Steve has just been over as he couldn't make it for Christmas. I'll be
going out there the last week in January for a visit and yes I will be
taking a wealth of evidence to show I'm returning. ;)



I have to say that I'm really really missing him since he's been gone
and it's only been 3 days. I think Christmas being away from someone
you love is harder than any other time of year. I'm getting his
Christmas presents together and mailing them on Monday but even that
makes me sad!



Today's been yuck as he's off at the cabin again so I won't get to speak
to him til Monday but at least it's the last weekend of the hunting
season. (cue sigh of relief) I have to get my engagement ring from
being resized tomorrow as I've got fat fingers and it didn't fit and I
wish he was here for when I offically start wearing it.



Anyone got any tips for perking yourself up at this time of year when
you're separated? I know that Steve and I are luckier than most in that
we can travel so often and I shouldn't moan as there are lots of people
here far worse off than me.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Hi Sibsie



Yes, I know just how this feels. Last year SecretGarden and I spent
Christmas apart, and it was a long lonely time. I started getting ill
on December 23rd, and on Christmas Eve I was in a real state with a
raging fever and a massive bout of tonsilitis. I spent Christmas day
vomiting into a bucket in an empty house.



yeah, tidings of comfort and joy, right?



Ok, so my point is that although this was the Christmas from Hell we
knew that it could only get better. This year we're going to be apart
again, although we're only a matter of weeks away from getting the visa
and being able to start our life together. Next year she and I will be
together, as you will be with Steve. Tell yourself this over and
over... next year we will be together. This is the last Christmas
you'll spend apart, the last New Year you'll see in without each other.
Make a list and tick things off, the last time you'll ever do this, or
that, or whatever, without being there with each other.



You've got a long journey ahead of you, but there is an end to it and
you only have to do it once. Life is going to start getting better very
soon now....



Cheers,



Mr Pink

~and SecretGarden

~~tick tick tick


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Thanks Mr Pink. That was lovely and just what I needed to hear. I
hate feeling sorry for myself.



SG is a very lucky lady. :)


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
Steve has just been over as he couldn't make it for Christmas. I'll be going out there the last week in January for a visit and yes I will be taking a wealth of evidence to show I'm returning. ;)

I have to say that I'm really really missing him since he's been gone and it's only been 3 days. I think Christmas being away from someone you love is harder than any other time of year. I'm getting his Christmas presents together and mailing them on Monday but even that makes me sad!

Today's been yuck as he's off at the cabin again so I won't get to speak to him til Monday but at least it's the last weekend of the hunting season. (cue sigh of relief) I have to get my engagement ring from being resized tomorrow as I've got fat fingers and it didn't fit and I wish he was here for when I offically start wearing it.

Anyone got any tips for perking yourself up at this time of year when you're separated? I know that Steve and I are luckier than most in that we can travel so often and I shouldn't moan as there are lots of people here far worse off than me.



This is the second Christmas Mark and I spend seperated :rolleyes:, I am
happy though because the wait will be over soon and we will spend next
christmas together with my family!!!:D:D:D

Sibsie girlie get on messenger!!!!!! I miss you


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie

SG is a very lucky lady. :)



That may well be true, but I am the luckiest...



Mr Pink


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by mrpink
That may well be true, but I am the luckiest...


Mr Pink I've gone all girlie and blubby now! I really
shouldn't be left unsupervised.



Tweeks mi MSN no workio. But get your approval and fly via Boston with
me for Superbowl weekend. If you can't manage that we'll make a
definate date for next year. :D


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
I have to get my engagement ring from being resized tomorrow as I've got fat fingers and it didn't fit and I wish he was here for when I offically start wearing it.

Anyone got any tips for perking yourself up at this time of year when you're separated? I know that Steve and I are luckier than most in that we can travel so often and I shouldn't moan as there are lots of people here far worse off than me.



Hi Sibsie,

My turn to respond now seeing as Mr. Pink got to you first.....:)



I understand completely this issue with the ring. He gave me my
engagement ring during my trip to see him last July. It's an antique,
estimated to be about 100 years old---5 diamonds in a lovely old
fashioned setting. Well, being the clutz that I am, in late October I
broke one of the prongs off of it, and had my next trip to see him
coming up the next week. I couldn't bear to think of us being together
without that ring. Mad dash to jeweler who specializes in antique
restoration and they said, "ooh. The prong is the least of your
problems...." *sigh*



Long story short, the entire setting had to be restored and they
estimate that it's more like 150 years old. They rushed the job for
me so that I could pick it up the day before I left and wear it during
the visit.



