we could have four seasons in one day, just like the Crowded House song. What surprised me even more was that it happened quite regularly, meaning we could have brilliant sunshine, torrential rain, a gale and snow within the space of 24 hours. 

In South Africa, the weather tended to be much more stable and predictable. Here in the Netherlands, you never know what you’re going to get next, especially at this time of year.

Yesterday was like that. We had a lovely morning walking in beautiful sunshine, but by 3 p.m. it had started snowing and it came down heavily. Daughter 2, Mo, had been to visit and headed back home just in time. This was what it looked like at 3.30 p.m.

 

Then, this morning it was raining, blowing a hoolie and miserable; we even had some hail, so dog walking seemed destined to be a quick dash between the showers. Surprisingly, the weather improved, so we managed not only a decent walk, but also a trip to the harbour to check on the boats. That was just as well, because our Hennie Ha had slipped her mooring in the gale and was floating across her berth ready to take off. Fortunately, the sun was shining again by this time and fixing her back in place was done without complaint or cold. It was a lesson learned, though. Our new mooring will need some rethinking.

Ten minutes later, we were checking on Vereeniging and the rain started again, without any warning. Well at least the wet stuff helped to clean the tarpaulin, but we naturally kept it as brief as possible. As I said, the Dutch weather is unpredictable, even fickle! Zoe loves cold, dry weather, but she’s not a fan of having wet paws…just like her mum. Here she is looking relieved after having her fluff dried.

Of course, I know why the weather’s not great. It’s Carnival time here in our area, and it’s guaranteed that there will be rain, cold, and anything else the sky can throw at us during these festivities. I never quite understand why anyone wants to participate, but there you go. It’s very popular and the costumes people put together are amazing! Wonderful colours and zany outfits. I saw a man today dressed up as a pony and rider. I still can’t quite figure out how that worked.

 

Enjoy the rest of you week, allemaal, and I hope your weather’s not too bad. It seems to have been extreme for so many people, and there’s been so much damage. Take care until next time.