Well, we're here in Den Haag, and so happy to be back with family -- this time on the other side of the tree! My dad's relatives mostly live here, and we are being housed by Erik and Ada (Ada is my dad's cousin) and their daughter Kari and her family. Tonight the boys are with me and the girls are at Kari's house.
The trip was uneventful, barring the usual Italian confusion at the airport. They have a beautiful system. The only problem is that they don't actually USE the system. On the other hand, for being airport food, the concessions were delightful -- caprese sandwich (fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil on a crusty roll), freshly squeezed OJ, etc.
When we got to Schiphol, the airport in Amsterdam, Ashley remarked, "It seems so different, so...organized!" I explained that this was no longer Italy. "Oh! Of course!"
The kids quickly discovered that Erik's car is the best, because it contains a neverending well of "dropjes" -- Dutch licorice. Which, if you've never had it, is one of those things you either love or hate. I love it. Michael would rather eat solidified motor oil. Can I say it again? It's scrumptious. And four out of five Hook children agree.
Kari and her husband Fred have an absolutely lovely house. It's only a few years old, and is on several levels. The kids had a great time observing the differences in decorating and architectural styles; completely different from Italy AND from the US. And really beautiful.
I asked what was for dinner. Kari responded, "Naseng." I misheard it to be "nothing"-- when in actuality it was the most scrumptious Indonesian rice dish. Erik had prepared it when we were together once before and the kids (and I!) all love it. And this report is in honor of Erik, since he told me at the airport that he has read every word of the blog, and is really disappointed that we never talk about the food. So, Erik, this one's for you!
Cupcakes are the rage in Europe now. You see them all over Italy as the "big thing" -- and here they were served for dessert! They were delicious, and very beautifully decorated.
James was very excited to see some rabbits on the side of the runway, and asked Erik which sports rabbits like to play in Holland. And then when we were at Kari's house, some ponies trotted by on the street outside!
Tomorrow we'll go to Delft to visit the town. We get to go in a tram! The boys in particular will be happy...
Love,
Alexandra
Please tell me you're going to Madurodam! I LOVE Madurodam and didn't get to go when I was there last time. Pictures please! Were there krapok with your naseng? Mmmmmmm....maybe you could bring a package of those back? Along with some licorice? Because 3 out of 3 Probst children also agree, along with 2 out of 2 adults! Please give our love to Erik, Ada, et al. Enjoy Delft, how fun! Ask Erik to tell what we experienced in the old church last time we were there with him. If he doesn't remember I'll tell you.
ReplyDeleteMichael and I are from the "cold" side of the family which means we are allowed to tell the truth about those black things that the Dutch think are edible! Give us chocolate any time!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you are having a good time in Holland - love to everyone!
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