Happy New Year!
On New Year’s Eve in my native Holland (properly called The Netherlands) people go out into the streets — no matter what the weather — and set off fireworks at the stroke of midnight. Then for those who have the energy, the fireworks and party continue.
Sadly, since I lead a wandering expat life, I have not been able to join in the fun for years. I now hibernate in West Virginia, USA, but I have many fond childhood memories of being out so late at night and watching the fun. (And yes, there are some nuts who do stupid things and people get hurt.)
The above photo was taken on a rainy, Dutch January 1, 2013, but rain won’t keep the Dutch from much.
Neither does the cold because on January 1 many put on swim suits and take the New Year’s Plunge, the Nieuwjaarsduik. In the frigid ocean, or whatever body of water that is handy.
This year a record 40 thousand nuts jumped into the freezing sea and lakes, which proves there are more crazy Dutchmen every year. Trust me, I’ve never taken that particular plunge, although I’ve taken others, possibly more risky.
Enough already.
May 2013 bring you all the health, happiness, love and adventure you’ll be able to deal with!