The point is that I completely understand how that feels to be without
the one tangible token of your love. Sometimes when Im feeling sad or
lonely or missing him greatly I will just look down at it and remember
the day he gave it to me, and how his eyes looked and how I felt at that
moment. He slipped that ring on my finger under the main tower in
Canterbury Cathedral. **swoon** :)



I felt very irrational that week I was without the ring, and I kept
saying to him, "But I don't have my *RING*!" to which he would, in
his calm and comforting manner, reply, "it *will* get better, Love"
and it did.



Don't ever feel strange or bad about coming here and sharing how much
this all hurts, because there isn't anyone who hasn't been through
this in some form or another. I have found that people here
understand this set of emotions so much more than the "outside world"
who doesn't need to deal with the immigration process and its
frustrations. We're here to listen to you, and to empathize, and to
support. Christmas was hellish for Mr. Pink and me last year because
he was SO ill that he had to be hospitalized at one point, and I
wasn't able to speak to him for a few days. Combine that with the
first year of not having my children with me for Christmas and it was
the stuff that nightmares are made of. :(



This year we're on the cusp of something really grand, and he was
right: it *did* get better. And so it will be with you and Steve.
Hang in there, Sibsie........the power of love can do anything you can
conceive of.



Hugs,

~SecretGarden


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by SecretGarden
This year we're on the cusp of something really grand, and he was right: it *did* get better. And so it will be with you and Steve. Hang in there, Sibsie........the power of love can do anything you can conceive of.

Hugs,

~SecretGarden Oh bless your hearts. You're a totally lovely
couple and I'm thrilled you get to be together soon. My very best
wishes and hugs.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie

Anyone got any tips for perking yourself up at this time of year when you're separated? I know that Steve and I are luckier than most in that we can travel so often and I shouldn't moan as there are lots of people here far worse off than me.



I normally try to stay off these sentimental threads but........ Here
goes nothing.



Christmas is not that big of a deal to my husband because even though he
is aware of it, he does not observe Christmas. However, winter seems
like a time that we should be together. Making stew, snuggling
together, keeping the house warm, etc. Phone calls are just not enough
anymore.......



Sibsie,



I can't offer you too much advice because you are the traveller and I
don't really know how you feel. What I am doing though is this
......... Fixing the house for his arrival, making "places" for his
stuff. Planning social activities for when he arrives (a lot of folks
want to "see" us). No matter how much I do, there is always more to
do. My focus is always on what *will be* instead of what *we have
now*. Eyes on the prize! The prize is our love. We are so fortunate
to love and be loved. I wouldn't trade this angst for any angst in
the world. :)



Leslie


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Leslie, is it a full moon in Texas? I see you are on a posting spree
here. Be careful, you might be accused of being related to me. I'm from
Texas also, we might be kin.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by dave dubya
Leslie, is it a full moon in Texas? I see you are on a posting spree here. Be careful, you might be accused of being related to me. I'm from Texas also, we might be kin.





AAAAAAAACCCCCCKKKKKKKK!!!!!! EEEEEEECCCCCKKKKKK!!!!!



I can't see the moon. It is cloudy and freezing rain here now. What
part of Texas are you from? When and why did you leave?



Leslie


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Same here, Leslie. For us it's Eid. Abdo was pretty bummed since I was
in Cairo last year for Eid. He knows about Christmas but, as you said,
he doesn't observe it. Still, he knows my mother and I do so he's
curious (even though I've converted, my Mama hasn't plus it's about
culture and tradition for me as well).



Since we're in limbo, it's difficult for me to do anything. I try to
think ahead - I've bought lots of Wisconsin-appropriate attire for him
for our winters which is all sitting here waiting for his arrival. But,
I don't feel like doing any more as I so nervous about what the vCO will
think of all our evidence when it gets to her desk.



Right now I'm on autopilot. I'm getting up all the decorations for me
and Mama, preparing for a business trip, waiting to hear that my hubby
has sent the package to the Consulate and doing my regular work at the
office. I've only done a tiny bit of shopping and I've made no plans
for the holidays as I really don't feel like socializing at the moment.
I can't think beyond the next two weeks.



