Birthday by the Water
Harderwijk Edition
As noted, yesterday marked the 30th anniversary of my birth. The weather in Lelystad was wet and unseasonably cold — 16 degrees Celsius. This is a far cry from the 36 to 40 degrees I am accustomed to in Bulgaria. The day was spent in solitude, occupied with work that consisted primarily of programming, debugging and commissioning conveyor systems. I found the experience uninspiring and, frankly, repellent. No celebration, no family, no warmth.
Today, however, I travelled to Harderwijk. The town, situated on the edge of the Veluwemeer, is of historical interest and possesses a certain charm. I was accompanied by a colleague, and we spent approximately two hours walking through the old town. The streets are narrow and winding, reminiscent of Diagon Alley — though I assure you, dear reader, the comparison is architectural, not fantastical.
We passed around the Dolfinarium, the largest marine mammal park in Europe. It houses dolphins, seals, walruses, and sea lions, and offers various demonstrations and educational presentations. While we did not attend a show, the presence of the facility added a curious liveliness to the town. The dolphins, I am told, are named and well cared for, and the park includes touch tanks and interactive exhibits. It is a place I would consider revisiting with my wife and son.
The evening concluded with a modest dinner. Conversation was agreeable, and the atmosphere was relaxed. The experience reminded me of Sir Charles Baskerville and Dr. Mortimer — two men of science, sharing quiet observations on the bone structure of the Bushmen. There was no mystery to solve, but there was companionship, and that, dear reader, is not to be undervalued.
I return to Lelystad with improved spirits. The contrast between yesterday and today is marked. I raise a glass to the evening, and to the dolphins, who — unlike the conveyors — seem to possess a certain joy in their movements.
Bottoms up!