February Flikkema Fests

In the USA the month of February is about Valentine's Day. In Germany, Saint Valentine warrants one pathetically small display rack of cards at the store. Most people don't even know when it is. No... here it is all about FASCHING. Basically this day (week) is Carnival or Mardi Gras and in our little town it's celebrated by cutting off ties and making kids go to endless parties. Let me explain.

On the Thursday before Ash Wednesday the men go to work with ugly or old ties on because their female coworkers cut them off right before lunchtime. This happens every year. Kevin has on both occasions "forgotten" to wear a tie. No explanation had been given to me for why this occurs. The kids have a huge all day party at school consisting of eating, dancing to fun music, and parading through the school in a single file line saying "Alle.... Ab!" I believe this means "We look.... ridiculous!" but I could be wrong. And anyway, the kids had a blast at all the celebrations (school, baby playgroup, town party, themed bday party). Kevin and I did not participate though the adults do join in and have their own parties as well. Having seen the costumes for adults in the stores... I was afraid to go. More pics here.

Of course for us February also means we celebrate Mary's birthday. She is now TWO folks. Mary can do everything on her own, thank you. I have found her recently wearing a shirt on her legs, standing next to the potty with her pants down ("Mom! Like Eli!") and digging in the refrigerator which she recently got strong enough to open. We had a small party and she loved opening presents. Mary's personality at 2 is sweet and funny. She loves to dance and is very, very determined. She is always a joy. We are having a blast. For party pics click here.