Three Hungry Swimmers

Sophie and I met with some friends from our English-speaking playgroup to go swimming at Duesselstrand today. This place offers numerous pools, slides and all kinds of other fun distractions for small and big kids. 

After a good hour and a half of play, everyone was hungry for lunch.

We all went to a nearby Italian family restaurant. 

Here is a picture of Hugo, Sophie and Bo coloring while waiting for their pasta and pizza.

Saint Martin

In case you ever wondered who Saint Martin was. According to legend, he was a knight a long time ago who shared all of his food with poor people. When he had no more food left to share, he came across another cold poor person in rags. He then divided his cape with his sword and gave one half to the poor person to keep him warm. 

This act of sharing is celebrated every year in Germany in November. It is also the German festival of lanterns to light up this dreary season a little. There are numerous lantern parades, some with bands, all over the towns. Sometimes the kids will go sing from house to house to collect candy. 

The celebrations started for Sophie at her preschool with a little sing-along and role play. How very special for her: Sophie was chosen to play the poor man this year. She was so proud of having a big part in the play. I had to shorten the video a bit.

Trick or Treat

Today, the day after Halloween, is a holiday in Germany (surprise!) - All Saints Day. For us that is another day with everything closed. We were happy to see that some English-speaking parents had organized a little trick or treat get together at a park. Too bad it started raining just as we exited the subway. 

 We moved the candy hunt under the trees which provided some shelter. Sophie was dressed up as Belle today.

 But after some time, we were all ready for some hot chocolate or coffee to warm up.

 Somebody knew of a wonderful, kid-friendly, cafe nearby that specializes in home-made chocolates, cakes and ice cream. 

Bo and Sophie are enjoying their kids ice creams.

The big attraction was a brand new baby. 

Despite the rain, it was a fun afternoon with fun people.