Dale's Daily Planet

Premiere Bloemfontein

2012-01-26T13:40:00.001Z

Thursday, 26-January-2012 - Gemert - Fun-on-Wheels skating friend Johan van Zelderen made his debut as Bloemfontein singer at cafe and restaurant Dientje.

All that I Own (3:11)

Ron's Birthday

2012-01-22T21:16:00.008Z

Sunday, 22-January-2012 - Uden - I was invited to celebrate volleyball teammate Ron's birthday. Teammate Hans was practicing a new song on the guitar. pics (5)

Biking to Helmond Market

2012-01-21T21:09:00.000Z

Saturday, 21-January-2012 - Helmond - Rode my mountainbike to the Helmond Market today. Said hello to Marij, John, Gilbert, Luis, and their neighbors (pic). I was good for 45 km. pics (26)

Low-cholesterol Pancakes

2012-01-06T14:13:00.029Z

Friday, 6-January, 2012 - Veghel - Last November, I promised Cody (first cousin twice removed) I'd give him the recipe for my pancakes. Well, here it is below. My Aunt Bertha taught me how to fold beaten egg whites after the batter was mixed. Until today, I used an electric beater. I didn't realize how effective a whisk (garde in Dutch) is. My cousin MaryAnn simply uses a fork. She teaches using human energy whenever practical.
pics (21)

Pancakes
Yield: 8 large pancakes (approx 7-in dia)
Cholesterol per pancake when served with margarine and strawberry jam or maple syrup: 2.5 mg.

Ingredient, Unit of Measure, Qty
Baking soda tsp 2
Egg white each 2
Flour cup 2
Milk cup 1
Oil, vegetable
Salt tsp 1
Sugar tsp 2
Water cup 1

Directions
1. Separate egg whites and yolks, and set aside.
2. Sift flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Add milk and water, leaving out egg yolks (see note 1). Mix well (whisk or beater), adding water as needed to thin batter.
4. Beat (or whisk) egg whites in separate bowl, whites at room temperature until stiff.
5. Fold in egg whites to make a fluffy batter (see link).
6. Heat a lightly-oiled griddle (or large frying pan) over medium-high heat (see note).
7. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/2 cup for each pancake. Brown on both sides, and serve hot.

http://video.about.com/gourmetfood/Fold-Egg-Whites-Into-Batter.htm

Note 1: Leave out egg yolks for a low-cholesterol meal. Each egg yolk contains 200 mg of cholesterol!
Note 2: The pancake cooking temperature is approx 375 Deg F (190 Deg C). When you let a drop of water fall onto a hot pancake griddle, the water drop will dance around and stay in its droplet shape while it skitters across the surface.http://EzineArticles.com/4630664
Note 3: The American Heart Association recommends healthy individuals consume less than 300 mg of cholesterol each day. A person with heart disease should eat a low-cholesterol diet and aim at 200 mg of cholesterol daily.http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/PreventionTreatmentofHighCholesterol/Know-Your-Fats_UCM_305628_Article.jsp
Note 4: General cholesterol health information: http://www.siumed.edu/medicine/gim/cholesterol.htm

Getting Ready for Mom's 90th Birthday

2011-11-13T19:55:00.001Z

Sunday, 13-November-2011 - Veghel - My sister-in-law Marlyn asked us to bring a picture of Mom and write a few words about it. These will be used to decorate the house for Mom's 90th birthday on 25-Nov.

link to story behind the pic

Skating to Hellevoetsluis

2011-09-25T09:47:00.004+01:00

Sunday, 25-September-2011, - Rotterdam/Hellevoetsluis - It was a glorius, sunny day. After a nice overdue talk with ex-collegue Harald, I put on my skates and headed to Hellevoetsluis. Katherine and Logan picked me up, and we drove back home. High-time for supper. I was good for 30 km. pics (86). gps-tracked route part 1 part 2

Double Fun-on-Wheels Skating

2011-09-10T09:01:00.003+01:00

Saturday, 10-September-2011 - Veghel - Twin sisters Arianne and Astrid joined us today. We headed for Wijbosch. When we got back we stopped at the Mac for ice cream. Nine skaters--good for 15 km. pics (26)
gps-tracked route

Return Trip to the Netherlands

2011-09-06T00:35:00.008+01:00

Tuesday, 6-September-2011 - Zürich/Eindhoven - We left Zurich around 2330. I got more sleep on the way back. We dropped off Brigitte, Maurice, and Marion at a rest stop near their home where we picked them up. Got back safely to Eindhoven around 0900. Said goodbye to everyone and drove home to Veghel. Thanks to everyone for a great Fun-on-Wheels weekend! Special thanks to the organizers: Henriette, Kees, Marion, Ria, and Toon.
pics album (6) weekend top 50

Monday Night Skate Zürich?

2011-09-05T23:36:00.013+01:00

Monday, 5-September-2011 - Pfäffikon/Einseideln/Zürich - Ria announced that the calf was born about 0300. I couldn't get to sleep after wakening for someone's snoring episode. On my way to the toilet, I saw that the morning milking had just started. I watched for awhile before going back to bed. It was still raining when we got up. After breakfast, we thanked our hosts and headed for the Einseideln Monastery for some sightseeing. We then drove back to the youth hostel in Zurich for the Monday Night Skate. It had stopped raining when we got there. We were on our own for a few hours--we'd meet back at 1730 to find out if the skate would take place. The sun came out after a few minutes--my hopes started rising. Marij and I found a nice place to eat lunch. pics (129)
clips
Morning Milking at Lützelhof part 1 (19 sec) part 2 (22 sec)
Monday Night Skate part 1 (21 sec) part 2 (39 sec) part 3 (19 sec)
gps-tracked route part 1 part 2