Right now I'm missing my baby soooooo much I could just cry. I know I
have to be positive but it's really hard. I was positive going into the
interview but look how that turned out. I'm afraid to be positive now in
case we're in for more rough weather.



Patty Khadijah



Originally posted by Leslie66
I normally try to stay off these sentimental threads but........ Here goes nothing.

Christmas is not that big of a deal to my husband because even though he is aware of it, he does not observe Christmas. However, winter seems like a time that we should be together. Making stew, snuggling together, keeping the house warm, etc. Phone calls are just not enough anymore.......

Sibsie,

I can't offer you too much advice because you are the traveller and I don't really know how you feel. What I am doing though is this ......... Fixing the house for his arrival, making "places" for his stuff. Planning social activities for when he arrives (a lot of folks want to "see" us). No matter how much I do, there is always more to do. My focus is always on what *will be* instead of what *we have now*. Eyes on the prize! The prize is our love. We are so fortunate to love and be loved. I wouldn't trade this angst for any angst in the world. :)


Leslie


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Khadija
Same here, Leslie. For us it's Eid. Abdo was pretty bummed since I was in Cairo last year for Eid. He knows about Christmas but, as you said, he doesn't observe it. Still, he knows my mother and I do so he's curious (even though I've converted, my Mama hasn't plus it's about culture and tradition for me as well).

Since we're in limbo, it's difficult for me to do anything. I try to think ahead - I've bought lots of Wisconsin-appropriate attire for him for our winters which is all sitting here waiting for his arrival. But, I don't feel like doing any more as I so nervous about what the vCO will think of all our evidence when it gets to her desk.

Right now I'm on autopilot. I'm getting up all the decorations for me and Mama, preparing for a business trip, waiting to hear that my hubby has sent the package to the Consulate and doing my regular work at the office. I've only done a tiny bit of shopping and I've made no plans for the holidays as I really don't feel like socializing at the moment. I can't think beyond the next two weeks.

Right now I'm missing my baby soooooo much I could just cry. I know I have to be positive but it's really hard. I was positive going into the interview but look how that turned out. I'm afraid to be positive now in case we're in for more rough weather.

Patty Khadijah



My husband and I won't be together this Christmas or New Year and it's
painful and lonely.



BUT THEN.......



Just when I feel that there isn't a soul on earth that can possibly
understand what this is like for me or what I'm going through, I read
all of these posts.



As I read tears once again start pouring...just reading brings
everything up again...but it's ok. It really does help to read others
feeling and knowing that you know what I feel.



I don't know if I'm making any sense but there's no where to turn
other than here, where anyone of you can express what it is like for
me. And although I haven't a clue as to who you are or where you
are.....I know you all share the same feelings....and know exactly
what it's like for me.



The truth is....it isn't about me...it's about all of us.

All the best to all of you.....Jane


--
jane539


Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Khadija
Same here, Leslie. For us it's Eid. Abdo was pretty bummed since I was in Cairo last year for Eid. He knows about Christmas but, as you said, he doesn't observe it. Still, he knows my mother and I do so he's curious (even though I've converted, my Mama hasn't plus it's about culture and tradition for me as well).

Since we're in limbo, it's difficult for me to do anything. I try to think ahead - I've bought lots of Wisconsin-appropriate attire for him for our winters which is all sitting here waiting for his arrival. But, I don't feel like doing any more as I so nervous about what the vCO will think of all our evidence when it gets to her desk.

Right now I'm on autopilot. I'm getting up all the decorations for me and Mama, preparing for a business trip, waiting to hear that my hubby has sent the package to the Consulate and doing my regular work at the office. I've only done a tiny bit of shopping and I've made no plans for the holidays as I really don't feel like socializing at the moment. I can't think beyond the next two weeks.

Right now I'm missing my baby soooooo much I could just cry. I know I have to be positive but it's really hard. I was positive going into the interview but look how that turned out. I'm afraid to be positive now in case we're in for more rough weather.

Patty Khadijah



My husband and I won't be together this Christmas or New Year and it's
painful and lonely.



BUT THEN.......



Just when I feel that there isn't a soul on earth that can possibly
understand what this is like for me or what I'm going through, I read
all of these posts.



