Children are walking around with slightly more anxious faces and parents are sighing about their offspring leaving grass all around the house for Sinterklaas' horse.
SinterWHO?, you ask I suppose. Well, Sinterklaas is the Dutch version of Santa Claus, and we celebrate this man who visits all the children on December 5th leaving presents in their shoe in exchange for a bit of foliage and water for his stalwart steed. In the Netherlands the good bishop comes through the chimney (sound familiar?), but since most Aruban houses do not have fireplaces, we just say he comes through the roof. No need for elaboraration.
There has been a lot of talk about colonialism and the like on the island, but it is obvious that it all flies out the window when this icon of Dutch culture comes by bearing candy and presents. We're very easily bribed.
Oh man I miss this blog. Are are y'all going to start posting again?
Posted by: Vanda | August 29, 2007 at 10:36 AM