Swiss Countryside Skating

2011-09-05T21:00:00.014+01:00

Sunday, 4-September-2011 - Zürich/Pfäffikon - After breakfast, we headed for the village of Bollingen, about 50 km from Zürich, to meet our hosts and and guides, Ernst and Prisca, for the morning skate. During the lunch break, we got a downpour that didn't quit. That ended our skating for the day. We then headed to the Lützelhof dairy farm in Pfäffikon. This is where we would stay the night. Had a good meal and fun afterwards. During the evening we found out that a calf would be born that night. Helene and Ria stayed up to watch the birth. pics (297)
clip skater with the bell
gps-tracked route

Skating in Zürich

2011-09-03T20:43:00.007+01:00

Saturday, 3-September-2011 - Zürich - We arrived around 0930 at the youth hostel where we would spend the night. We put on our skates and headed for the lake front near the center of the city. Jürg, Monday Night Skate Team Leader, was our guide. pics (269)
Train Staton Music clips part 1 part 2
gps-tracked route part 1 part 2

Fun-on-Wheels Zürich

2011-09-02T20:28:00.006+01:00

Friday, 2-September-2011 - Eindhoven - Marij and I picked up Bep on our way to the meeting point in Eindhoven: Willy de Kruyff Touring Cars. Twenty-eight Fun-on-Wheels skaters and family members boarded the bus at 2330. Piet was our driver for the weekend. We were on our way to Zürich! pics (12)

Boekel Skating

2011-08-30T09:31:00.001+01:00

Tuesday, 30-August-2011 - Boekel - Took a nap after getting back from Rotterdam. After supper, drove to Boekel. The evenings are getting shorter, but the sunsets are none the less spectacular. Thirteen skaters--good for 23 km. pics (22) gps-tracked route

Fun-on-Wheels Sunday

2011-08-28T20:46:00.007+01:00

Sunday, 28-August-2011 - Oss - Marij chose to go to a car boot sale in Geffen today with a friend, and she suggested I go skating, which I glady did--a wonderful windy skate. We started in Oss, crossed the Grave bridge, skated along the dike. After the coffee break, we crossed over the Ravenstein bridge, passed through the Maashorst, and returned to the starting point. Thirteen skaters and one solex rider--good for 37 km. pics (163) gps tracked route part 1 part 2 bike ride home

Electroworld Skating 2011--100 km?

2011-08-20T21:00:00.011+01:00

Saturday, 20-August-2011 - Boekel - Perfect weather for Electroworld skating. I signed up for 100 km, but had doubts if I should press myself. I could always stop and ride with the safety bus, I thought. 135 skaters started at 1000. Shortly after the 60 km rest stop, I felt the pace picking up to around 25 km/hr--I had to work harder to keep up. Maybe it was psychological. When I heard someone behind me say that "now this is a good pace", I thought I couldn't make it to the next stop about 15 km farther. I punched out of the pack at Langenboom with the intention to hop in the safety bus, but I rolled to a stop and sat down--too far away to be noticed. It was a long 22 km-skate back to Boekel on my own. To my surprise, I got back just in time to take finish photos of those who completed the 100 km. Thanks to all the skaters and volunteers for a great day. pics (242)
my gps tracked route
part 2
part 3
part 4

Skating to Postel and Back--105 km

2011-08-18T12:03:00.025+01:00

Saturday, 13-August-2011 - Oirschot/Postel - 16 skaters (aschwin, astrid, bart, carin, dale, elles, frans, henriette, jan, louis, manuela, marc, marion, pieter, ronald, and yvonne), one bicyclist (christine), and one solex rider (toon). Pieter Smits was again this year our host and guide. Predominantly a wet adventure, but everyone was up to the challenge. A swimming pool and barbecue were waiting for us when we got back--105 km. Super group, super day! (Photo Marc Molenaar). group photo
my pics (260) christine's pics (2) marc's pics (13) bearing cleaning(15-aug) (35) gps tracked route part 1 part 2

Bicycling to Helmond

2011-08-06T11:56:00.001+01:00

Saturday, 6-August-2011 - Helmond - Rode my bike to the Helmond open-air market. It's in the center of town near 't Speelhuis theater (photo). At the market, I saw the Vrijhof Vishandel team: Gerard, Gilbert, John, Luis, Marij, Nel, and Vivian. I was good for 45 km.

pics (97)

Death of a Salesman

2011-07-20T19:46:00.011+01:00

Wednesday, 20-Jul-2011 - Amelith - I helped bury my brother Virgil today. I mourn his passing, but find peace knowing that he is now with the Lord. I gained strength from all the love and positive energy around me while I was in Amelith. Virgil passed away on Friday, 15-June in a tragic accident. Although Virgil was in a confused state of mind these last weeks and months, and at other times in his adult life, I have fond memories of him as a brother and a friend. I will continue to miss him.
accident
obituary
city rescue mission
remembering

Go Skate Kampina

2011-07-10T15:23:00.004+01:00

Sunday, 10-July-2011 - Boxtel - Go Skate Kampina, that's the name of the route we took today. Helene treated us to pie at the coffee break. Her birthday is tomorrow. Seventeen Fun-on-Wheels skaters--good for 26 km. Did some skate maintenance when I got back home. pics (123) gps-tracked route

Thursday Evening Skating in Den Bosch

2011-07-07T15:31:00.003+01:00

Thursday, 7-July-2011 - Dinther/Den Bosch - Rode my bike to Dinther meeting point. Ad took this picture during our coffee break at the Verkade Fabriek in Den Bosch. Nine skaters--good for 30 km. pics (79)
skating route
bike route

Boekel Evening Skating

2011-07-05T14:38:00.005+01:00

Tuesday, 5-July-2011 - Boekel - Tonnie came to see us off. He was still recovering from a broken shoulder. We skated 27 km before we took a break. It was a smooth route--super skating. 17 skaters--good for 37 km.

pics (55)

gps-tracked route

Weiss Family 4th of July Barbecue

2011-07-04T14:59:00.001+01:00

Monday, 4-July-2011 - Veghel - It's Independence Day in the United States. Katherine, Aaron, Logan, Chris, and Marrit joined us for the Weiss Family 4th of July Barbecue. Pics (19)

