Fall Holidays 2021

The mash-up of American and Dutch fall holidays steamrolled us yet again! Non-stop merry-making from October 31 through the New Year. 

First up, Halloween. Despite rising case numbers, ISA held their annual trunk or treat the Friday before Halloween. It was so nice having this tradition back. The kids had a blast with their friends.

Despite owning a mermaid costume, Maeve decided she needed a homemade one instead. 

Happily, these guys just picked costumes from the costume drawer! 

I tried. 

After organizing a few neighbors to give out candy last year, one of the neighbors invited all of Amstelveen to participate in Halloween this year. There was a good concentration of participating houses near us so we had a crew over for some pizza and trick or treating. Just as we went out, the rain started pouring down! We retreated into the house to try to wait it out, but eventually had to suck it up and trudge out in the rain. We were a motley crew! 

 

Shortly after on Sint Marteen, we visited a few houses with Julian and Lucia. It actually wasn't raining! This year, the older boys learned a charming version of one of the classic songs in school.... It was quite shocking to hear Jude singing "mijn moeder is een dikzak" (my mother is a fat bag)! 

Next, Sinterklaas arrived and we watched his subdued arrival in the canal rings. Post to follow!

And then, Thanksgiving! Christie and Dan were the most excellent hosts, with a delicious spread, games to entertain the kids and family charades to end the night! Memories made all the more special as it was our last gathering with the Bulls, who made an earlier-than-expected return to Seattle. New COVID restrictions limited household guests to 4 adults a day so thankfully we didn't have to change our plans. Negative self-tests for all helped us feel safe. I love sharing this day with fellow Americans and in these restricted times, it was nice to have something to look forward to.