Whenever the weather in Holland allows it, I instantly drop the things I am working on at that moment, and slip into my inline skates. Since my skates are quite old, and I am a very fashionable aware person, I always tend to dress accordingly my skates. So my outfit exists out of old torn jeans, cheap sun glasses (probably a model from the eighties), and final but not least, an oversized shirt from H&M.
Finally when dressed properly, I take off and stroll along the promenade and try to smell the ‘freshness’ of Rotterdam. My destination is always a small lake near the city center, where people come to escape from the hectic life in the city. And honestly, it is a beautiful spot for relaxation. So, as being a true citizen of Rotterdam, I do as other people do – sit, relax and listen to what the neighbors have to say to each other.
Today is one of those tropical days we lately have in Holland, and one should not stay too long in the sun or especially leave young children too long in the sun. Already being amazed by the many buggies being dragged backwards by their moms, I continued strolling along the lake to my relaxation spot. Probably because of the heat, there were not many neighbors to listen to, but just an old lady desperately trying to get a tan.
Before I continue, you should know that we Dutch people hold our privacy in high esteem and people meddling with our business are often being chased off by the phrase “Mind your own businessâ€.
Before I even start wondering why the lady that just passes me, does not drag her buggy backwards, the old lady next to me starts meddling and tells the mother that she should protect her children against the sun. Finally I got to realize why all other moms where dragging the buggy instead of pushing it. As expected, the mother threw the known phrase to the old lady “Mind your own business old ladyâ€, where the mother stubborn continued pushing the buggy and the old lady minded her own business again. Ten minutes later, when I was gaining some speed to pass yet another buggy being dragged backwards, I realized the mom looked really familiar…