15 Year Anniversary Fun-on-Wheels

2011-07-03T16:04:00.008+01:00

Sunday, 3-July-2011 - Oirschot - Today, it was "eten en skaten" (eating and skating) to celebrate 15 years of Fun-on-Wheels. 31 skaters--good for 56 km.
pics (291)
gps-tracked route--part 1
video clips
part 1 (17 sec)
part 2 (27 sec)
part 3 (38 sec)

Skating after the Storm

2011-06-30T15:49:00.001+01:00

Thursday, 30-June-2011 - Dinther - On Tuesday, a storm came over this area. we found evidence along the route (photo). We took a break in Rosmalen. Seven skaters--good for 30 km. pics (52)
skating route part 1

Roll Eerder Monday Evening Skating

2011-06-28T16:02:00.010+01:00

Monday, 27-June-2011 - Oirschot - Wasn't going to be able to skate Tuesday evening in Boekel, so I joined the Roll Eerder (roll earlier) Monday evening skate group. This evening, Pieter (photo) was our guide. We met at his place in Oirshot--start time: 1930. It was still very warm--it got up to more than 30 Deg C during the afternoon. Had our coffee break at Oisterwijk around 2045. Before we left, most everyone put on reflection gear and running light. Had to patch up an eyebrow of one of the group, due to a fall about 5km from home. A nearby resident gave her a lift to the emergengy room for some stitches. We got back around 2250. After an evaluation along with some joke-telling, we said good night around 2400. All-in-all: smooth skating, warm weather, good company--a great skate. 19 skaters--good for 39km.
gps tracked route
pics (80)

Boekel Skating

2011-06-21T12:20:00.004+01:00

Tuesday, 21-June-2011 - Boekel - It was nearly 1900--time to start our weekly workout. After a few weeks absence, Gerard had his skates on and described this evening's route. We were going to Helmond. He lead the second group, but after only 2km his knee gave him trouble, and he turned back. The remaining 15 skaters were good for 34km. pics (87)
gps tracked route

Father's Day Flea Market

2011-06-19T16:04:00.005+01:00

Sunday, 19-June-2011 - Veghel - Rainy and very windy, but a lot of fun. Had to tie down our stand's tarp to a traffic sign to not get blown away. Met the daughter of Veghel born painter Wim van de Nieuwenhuizen (1939-1985). Was captured by his work (photo). pics (53)

Logan is Born

2011-06-07T18:48:00.011+01:00

Tuesday, 7-June-2011 - Rotterdam - Logan Anthony Theodore was born at 2113. Katherine, Logan, and Aaron are doing fine. I'm really proud of all three of them.

Vat-Oe-Fiets 2011

2011-06-02T11:44:00.007+01:00

Thursday, 2-June-2011 - Veghel - It's a tradition in Veghel: the annual Vat-Oe-Fiets (Hemelvaart) Accension Day bicycle tour. Chris had a baseball game planned, so I went myself. I took the 25 km route to be back in time to go to Rotterdam with Marij to see Katherine and Aaron. There we had a Mexican dinner at the Amigo restaurant near the city hall. pics (97)
't leven is goed in't brabantse land (life is good in Brabant country)
harmonica
text

Boekel Skating under Darkened Skies

2011-05-31T16:38:00.002+01:00

Tuesday, 31-May-2011 - Boekel - Gerard was still recovering from a knee injury, so he sent us off--Kees leading the fast group, and Bart leading the intermediate group. Twenty skaters-good for 20km. pics (34)

Memorial Day Monday

2011-05-30T15:18:00.000+01:00

Monday, 30-May-2011 - It's Memorial Day in the United States. I took it easy in the backyard. On my way to the grocery store, helped an 80-year old man who fell from his bicycle. pics (19)

Saturday Skating to Keldonk

2011-05-28T16:57:00.003+01:00

Saturday, 28-May-2011 - Veghel - Washed the outside windows on the attic floor (photo). Nearly all Fun-on-Wheels skaters were in Alphen aan de Rijn for a skate weekend, so I skated alone to Keldonk and back--good for 16km. pics (58)

Dinther Skating

2011-05-26T15:57:00.005+01:00

Thursday, 26-may-2011 - Nistelrode - The sky was darkening. I wasn't sure if the rain would pass around us. This evening we hopped in Magda's car and drove to Nistelrode, this evening's starting point. We headed for Schaijk. Wim lost a wheel, but skated to the coffeebreak a the 3 Heere without it. We came back through the Herpse Bos nature area. Seven skaters--good for 25km. pics (66)

Boekel Skating

2011-05-24T15:53:00.003+01:00

Tuesday, 24-May-2011 - Boekel - This evening we headed for de Rips. 25 skaters--good for 28 km. pics (70)

Blauw-Geel Soccer

2011-05-22T19:31:00.004+01:00

Sunday, 22-May-2011 - Veghel - Marij and I went to watch Gilbert play soccer. A selection of Blauw-Geel champion team players got to play against the first team. A Turkish team tournament was also being held on the other fields. Delicious food made the day complete. Pics (91)

Inspiring Furniture from Firewood

2011-05-21T20:58:00.010+01:00

Saturday, 21-May-2011 - Loosbroek - This morning I had the pleasure of meeting Rik Ruigrok (photo), innovator and owner of Herso. He and his team have a passion for turning waste wood into beautiful furniture. "A work of art is hidden under each table surface." He is commited to taking good care of our planet. He truly practices what he preaches. It's not just furniture, it's a way of life. I was inspired. Pics (25)

Saturday Skating Fun

2011-05-21T20:39:00.002+01:00

Saturday, 21-May-2011 - Veghel - Today our tour took us by the Kilsdonkse Molen (foto). Four skaters--good for 16km. Pics (45)

Boekel Tuesday

2011-05-17T12:47:00.000+01:00

Tuseday, 17-May-2011 - Boekel - The sky was threatening, but it only shed a few drops before we got back. 27 skaters--good for 26km. pics (30)

