Easter

For some Easter is the most significant Christian holiday. For others it means the arrival of spring. For everyone it represents rebirth and new life.  Most European Easter traditions go back hundreds of years. Eggs as symbols of new life, play a prominent role in many of these traditions. They became a canvas for creative decoration in many countries. The beautiful patterns were opportunity for artistic individuals to express themselves but also were full of symbolism. Today Easter remains an occasion for families to gather with special food and their own unique traditions.  

The “Kist”

The “Kist”

When I was a child, my best friend Debbie used to get a Christmas box from her grandparents who still lived in The Netherlands. In those days we called a box like that a "kist".  That translates as "crate".  When the kist arrived for Debbie's family I wished my Opas...

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Why Dutch People Give Chocolate Letters

Why Dutch People Give Chocolate Letters

Why do Dutch people give chocolate letters? When we receive our initial on "Pakjesavond" December 5 or at Christmas most of us just eat the delicious chocolate without wondering why this unique tradition is still practiced. The history of receiving a "letter" dates...

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