Tuesday 2 October 2012

Another page done!

Yay another page is done! This is page 9:





The past few days (well nights) I have been in a stitching frenzy according to the Boyfriend. But look at the cute planets!!! Next are pages 20 and 31!

Outside my building my hometown is celebrating an historical event, called Leidens Ontzet. Leiden remembers being freed of the Spanish in 1574 (this was during the 80 year of war against the (catholic) Spanish). The people of Leiden were starving at that time, they were under siege for several weeks. When the Spanish soldiers fled the gates opened and the people went outside and found Hutspot (a stew made of carrots, potatoes, unions and pork meat). Also, the Geuzen (in English: the Beggars) brought them haring and white bread. I am sure I have left some really important and interesting pieces out of the story
Until this day this is celebrated at October 3rd. With Hutspot, haring and white bread. My grandma, who was born in this city, has fond memories of the celebration.
But in these modern times also with lots of beer, carnival and music. On every corner of the street in the center of Leiden there is a small stage. I happen to live in the center. So when I sit in my living room I have a stage in front of my door, a carnival to the right, a carnival to the left and parking next to my building. The party tonight is till 2 in the morning and tomorrow till 3 in the morning.. I was not born in Leiden and did not grew up with this celebration. This party, the noise, it just doesn't do anything for me. I think it's because in the past I had to jump over puke and other human junk the day after to get to public transportation (or to my front door!), that completely ruined the fun for me!

But you know what? It IS very cool to celebrate something that happened more than 400 years ago! I love that!

3 comments:

Monique said...

Hopefylly this year you will have better lucky and they will not be so messy. And you are right, those planets are really cute.

Unknown said...

Your Train is so close to being finished. WOW, it has been the most fun watching your stitching. I LOVE your posts about your celebrations and your culture. I find it fascinating and so interesting. Thank you for sharing

Melissa said...

Hey there! I'm a new follower :)

Thanks for the history lesson! Not something I would have ever known if not for you. Celebrations are awesome but I'm sure your not the only one that hates the morning after haha.

Lovely stitching - and have a great weekend!

Melissa

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