Saturday Sligro Skating

2011-05-14T16:42:00.005+01:00

Saturday, 14-May-2011 - Veghel - Did some yardwork in the morning. We headed out against the wind in the direction of Schijndel. Five Fun-on-wheels skaters--good for 23km. pics (90) swaying trees (14 sec)

Skating Around Den Bosch

2011-05-12T16:33:00.002+01:00

Thursday, 12-May-2011 - 's-Hertogenbosch - After meeting at de Toren in Dinther, we drove to Den Dungen to start our tour around the city of 's-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch). Wim planned this super-smooth route. It was dark when we got back. 10 skaters--good for 34km. pics (118)

Den Bosch City Walk

2011-05-11T14:17:00.006+01:00

Wednesday, 11-May-2011 - Veghel/Den Bosch/Uden - We had a nice rain last night. Our new dishwasher would arrive at the dealer today--the old one had served us well the past 15 years. As I was finishing breakfast, Rosan ask me to drive her to appointment in Den Bosch. It would be more than two hours, so I walked around the city to enjoy this bright sunny day. I was fascinated with the color, architecture, and sculpture against the blue, cloud-filled sky. I was amazed when the wings of the dragon (foto) turned red before my eyes--a city bus drove under them. The When we got back home, I found out the dishwasher could be installed this evening. A police helecopter circled above. There had been a helicopter crash and fire nearby. No one got hurt. Drove to Uden to officially close the volleyball season with my Marc's Bar BQ teammates. pics (206)

Boekel Skating

2011-05-10T15:41:00.000+01:00

Tuesday, 10-May-2011 - Boekel - Missed last week, but glad to be back. 25 skaters--good for 25km. pics (73)

Colorful Uden Market

2011-05-09T14:17:00.007+01:00

Monday, 09-May-2011 - Uden - Marij and went to Uden to by material for Katherine's nursery. While we were enjoying a crab salad sandwich from Vrijhof, we met Nel (foto). pics (8)

Sligro Skating

2011-05-07T15:55:00.003+01:00

Saturday, 7-May-2011 - Veghel - Five Fun-on-wheels skaters--good for 19km. pics (56)

Liberation Day Skating in Dinther

2011-05-05T11:33:00.003+01:00

Thursday, 5-May-2011 - Dinther - Elly, Betina, and Wim joined us this evening. The route took us through Mariaheide (foto) on our way to Uden. 11 skaters--good for 29km. pics (46)

Liberation Day

2011-05-05T11:21:00.004+01:00

Thursday, 5-May-2011 - Veghel- Flying the flag at full mast, the Netherlands celebrates the liberation of of the Netherlands from Nazi German occupation during World War II.

After a dental appointment, I rode my bike to the town square to say hello to Marij, who was working at Vrijhof Vishandel at the weekly open-air market. I then rode to the AA-Broeken to see what it was like in springtime. pics (128)

Remembrance Day

2011-05-04T11:14:00.004+01:00

Wednesday, 4-May-2011 - Veghel - It's Rembrance Day in the Netherlands. At 8:00 p.m., two minutes of silence is observed throughout the Netherlands.
remembering

Jubbega

2011-05-03T15:01:00.004+01:00

Tuesday, 3-May-2011 - Veghel/Jubbega - Got up at 0500 to go to Jubbega in Friesland. John had to pickup a rental trailer at de Vries. It was cold riding my bike to meet John. We headed out shortly after 0600. We saw the sun come up as we left Veghel. Got to Jubbega at 0900, and were back in Veghel at 1245. pics (5)

Sunday Afternoon Baseball

2011-05-01T07:35:00.001+01:00

Sunday, 1-May-2011 - Tilburg - A beautiful sunny day. The brisk wind was blowing out to left field. Carribean music was coming from the clubhouse. Today, Marij and I went to Tilburg to see Chris and Dudley play baseball. The Yellow Rangers were hosting the Vos Cardinals. Chris had just finish playing a game with Heren 3 (Mens 3) in Boxtel. I met Chris in the dugout. He was a reserve player for this game. It was the bottom of the first. When the Rangers took the field, I spoke to Dudley in their dugout. He was recovering from a hamstring injury. We sat in the sun on the Rangers side of the field. It was a high-scoring, exciting game. My thoughts took me back to when I played and coached myself. The score ended up at 8-13 for the Cardinals. I left with great respect for both teams. pics (142)

Fun-on-Wheels Skating on Queen's Day

2011-04-30T10:41:00.001+01:00

Saturday, 30-April-2011 - Veghel - Sunny and windy. Ine joined us today. The route today came right by our house. The fire department was busy clearing the bike path of a blown-over willow tree. My flag wasn't the only causulty today. Five skaters--good for 16 km. pics (62)

Windy Queen's Day

2011-04-30T09:13:00.001+01:00

Saturday, 30-April-2011 - Thorn/Weert/Veghel - It was Koninginnedag! Put out the flag, but wasn't sure if the flagstaff holder could take the wind today. Watched the Queen go to Thorn and Weert. Our neighbor Tineke came to tell us that the flag had broken loose. Took it down, and finished a second screen for Katherine. Pics (27)

Just Wed--Wil and Kate

2011-04-29T08:43:00.011+01:00

Friday, 29-April-2011 - London - Watched Wil and Kate get married on BBC 1. Afterwards while making an insect screen for Katherine's house in Rotterdam, saw a pair of pigeons on my backyard fence. Will Wil and Kate (now Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge) stay together as long as these two love birds?
pics (72)
JU5T WED

Dinther Skating

2011-04-28T10:59:00.002+01:00

Thursday, 28-April-2011 - Dinther - Got some very welcome rain, just enough to cover the bottom of the rain barrel. Did some errands around the house, before biking to Dinther to go skating. I kept checking the weather radar to see if rain coming from the east would go around us--it did. turned out to be a wonderful sunny evening. Rita joined us at the de Toren meeting place. Eight skaters--good for 24 km.
pics (42)

