We actually had blue sky and sunshine today, first time in ages. Took the camera to the woods with me but haven't looked at the results yet as son and grandkids were waiting for me here when I got home. They've just left.

I hope tomorrow is as bright, even if it isn't full on sun.

Hmm. We had that a year or two ago. Was a leak in the feed to a radiator. They capped that off and it was fine. Now my husband has declared he has had enough and wants his radiator back (it's in his office). So one of the weeks they will be coming to re-plumb his radiator and replace a couple of others while they are at it. A pity dear husband didn't decide on this in this summer .

I can guarantee a severe cold spell they day they arrive, and hubby heading off for France or Germany or anywhere where he doesn't have to sit and shiver in mess for a few days .

Apparently one of the weather forecasting companies here has said there is a 70% chance of a winter at least as bad as last year and probably worse.

Mind you they also predicted a BBQ summer last year .

Actually there are a lot less windows in the Wallen now I'm told. A US friend loves to wander around there when he visits NL, and he says the councils clean up campaign is beginning to bite.

Don't be put off by the chaos by the station, or the initial impression of the place.
It has improved considerably over recent years, It truly used to be the armpit of the world, but it is now a lot better.

Utrecht or Haarlem (which is only 15 or so minutes away by train) make a nice diversion if you have the time to spare.

I'm sure you will have a great trip. Leidseplein is the place for night time entertainment, and you could see who is on at Melkweg or Paradiso while you are over if you want to catch a concert.

Utrecht at the moment is actually very good for photographers as it has a special light show on. I keep meaning to go in, but want some company for it as I don't want to walk around Utrecht in the dark with an expensive camera. http://www.trajectumlumen.nl/?p=en

Should you wish to partake of the weed whilst in Amsterdam there are plenty of good coffeeshops around. Make sure you don't partake too close to returning home or the drugs dogs in the UK may go bananas .

Sadly yes, she is successful.

Ah yes! thanks Stefan.
As I said I still find Jill Greenbergs photos closer to child abuse.

It is sad that people over react to such simple photos.
I really don't think perverts are lurking round every corner snapping away at children - they are online grooming them nowadays .

I don't go in that often. Usually when we have guests.

Do not photograph the Ladies or the Windows of the Wallen. Not a good move.
Otherwise photographically no probs. You can't take pictures in the museums so if you are going to the Van Gogh or Rijks leave the camera either in their guarded garderobe or at your hotel.

Night time some of the bridges are lit so you can get some great photos. Have a wander around the Jordaan for some interesting buildings and streets.
The flower market is always colourful.

Take the usual precautions with your camera, and other valuables, especially on trams buses and trains.

If you want to visit the Anne Frankhuis and or the van Gogh buy your tickets online to avoid queuing.

Oh and watch out for bikes. They will not give way to you and they ignore the rules of the road, including red traffic lights. Trams need to be watched too, but to a lesser extent - they don't stop for you either unless you are at a tram stop .

Well who better to explain an alien face in the clouds than aliengrove?

Great photo. I have ever seen clouds like that. I love clouds :

Not good. Hopefully it isn't bursitis - that is very painful and takes a long time to clear up. I know from experience .

Because it's a rose .

I really like both photos.

Wow what a productive lot!

Exciting news Daniel. We shall look forward to the baby pics. Taken with the K-5 .