Adding to the city's holiday romance, both the old town hall and 17th century military hospital (known as the "Kloveniersdoelen"), were illuminated by soft lighting, lending the city an air of grandeur in its darkness.
Earlier in the day, I hosted a coffee morning and book swap here at the farm, and it was nice to be able to share this place (which we find so magical) with new friends. Then it was off to Sheri's house, a fellow American expat and Mom living in Middelburg. We had some interesting chats about America's increasingly fanatical bible belt (where she was born and raised), and the short road to "eternal damnation". In the end, we agreed that, violence and fanaticism aside, America is wonderful place, and one that we're both proud to call "home" (as far away as it might be).
But where is home, really? If it's something that follows around, like a giant tortoise shell, then it's here in Zeeland now, which is why we found ourselves

Adults (often) pack prank present for eachother, accompanied by a little poem. In Tobi's case, he

And of course, it's a wonderful way to get the (older) kids to be on their best behavior. Afterall, if they haven't been good, they'll either get charcoal in their shoes, or they'll be taken back to Spain by Sinterklaas and his "Zwarte Pete's". As for us, it didn't change much, but it was fun to see (and experience) a new holiday tradition here in The Netherlands.
1 comment:
Hi Liz, first, thanks for visiting my blog before, I didn't see it until today, just tells how often I check in there :)
It sounds nice with the Christmas spirit around, here in Brazil we have no such thing at all! I really miss that. I know exactly what you mean with " where is home" it can be hard to tell sometimes when you live in a another country. I think I feel that this is my home though,. Sweden is my second home, I haven't lived there for almost 10 years now so...
I like your blog, I'll come around again soon!Have a nice weekend!
Linda from My way to Freelance (current calling card as Blogger doesn't work at the moment. :)
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