Boekel Skating

2011-04-26T10:25:00.001+01:00

Tuesday, 26-April-2011 - Boekel - Rode to Jan's place on my bike. Took some pictures while Jan was getting ready. 25 skaters--good for 22 km. pics (58)

Easter Barbecue

2011-04-25T08:21:00.000+01:00

Monday, 25-April-2011 - Veghel - Rosan fired up the barbecue while I did some last-minute shopping. Today is the second day of Easter. Chris and Marit were coming over for the first time. Earlier in the day, I looked through historic Dutch publications we got from Katherine for safe keeping. These were things that Grandma van Elswijk had collected and kept over the years. pics (18)

Easter with Katherine

2011-04-24T09:13:00.000+01:00

Sunday, 24-April-2011 - Rotterdam - Marij and I rented a trailer to move a kabinet and table and went to Rotterdam to visit Katherine. Before we left for home, Katherine gave us a box with historic Dutch publications for safe keeping. These were things that Grandma van Elswijk had collected and kept over the years. blog and pics .

Fun-on-Wheels Saturday

2011-04-23T12:03:00.004+01:00

Saturday, 23-April-2011 - Veghel - We headed in the direction of Erp. Stopped at the Antonius Chapel, and skated over the new fish ladder (foto) between Veghel and Keldonk. Five skaters--good for 16 km. pics (75)

Thursday Inline Skating in Dinther

2011-04-21T10:29:00.010+01:00

Thursday, 21-April-2011 - Dinther - Perfect weather for skating. This evening, I rode my bike to Dinther for an evening skate. At the café de Toren, I met Ad, Berry, Gaby, Johanna, Loret, Magda, Margret and Monique. We left shortly after 1900, got back around 2100--the street lights were on. I felt right at home with this group. Fun is an important ingredient in the Dinther skating recipe. Along the way, we took a break at a café terrace, and when we returned to de Toren, we sat outside enjoying each others' company. Nine skaters--good for 24 km. pics (52)

Inline Skating Boekel

2011-04-20T08:39:00.007+01:00

Tuesday, 19-April-2011 - Boekel - We've been without rain for a long time, but it was perfect weather for skating. Thirty skaters gathered in Boekel for the weekly Tuesday Evening Skate--good for 21 km. The sun went under on the way home. pics (51)

Fishing with Dale

2011-04-19T12:03:00.003+01:00

Tuesday, 19-April-2011 - Veghel - Marij joined me to go fishing today--only 75 meters from our front door! Caught 16 small roach (voorn). pics (48)
tackle box cleanup

First Tuesday Evening Inline Skating in Boekel

2011-04-13T09:23:00.009+01:00

Tuesday, 12-April-2011 - Boekel - We had 28 skaters for the first Tuesday evening skate in Boekel. Cool, windy, but lots of fun. pics (44)

Walk Around the Church with Hella

2011-04-11T20:54:00.022+01:00

Sunday, 10-April-2011 - Veghel - Marij and I rode our bikes to the Sint Lambertus Church to join Hella van der Wijst, best known for her weekly telvision program de Wandeling (the Walk), and participate in the fund-raising event Rondje om de Kerk to help raise money for the restoration of the church roof. Hella was baptized in this church. We walked the 1 km route with Gerard and Bep. Met another Gerard and Mieke along the way. The route passed through the church cemetery and the beautiful and peaceful gardens of the adjacent convent. These gardens are normally closed for the public. I took a guided tour along the rafters under the roof to see the progress being made. I was too scared to stand up behind the concrete railing to look down at the crowd. When I got back down, Hella and Pastor Smulders were calling out numbers for lottery winners (photo). pics (223), music, under church roof, descending church stairs, lottery

Biological Fun at Honus

2011-03-27T18:07:00.010+01:00

Sunday, 27-March-2011 - De Rips - Today, thirty-four skaters and family members came together for the annual Fun-on-Wheels Family Day at the biological dairy farm Honus in De Rips. Farmer Johan van Zelderen was our host. We followed the cows out to pasture. After the tour of the farm, and before Bep and Gerard could surprise us with a treat marking their 50th wedding anniversary, Johan surprised them by serenading Neil Young's Harvest Moon. Great weather, great friends, great day. pics (260) feeding Honus dairy cattle (00:26) clip honus calves running loose (00:43) clip Harvest Moon serenade (05:10)

Cherry Blossoms

2011-03-17T17:33:00.005Z

Thursday, 17-March-2011 - Veghel - Cherry and forsythia blossoms are for me the first signs of spring. Rode to the AA-Broeken to see if the skating pond was still flooded. Also checked on the drainage of the Juliana Park.
pics

Tax Time

2011-03-15T20:40:00.008Z

Tuesday, 15-March-2011 - Veghel - The Ides of March. Outside it was springtime, inside it was tax time. Just got done filing my income tax for both the United States and the Netherlands.

Ant's-eye View

2011-03-15T17:15:00.003Z

Tuesday, 15-March-2011 - Veghel - Got low to the ground to get an ant's-eye view of the spring flowers around the house.
pics

Traditional Carnaval Sunday in Veghel

2011-03-06T14:18:00.020Z

Sunday, 7-March-2011 - Veghel - Carnaval is full of traditions throughout the world. In Kuussegat (as Veghel is called during carnaval) one of these traditions is the Carnavalsmis (carnaval church service) at the Sint Lambertus Church--laced with humor, but reverant and respectful. This years' motto is 't Is un skôn ding! (It's a beautiful thing!) We had perfect sunny weather. In the afternoon, went to see the optocht (carnaval parade). The route was lined thick with people of all ages. Saw these young pink ladies (photo). Also saw our neighbors Tineke and Gert performing with the Stappers. https://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Carnaval_2011# (350 photos)

