Sometimes when the kids are asking for something, I tell them to go ask 'the big guy' and they somehow know that means 'Dad.' Well, this year 'the big guy's' birthday ushered us all in to the Dutch ways on all things "Hartelijk Gefeliciteerd" or Happy Birthday.
The Dutch love themselves a good birthday. They go crazy for birthdays, congratulating not just the birthday boy or girl, but everyone in his or her entire family. They literally say "Congratulations on your husband's (mom's, dad's, or whomever's) birthday." If it's your bday at work, you are responsible for bringing the cake. Ry bought some pies from a local bakery, and everyone took a quick pie break at work. They came in and shook Ryan's hand, asking him his age and congratulating him. I wasn't so sure about all this at first (asking your age…really?), but now I think it's kind of cool. It makes you feel like you've really accomplished something just by staying alive. And for a mom (or dad I guess), being congratulated on your child's birthday could feel like "Yeah, that's right, I've kept this kid alive and well for all these years." Kind of fun, right?
So here are some pics (grainy ipad pics, but pictures nonetheless), of our little celebration at home. The big guy bought one extra pie for the family and it was a stroop waffle pie. Stroop waffles are one of our favorite Dutch treats, they're like two waffle cones squished together with a honey-like syrup in between. It might not sound like much but trust me, they grow on you.
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| Stroop Waffle Goodness |
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| A very Dutch "Stroop Waffle Pie" |
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| Looking up to the big guy, I love this one. |
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| All smiles with A…she's hoping for the first shot at the pie I think. |
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| The whole clan, ready for a birthday treat. |
Feel free to leave us your Congratulations! After all, a birthday is a huge accomplishment, wouldn't you agree?
1 comment:
Happy WAY Late b-day. Wish we could've been there to celebrate with you Ryan. You've convinced me to come visit for the yummy treats alone.
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