As I read tears once again start pouring...just reading brings
everything up again...but it's ok. It really does help to read others
feeling and knowing that you know what I feel.



I don't know if I'm making any sense but there's no where to turn
other than here, where anyone of you can express what it is like for
me. And although I haven't a clue as to who you are or where you
are.....I know you all share the same feelings....and know exactly
what it's like for me.



The truth is....it isn't about me...it's about all of us.

All the best to all of you.....Jane


--
jane539


Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Khadija

Right now I'm on autopilot. I'm getting up all the decorations for me and Mama, preparing for a business trip, waiting to hear that my hubby has sent the package to the Consulate and doing my regular work at the office. I've only done a tiny bit of shopping and I've made no plans for the holidays as I really don't feel like socializing at the moment. I can't think beyond the next two weeks.

Patty Khadijah





Last night I wrapped presents and rearranged some furniture. I woke up
this morning and can't find my glasses for the life of me. :confused:
I'm getting worried that I'll have unwrap the presents and put all the
furniture back where it was just to find them. :eek:


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
I've gone all girlie and blubby now! I really shouldn't be left unsupervised.

Tweeks mi MSN no workio. But get your approval and fly via Boston with me for Superbowl weekend. If you can't manage that we'll make a definate date for next year. :D



I am up for a meeting no matter where, Leslie are you gonna come visit
us?? I want all of you guys to come!! please Please!!!

:):)


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Hypertweeky
I am up for a meeting no matter where, Leslie are you gonna come visit us?? I want all of you guys to come!! please Please!!!
:):)





By the time I get back to Morocco you girls will be out of Spain. :( I
won't have anybody to go visit. :(


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Leslie66
By the time I get back to Morocco you girls will be out of Spain. :( I won't have anybody to go visit. :(







Where the heck is Morocco anyways???


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by dave dubya
Where the heck is Morocco anyways???





It's a small African country. It is on the northwest tip of the African
continent. It is a stones throw across the Mediterranean Sea to Spain.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by dave dubya

Where the heck is Morocco anyways??? You're kidding right?!


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
You're kidding right?!





www.worldatlas.com



:D:D:D


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
You're kidding right?!





No, Im not kidding. I have heard of it I think. I have no idea where it
is other than its not in North America. I knew that much.



That sounds very interesting, someone from Morocco. It sounds romantic
and exciting. Like a humphrey bogart movie or something


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Leslie66
By the time I get back to Morocco you girls will be out of Spain. :( I won't have anybody to go visit. :(



We could all fly together :) I am going to visit my family at least once
a year (I wish I could afford more than 1 trip a year!!)

So dont you get all sad Leslie:):)


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Leslie66
It's a small African country. It is on the northwest tip of the African continent. It is a stones throw across the Mediterranean Sea to Spain.



:) Good Job Leslie!!


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Hypertweeky
We could all fly together :) I am going to visit my family at least once a year (I wish I could afford more than 1 trip a year!!)
So dont you get all sad Leslie:):)





What time of year do you think you'll be going Hyper? My husband
prefers summer but I prefer spring. I guess we could take seperate
vacations to visit his family. LOL.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by dave dubya
Where the heck is Morocco anyways???



:scared:


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

After last summer I vowed to myself that I would never again
spend August in Spain. If I do go back to visit it'll be within
October to April.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Hypertweeky
:scared:



You beat me too it, Hyper.....



:scared: Don't they have geography lessons in the States?


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Leslie66
What time of year do you think you'll be going Hyper? My husband prefers summer but I prefer spring. I guess we could take seperate vacations to visit his family. LOL.



Christmas!! But If I can afford two trips it will be on summer and
Christmas :):)


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
After last summer I vowed to myself that I would never again spend August in Spain. If I do go back to visit it'll be within October to April.





I'm with you on that, girlfriend!! Too hot to handle. Texas is just as
hot in the summer but we have EVERYTHING air conditioned unlike Morocco.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

http://www.morocco.com/

Ok, I'm one who's really bad with geography. I thought Morocco was in
Spain...I swear! :confused:

After looking at this site, you'll find some awesome pictures of the
area. Leslie, what a trip that must be to visit there! Can you post
some pictures of your visits? I'd love to see them :)





Originally posted by dave dubya
No, Im not kidding. I have heard of it I think. I have no idea where it is other than its not in North America. I knew that much.