Student Bus Travelers at Peril--Part 2

2011-02-25T16:46:00.027Z

Friday, 25-February-2011 - Veghel - Was called today by Veghel township executive Annemieke van de Ven, as well as Bundersweg Reconstruction project leader Joris Jansen. They both shared my concerns for the safety of the student bus travelers at the N265 ROC de Leijgraaf location. This is a temporary situation which should last five more weeks when the bus stops at the new round-about will be ready for use. At that time, the "temporary" N265 ROC bus stops will be de-activated. Travelers need to use the nearby pedestrian crossing at the Cor van Schie intersection. It's one's own responsiblility to cross safely using existing means. This crossing has been modified to immediately stop automobile traffic when a pedestrian pushes the button. As for warning signs, I was informed that 30 km/hr speed limit signs already exist to regulate the traffic for this construction area. I told them than I did not see these signs, but I'd have a look today. I accepted that the township had taken the necessary measures to keep this area safe. Now, to figure out why traffic doesn't slow down, and why students continue to dangerously cross the road (photo). I rode my bike to checkout the location once more. Approaching from the ASV intersection, I discovered a one 30 km sign in clear view; but traffic passed by at 50-60 km/hr. Drivers didn't seem to notice this single sign among the several large yellow information signs--until I stood next to it taking pictures. at the "Cor van Schie" bus stop, I asked a student who had just crossed the road with three friends. She replied that she got used to doing it this way--it had become a habit. I then spoke to Suzanne Kuipers at the ROC de Leijgraaf. She would post another intranet message for the faculty and student body. She would also speak to her colleague at the Fioretti College. I then rode to approach the ROC from Mariaheide. I discovered the 30 km sign was not visible to drivers--it was hidden by a row of trees and a large yellow information sign. Mr Jansen needs to be informed of this. I remembered how signs for changing speed limits were posted in other areas of town, so I went looking for good examples whch could be applied at the N265 ROC de Leijgraaf location.
https://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Bus_stops_roc_leijgraaf_veghelPart_2#

Google Art Project

2011-02-19T14:50:00.003Z

Saturday, 19-February-2011 - New York - Normally, to get this close to this painting, one needs to visit the The Museum of Modern Art in New York, but the Google Art Project now brings it to your home.

https://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Google_art_project#

Student Bus Travelers at Peril

2011-02-15T14:47:00.001Z

Tuesday, 15-Februrary-2011 - Veghel - Since the removal of the earth berm and installation of two new bus stops along the Udenseweg (N265) between Cor van Schie and the BP gasoline station, a very dangerous situation exists at two large regional schools: ROC de Leijgraaf and het Fioretti College. Posted speed limit is 50 km/hr, but this is often exceeded. Bus travelers, younger and older, hastily cross the busy road without stoplight-protected pedestrian traffic crossings! I observed this today when I went to the carwash across the road. This is also a reason for students to cross the road--it has a convenience store for fast food and snacks.
https://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Bus_stops_roc_leijgraaf_veghel#
streetview of old situation with earth berm intact

Standing Water in Juliana Park

2011-02-15T14:28:00.009Z

Tuesday, 15-February-2011 - Veghel - On my way to the Profile Tyre Center, I saw standing water in the Juliana Park. on my way back home, I stopped to take a closer look. It now has a resemblance to a tractor pull site; but except for a couple of "snow-" whitened trees and shrubs, it looks like it did before the Julia Winterpark: full of water. "It's difficult to return this park to its former condition after rain, snow, and more rain." 13-jan-2011 event organiser Jan-Hein Opheij. It's important to note that water had to be pumped out of the Juliana park prior to installing the Julia Winterpark (see prior link for photo). This was done wih the help of the township of Veghel. The Julia Winterpark was a wonderful event, but steps need to be taken to maintain the beauty of this park during the winter months.

https://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Julianapark#

prior to Julia Winterpark

Frozen AA-Broeken Nature Area

2011-02-01T14:48:00.014Z

1-February-2011 - Veghel - Got another rush skating on 3cm ice cracking underneath me. This time I made rounds as near to the edge as I could. The pond is 280 meters long and 60 meters wide. I felt like Rocky Balboa, and started to "sing" the movie theme song. Then I thought about the Raymond van het Groenewoud concert, and I asked myself in Dutch, " How do I look"? After skating I walked around the nature area and saw it's frozen beauty. This area has rusty spring water which takes longer to freeze. This is probrably why I saw a common king fisher (Alcedo atthis)--ijsvogel in Dutch--before heading home. This bird relies on catching small fish. When water freezes over, the king fisher goes hungry.
https://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/AaBroeken_frozen_nature_area #
rocky on ice
how do I look?
Guy with a Stick, Skating on the Ice
rusty spring water

Cracking AA-Broeken Ice

2011-01-31T19:16:00.009Z

Monday, 31-January-2011 - Veghel - The ice was 3 cm thick today, and the weather would be getting warmer, so it was do or die. I put on my skates and slid on to the ice. The adrenaline rushed through my body as I heard the ice crack with every stride. What a kick! I started in the center of the pond. Each round got larger and larger. I didn't want to skate over the same path. After about six rounds without breaking through the ice, I considered myself lucky, and headed for the bank. After putting my boots back on, I met Leo who showed me the Archimides screw (photo) which was once used to flood the meadow to make the ice skating pond.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/AaBroeken_ice#
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6b4Y2JuCTWI

AA-Broeken Daredevils

2011-01-30T19:35:00.004Z

Sunday, 30-January-2011 - Veghel - I got dressed for ice skating, just in case. The ice was only slightly thicker than yesterday--about 2.5 cm now. It was still not thick enough for me, but a couple of younger guys dared to go out on the ice.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/AaBroeken_skating#

Sunset Bike Ride to Vorstenbosch

2011-01-27T20:10:00.000Z

Thursday, 27-January-2011 - Vorstenbosch - The sun was going down, but I wanted to get a short bike ride in today.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Sunset_bike_ride_to_vorstenbosch#

