The Heat is On

Just checked the temperature. It’s 10.20pm and the temperature is 22C. The weathermen predicted that today was the hottest day of the year, bringing the first heat alert of 2010. The sweltering temperature remained into the evening  which health experts says posed the greatest threat to health. The high humidity and the lack of any breeze made matter worst.

It was going to be a very muggy, sticky night. We sleep with the windows open anyway and tonight we’re going to have the fan running full speed. It had already been one of the driest start to the summer in more than 70 years, with water levels in lakes and reservoirs plummeting. I bet this Lapwing at Teal Pool is wondering where’s the water gone???

Early this week, we went to Brandon Marsh after work to check out this beautiful Bee Orchid. It is in full bloom at the moment and I want to take the opportunity to photograph this native plant.  I had to lie on the ground to find the perfect angle for this picture. But it was worth it. Isn’t it stunning…

On Wednesday, my colleagues and I had fun smashing and lobbying each other in the badminton court. TW is still recovering from his sprained ankle and then FM did hers. Oh dear…Get well soon guys cos we are lacking partners at the moment.

I had to rush home after the game cos I don’t want to miss the match between Spain and Germany. The roads was practically empty but there were still drivers who drove like maniacs. i guess they too were in a rush to be in front of the tv.

The match wasn’t what I expected. The Germans have been crowd pleasers throughout this tournament so far but they simply didn't turn up for semis. The lionhearts of Spain looked much more lively from the start.

Low was without Muller, who was suspended, and the Germans missed his clever link-up play in the final third as they struggled to create chances. Nobody expected the Spanish inquisition in the air. Nobody anticipated the European champions, the masters of the intricate passing movement, to stoop to conquer with a header from a centre-half at a corner. Yet there was Puyol, hair flying in all directions, leaping to head Spain into the final. Ole!!!

Spain’s commitment to football as the beautiful game should be appreciated. For the luddites of the modern game, like England, Sunday’s final between Spain and Holland will be a celebration of the way the game should be played: with flair and intelligence. Adding to the lustre of the occasion, a new name will now be engraved on the most wanted football trophy in the world.

Soccer City promises a fascinating spectacle, a feast of football with such technical individuals as Xavi and Iniesta, Robben and van Persie. Dutch Edam Cheese vs Spanish Chicken Paella…both are my favourite food. Holland discipline vs Spain's 'tiki-taka' tactics. Couldn’t wait…May the best team win.

It was also the fifth anniversary of the terrorist attacks that killed 52 in London. Wreaths were laid at the Hyde Park memorial to the victims of the suicide bombers who also injured more than 700. It went very quietly. There were no official events. I wonder why? My prayers and thoughts are with the families and those affected. May we all find peace.

Have a lovely weekend and don’t forget the sun-cream.