That sounds very interesting, someone from Morocco. It sounds romantic
and exciting. Like a humphrey bogart movie or something


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
After last summer I vowed to myself that I would never again spend August in Spain. If I do go back to visit it'll be within October to April.



Lol Sibsie honey.. It wont be that hot next summer. It has never been
that hot indeed:) so dont freak out yet!!!!

:):)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Hypertweeky
Lol Sibsie honey.. It wont be that hot next summer. It has never been that hot indeed:) so dont freak out yet!!!!

:):) I'm just not going to risk it Tweeks. Most nights it was
:impossible to sleep and I thought I was going to die. In fact a lot of
:the time death would have been preferable. It was a stunningly lovely
:day today though. Really warm. :)


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Clare & Steven
http://www.morocco.com/
Ok, I'm one who's really bad with geography. I thought Morocco was in Spain...I swear! :confused:
After looking at this site, you'll find some awesome pictures of the area. Leslie, what a trip that must be to visit there! Can you post some pictures of your visits? I'd love to see them :)



Clint Eastwood though Morocco was Spain too LOL.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

I love Clint Eastwood! :D

Feeling lucky...punk? heehee



Originally posted by Hypertweeky

Clint Eastwood though Morocco was Spain too LOL.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Clare & Steven
http://www.morocco.com/
Ok, I'm one who's really bad with geography. I thought Morocco was in Spain...I swear! :confused:
After looking at this site, you'll find some awesome pictures of the area. Leslie, what a trip that must be to visit there! Can you post some pictures of your visits? I'd love to see them :)





I will Clare but I think I have to wait for my husband to do it. I'm
too stupid and clueless. Just ask Andrew Defuhrer;).



Really, we don't have a digital camera (yet), so we'll scan them in and
I'll post them somewhere. I'll let you know when we get it done. :) It
is a very beautiful, exotic and ancient country. I am completely in
love with it.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Clare & Steven
I love Clint Eastwood! :D
Feeling lucky...punk? heehee



:) He is one of the best, isn't he....


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
I'm just not going to risk it Tweeks. Most nights it was impossible to sleep and I thought I was going to die. In fact a lot of the time death would have been preferable. It was a stunningly lovely day today though. Really warm. :)



It is cold here.. and I love it!!!!!!!!

Sibsie hon.. it wont get that hot again.. I have been living in Spain
for 22 years.. believe me.. I know what I am talking about!!:D:D


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by dutchman2001nl

:) He is one of the best, isn't he.... Holland, The
:Neatherlands and Dutch. What's all that about then? :confused:


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by dutchman2001nl
You beat me too it, Hyper.....

:scared: Don't they have geography lessons in the States?



:D:D I dont think so


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
Holland, The Neatherlands and Dutch. What's all that about then? :confused:



huh? what do you mean?


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
Holland, The Neatherlands and Dutch. What's all that about then? :confused:



What?? :confused:


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

We were lucky that he is Canadian and within a reasonable driving
distance from me. That is if you consider 8 hours from NYC to Ottawa
reasonable. You know over the mountains and through the glen to ......



What we did the year we were apart was to not exchange gifts until we
were together. Lucky for me (or unlucky as the weather would have it)
I arrived in Ottawa on December 31. Jim had a tiny winny christmas
tree on the table (we put out this tree every year to commemorate that
this xmas) and my gifts set around it. He greeted me at the airport
with roses and had made a lovely dinner of pork in mushroom gravy and
potatoes and veggies for dinner and then we opened our gifts. Then
fast forward to countdown time in Times Square (watched it on the
telly). At the 50 seconds before midnight he said he had one more gift
for me and got down on his knee and proposed at the stroke of midnight.
Of course I said yes and we exchanged rings. Yes I got him an
engagement ring as well.



So although we were apart for the actually holiday we had a private one
6 days later.



Then Canada gave us a gift ... the '98 Ice Storm. We lived in Ottawa
for three and 1/2 days without lights or heat.





Originally posted by sibsie
Steve has just been over as he couldn't make it for Christmas. I'll be going out there the last week in January for a visit and yes I will be taking a wealth of evidence to show I'm returning. ;)

I have to say that I'm really really missing him since he's been gone and it's only been 3 days. I think Christmas being away from someone you love is harder than any other time of year. I'm getting his Christmas presents together and mailing them on Monday but even that makes me sad!