Honus BioLogical Diary Farm

2011-01-15T19:42:00.011Z

Saturday, 15-January-2011 - De Rips - Got up at 0515 today to join Johan to watch and maybe help milk his cows. Start time was 0645. I had a standing invitation. He knew I milked cows when I worked as a farmhand in Michigan. Johan volunteered to host this year's Fun-on-Wheels (FOW) family day at Honus (the name of the biological dairy farm he runs with his brother Kees). The FOW family day committee was to meet at 1000, but I wanted to get a first-hand look before then. At Honus, cows have names, not just numbers.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Honus_first_visit#
video clips:
Milking Cows at Honus--Part 1
Milking Cows at Honus--Part 2
Milking Cows at Honus--Part 3

More Skating at the AA-Broeken

2010-12-30T11:46:00.001Z

Thursday, 30-December-2010 - Veghel - The snow and ice were melting. Went to mail some greeting cards on my way to go ice skating, but discovered our local mailbox had been removed as a precautionary measure to prevent vandalism.Met Niek at the AA-Broeken. He's the bass player in the Fioretti school band. He was waiting for his cousin Huub to arrive so they could play hockey.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Ice_skating_aaBroeken_20101230#

AA-Broeken--Skating on Thin Ice

2010-12-27T20:40:00.007Z

Monday, 27-December-2010 - Veghel - I got to the AA-Broeken pond around 1100 to check out the ice. I brought along my snow shovel to clear the best spots. The pond was officially closed--getting on the ice was at one's own risk. The thickness varied from 3 to 8 cm--not yet thick enough to handle 200 people. It would freeze again tonight, but thaw during the day. Some hockey players showed up around 1300. I asked everyone I spoke to to bring their snow shovels the next time they came to ice skate. to help the ice get thicker. http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Ice_skating_aaBroeken_20101227#
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AC3Ok_b4f4Y

Second Day of Christmas

2010-12-26T21:10:00.001Z

Sunday, 26-December-2010 - Veghel - I got up to watch the birds feed in the back yard. I met my neighbor Johan on my way to the AA-Broeken. He showed me his high-tech bow. At the pond, the first ice skaters appeared to clear the ice to make a hockey rink.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Christmas_2010_day2#

Christmas Day

2010-12-25T21:29:00.001Z

Saturday, 25-December-2010 - Veghel - Listened to the Radio 2 Top 2000 while I peeled potatoes. Chris joined us around 1800 for Christmas dinner. After dinner, we opened presents. Rosan was happy with her Marilyn Monroe calendar.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Christmas_2010_day1#
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBj5kDnEoLQ

Christmas Eve Day Winter

2010-12-24T16:03:00.008Z

Friday, 24-December-2010 - Got about 12 cm of snow last night. Spent most of the day shoveling and playing in the snow. Had a 0950 appointment at the hostipal. I was sweating after two hours of shoveling. Dr van Hulsteijn was pleased with results of MRI, X-ray and blood work. I'll continue on Prednison (2x5mg), and I'll see him again in four weeks. Need to wait to start play volleybal again. Spoke to two ice skaters (photo) who were checking out conditions at the AA-Broeken. It was slushy. It will get cold tonight and tomorrow night. I'll check back on Sunday. Our TNT postwoman complimented me on our clean driveway. I was glad she had strap-on spikes to get around in this slippery weather. Looking forward to going to the Christmas Eve service at 2300 at Sint-Lambertus with Rosan.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Christmas_eve_day_winter#

Christmas Brunch at StandardAero

2010-12-23T08:14:00.004Z

Thursday, 23-December-2010 - Tilburg - It was less than a month since my last work day at StandardAero. I didn't expect to be invited to the Christmas brunch, but Gerard wanted to officially mark my retirement. I cleared the light snow, and then got cleaned up--I hadn't shaved for a few days. When I got to Tilburg, it was like I hadn't left. I was glad to see everyone. Got a nice bouquet of flowers and dining gift certificate. Even got a Christmas package--normally reserved for current employees.
https://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Christmas_brunch_sabv#

Merry Christmas

2010-12-16T15:56:00.002Z

Thursday, 16-December-2010 - Veghel - Dear Friends, Instead of paper, we're sending this e-mail Christmas card to those who use internet.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Merry_christmas

Wishing you a blessed Holiday Season and a Happy New Year,

Dale, Marij, and Rosan

Winter Tires

2010-12-08T18:21:00.002Z

Wednesday, 8-December-2010 - Veghel - Snow was forecast and I needed to be ready to take my daughter Katherine to the Düsseldorf Airport next week. Winter tires are mandatory in Germany. I was in luck. Lambert of Profile Tyre Center in Veghel had the last set of winter tires in the country that would fit my Nissan.

https://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/WinterTires#

Last Days at StandardAero

2010-11-26T09:49:00.006Z

Friday, 26-November-2010 - Tilburg - Today is my last workday at StandardAero. Spent the last couple of days saying goodbye to everyone (see pics). pics (67)

Swiss Sense Mountainbiking

2010-11-06T15:25:00.000Z

Saturday, 6-November-2010 - Uden - Went mountainbiking with Chris today. I wanted to check out my physical condition. We took it easy. On the way back we rode by Swiss Sense where Chris works.

http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Swisssense_mountainbiking#

De Dijk in Uden

2010-10-22T06:44:00.004+01:00

Friday, 22-October-2010 - Uden - Marij and I got tickets at the last minute. The Dutch pop group De Dijk performed last night in de Pul in Uden--what a great concert! We saw our picture on the front page of the Uden-Veghel edition of the Brabants Dagblad this morning.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/De_dijk_de_pul_uden#
http://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/De_Dijk_(band)

Jan 50

2010-10-03T21:08:00.006+01:00

Sunday, 3-October-2010 - Uden - Got home in time to shower and get ready for afternoon skating with Jan. Fun-on-Wheels skating buddy Jan Verhoeven celebrated his 50th birthday today. Rosan dropped me off at Camping Slabroek. Thirty skaters were good for 30 km. When we got back, the Maffidjoosi pizza oven was going and Jan's Top 50 was counting down. We had a great party. It was just a super day!
http://janviert50.blogspot.com/
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Skating_jan_50#

