Each year, on November 11, school-aged children walk the neighborhoods and parks in a lantern parade to honor Saint Martin of Tours, friend of children and the poor. Kids make their own hand-crafted lanterns (usually at school) and walk door-to-door singing songs about Saint Martin and asking for candy. It's a lot like Halloween, without the costumes.
When the children walk through the city parks after dusk, with only the light of paper lanterns, it is one of the most moving experiences of a lifetime. It's hard to believe, but it's is our third year celebrating this touching holiday.
Of course, in the United States, November 11 is also a time to remember those who have served the country during times of war. Thank you for your service, and for helping protect the lives of future generations, like the little ones pictured here with just their lanterns and a smile.
A special moment of gratitude goes out to our family and friends who have served:
Gary Bolen
Mel Furbish
Reif Russell
Al Satzman
In an interesting observation about differences in culture, The Netherlands does not have the same twisted history of poisonings and razor blades in candy. It felt like a return to the 1970's with all the unwrapped candy. Don't get me wrong, I'm still kind of grossed out with all those grimy kid hands, but still interesting that the same fear factor doesn't exist over here.
Love this! A & R even stopped by a few outdoor cafes and sang for candy!
All in Dutch, of course!
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