t minus zero

Well, the plane was late to depart and had the usual Heathrow hassle actually getting to the gate whilst doors were opened and closed sporadically 'for security reasons'. Online checking had suggested the flight would be extremely quiet, but in reality it was nigh-on full.

The first 10 minutes of the flight allowed for a gentle rise and circling out of Heathrow and I was met with a most spectacular vista. I'm not sure I've ever seen England looking quite so lovely (on the day when I leave, typically). Fields, gold and green, and towns out to the horizon; broken cloud and broken shadows, a gentle haze and a beautiful quality of light. It was enough to bring out a bit of 'Jerusalem' (despite the ludicrous lyrics).

Anyway, eventually those views faded as we rose into the clouds, although we saw, in patches, boats and windfarms as the Dutch coast approached. Inland, I was struck by the lush fields, separated not by walls, as back in the UK, but by water.

Although I suspect the following comparison won't stand up to much detailed analysis, this flat country lends itself to 'big skies', the like of which I haven't really seen since taking Greyhound buses across the plains of Montana and North Dakota. More habitation is evident here; much more.

I made it from the airport to the bus-stop nearest to my accommodation here, and wandered in what (it turns out) was about the right direction. What I hadn't taken into account, however, was that the aforementioned waterways often impede shortcuts, so I found it necessary (twice) to divert and find somewhere to cross.

Having arrived at the house (which is somewhat larger than I envisaged), I was introduced to the residence and the neighbourhood [my thanks to Tara]. A neighbour too, Scottish, watching snooker and offering tea; a fine start.