Fun-on-Wheels in Best

2010-10-03T20:47:00.003+01:00

Sunday, 3-October-2010 - Best - Got up at 0600 to go skating in the morning with Fun-on-Wheels in Best. It had rained a lot yesterday, but a warm sunny day was forecasted for today. Mark brought along his backpack boombox. It was a little slippery, but we took it easy. Stopped along the way to admire this magnificient mushroom. Eleven skaters were good for 33.5 km.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/20101003_best#
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ph3GtiGdH3k

Pastoor Ruimt Op--Parish Yard Sale

2010-09-26T21:11:00.000+01:00

Sunday, 26-September-2010 - Veghel - Marij volunteered for the Sint Lambertus Parish Yard Sale, and I came along to help--got my face painted along the way. Saw a lot of familiar faces. We had a good time, for a good cause: the church needs a new roof.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Pastoor_ruimt_op#

Fun-on-Wheels Skaters Return from Amsterdam

2010-09-19T19:24:00.003+01:00

Sunday, 19-September-2010 - Zijtaart - I got to Zijtaart in plenty of time, so I walked the main street of the villiage while I waited for the Fun-on-Wheels skaters to return from Amsterdam.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/I_skate_amsterdam_200919#

Womens Soccer Reunion

2010-09-18T19:13:00.004+01:00

Saturday, 18-September-2010 - Veghel - Katherine is in Veghel today for the reunion of the Blauw-Geel 38 women soccer players. She started playing here on a boys team when she was 10 years old. Her great-grand father Jan Vrijhof was one of the founders of the original Olympia soccer club back in 1919.

http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/BlauwGeel_dames_reunie#

I (Don't) Skate Amsterdam

2010-09-17T16:13:00.004+01:00

Friday, 17-September-2010 - Zijtaart - I strained my back lifting an (empty) wheelbaro last Wednesday morning. Even though I was getting better each day, I had to forget about skating this weekend in Amsterdam with the other Fun-on-Wheels skaters. The least I could do was to wave as the rest headed out from today's meeting point, Inge and Bart's home in Zijaart. After some apple pie and last minute instructions from Ine and Inge, they were on their way.

http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/I_skate_amsterdam_200917#

http://www.fridaynightskate.com/

Slabroek Skating

2010-09-13T20:43:00.000+01:00

Monday, 13-September-2010 - Uden - It was a nice day, and it was going to rain the rest of the week so I took off from work early. I wanted to test my old skates to see if they would be better to wear for our upcoming Fun-on-Wheels skate weekend in Amsterdam. At the edge of the bike path I saw these magnificient mushrooms.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Skating_slabroek#

Skating to Uden

2010-09-06T20:38:00.000+01:00

Monday, 6-September-2010 - Uden - This evening was nice and warm. Tomorrow would be rainy. I headed for Uden.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Skating_to_uden02#

Flea Market Fun

2010-09-05T19:38:00.005+01:00

Sunday, 5-September-2010 - Uden - The alarm clock went off at 0530. Marij and I were going to the J V Ooievaarsnest Rommelmarkt (flea market). Two cars were loaded and ready to go. I finished coffee and breakfast, while Marij headed for Uden--the gate opened at 0700. I was impressed with how nicely the things were displayed for sale. We had good neighbors and saw familiar faces. With the sunny warm weather, we had a great time. One car even came home empty. Later that evening, we went to Claudia's birthday party, and got treated to Jacomijne singing and Vincent playing guitar.

http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/Rommelmarkt_ooievaarsnest_uden#

Tuesday Evening Skating in Boekel

2010-08-31T20:44:00.002+01:00

Tuesday, 31-08-2010 - Boekel - Made some extra sandwiches so I'd have enough to eat on the way home before I went skating. The weather report said it would be dry, but on the way home from work, I had my doubts. I biked over to Jan's place. I was later than usual, because I was trying to put in my clear lenses so I could see better as the sun went down. It turned out to be a beautiful sunny evening--perfect skating weather. On the way home, got an invitation for Jan's 50th birthday party.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/20100831_boekel#

Aaron and Em Arrive in Holland

2010-08-25T14:42:00.006+01:00

Wednesday, 25-August-2010 - Rotterdam - Woke up at 0330. Drove to Katherine's place in Rotterdam. We had coffee and then headed for Schiphol Airport. Picked up Aaron and his daughter Em(ilie). They're here from Amherst, NS for a three-week vacation.
http://following-katherine-round-the-world.blogspot.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRiYS2T9fWY

Marij's New Car

2010-08-24T21:05:00.005+01:00

Tuesday, 24-Aug-2010 - Gemert - Rosan drove me to P.J. Peeters in Gemert to pickup Marij's new car--a 2002 Ford Fiesta. salesman Mark van Nunen gave me the keys.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/MarijS_new_car#

Skating the Electroworld 100 km

2010-08-21T09:00:00.010+01:00

Saturday, 21-aug-2010 - Boekel - At the end of the day, I felt only admiration for all of the participants, volunteers, and organizers of this great event. I've been preparing and looking forward to this day all season--wanting to know if I had what it takes to finish the Electroworld 100 km. The sun shined throught the window around 0700 as I was getting my things together. Got to the starting point at 0920. Saw a lot of familiar and smiling Fun-on-wheels and Boekel Tuesday Evening skating faces. Spoke to fellow Waidring skiier Tini van Tienen. This was his 15th year for the Boekel 100 km--he was one of eight that finished the fist year. My thanks goes to Gerard, bicycling traffic controller, who helped me make it to the 80km rest stop, and also to Sijtze Hoekstra who gave me a helping hand for another 5 km. That's when Gerard said I was looking pretty tired and advised me to hop in the safety van. That's where I got to take some more pictures. After resting and bowl of soup, I biked back to Veghel.
http://picasaweb.google.com/dale.weiss.planet/20100821_boekel_100km#
100km route