It’s been a while since I’ve done a blog post – so much has happened! Back in May, we moved from the UK to start our life in Rotterdam. Moving is never an easy undertaking, but moving in the middle of a global pandemic is definitely not something I would recommend.
We’ve bought a lovely 1930s house in Rotterdam Noord – a fantastic area of the city with so many parks, lively streets and shops, and great people! We absolutely love living in the city.
A short bike ride away (or on this occasion a tram ride) is the museum garden Trompenburg. It is a collection of different gardens and an arboretum. I love going here every now and again. Today I decided to visit as the light was gorgeous, and I thought the trees might provide some shade against the extreme heat we’ve experienced today.
The gardens did not disappoint – you can notice the turning of the season, the smell of leaves and the constant sound of acorns falling from the trees. They either land with a nice thud or a splash, depending on whether they land on the soft garden grounds or in one of the many ponds or canals that run through the gardens. At times it felt as if the ring-necked parakeets were hurling down acorns from the trees on purpose, just to mess with me.
Not only do the gardens host many varieties of plants and trees, but they offer shelter to a wide range of different birds too. The above mentioned ring-necked parakeets (which you hear before you see them), then there’s jays, magpies, and many smaller birds such as tits sparrows, and so forth. And as there’s so much water, herons can also be found stalking the waterside.
Just as I was about to head back home I crossed one of the many bridges in the gardens, when I noticed three giant koi-carp swimming. They seemed to be in a playful mood, and even approached me as I was taking pictures. They might’ve hoped for a snack, which I could not provide. I do hope the storks don’t get to them though!
Warmest wishes,
Jacob