Today's been yuck as he's off at the cabin again so I won't get to speak to him til Monday but at least it's the last weekend of the hunting season. (cue sigh of relief) I have to get my engagement ring from being resized tomorrow as I've got fat fingers and it didn't fit and I wish he was here for when I offically start wearing it.


Anyone got any tips for perking yourself up at this time of year when
you're separated? I know that Steve and I are luckier than most in that
we can travel so often and I shouldn't moan as there are lots of people
here far worse off than me.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Hypertweeky

What?? :confused: I mean someone says they are from Holland but
they are called Dutch and then there is The Neatherlands too. Where's
Dutchland or shouldn't someone be called Hollandese?!


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
I mean someone says they are from Holland but the are called Dutch and then there is The Neatherlands too. Where's Dutchland or shouldn't someone be called Hollandese?!



:eek:



Ehhh........ :)


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Rete

At the 50 seconds before midnight he said he had one more gift for me
and got down on his knee and proposed at the stroke of midnight. Of
course I said yes and we exchanged rings. Yes I got him an engagement
ring as well. That's a lovely story Rete. :)



And Tweeks, now do you understand what I meant about the service centres
having a rush on after Christmas. ;)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Neat! You're not stupid Leslie, at least you knew where Morocco was!
Haha :D I'll wait for your pictures with patience ;)



I'll be away from Steven this Christmas too :(. He called the BCIS the
other day to see if they could expedite his I94 renewal so he could
visit for the holidays and they said they'd "see what they could do". I
don't have much faith in that though. We did spend Christmas and
NewYears together last year and it was great! The 6 week job he got in
northern Ontario seems to be on hold because of all of the snow up
there, so it looks like he may be at home for Xmas after all...his home,
not mine :(.

We're hoping for an answer to the 601 in a few weeks, so at least this
keeps me sane for now. Waiting for a visa for a year is nervewracking
to say the least, but the holidays apart makes it that much more
difficult. Thank god for phone cards, cellphones, calling plans,
Netmeeting and messenger! :D How would we have a relationship like this
in the old days?



Originally posted by Leslie66
I will Clare but I think I have to wait for my husband to do it. I'm too stupid and clueless. Just ask Andrew Defuhrer;).


Really, we don't have a digital camera (yet), so we'll scan them in and
I'll post them somewhere. I'll let you know when we get it done. :) It
is a very beautiful, exotic and ancient country. I am completely in
love with it.


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Originally posted by sibsie
I mean someone says they are from Holland but they are called Dutch and then there is The Neatherlands too. Where's Dutchland or shouldn't someone be called Hollandese?!



There is often confusion about the name Holland. Some people call the
Netherlands Holland, but it is not the same. Holland is only a small
part of the Netherlands and like the Dakotas, Carolinas and Virginias,
there are two Hollands.



'North Holland' (capital city Haarlem) and 'South Holland' (capital city
The Hague).

Holland used to be an independent country. It had a 'Count', its own
monetary system (until the 19th century!), its own measuring units and
time. Holland gave up this independence in the 16th century, when it
allied with the Northern and Southern Netherlands against the armies of
the King of Spain. The King of Spain was officially the 'Count of
Holland' at the time and ruled over this whole area.



The main reasons for the war were religious differences, disputes over
taxes and the fact that when some cities wanted to break free, the
King's army was quite brutal to civilians.



Eventually, the Southern Netherlands gave up the fight and war occupied
by foreign forces until 1830. This area is now Belgium. The Northern
Netherlands fought on and won. Then, along with the counties (Holland,
Drente, Groningen, Friesland, Gelderland, Zeeland and Utrecht) became a
free Republic, including the occupied regions of Brabant and Limburg.



All these counties and some new ones together (called provinces today)
make up 'the Kingdom of the Netherlands'.



This day the province of Limburg has a Governor. To say to someone from
Limburg or Friesland that he or she is from Holland, is considered an
insult. They are not! They consider themselves to be from the
Netherlands. They even have their own language.



People from other provinces than North and South Holland will perhaps
not consider it a real insult, but still they are not from Holland.



In summary, Holland gave up its independence a very long time ago, so
calling the Netherlands "Holland", is like calling Great Britain
'Scotland' or 'Wales'.


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Wow, thanks Hyper! Now I know who to ask when my son needs help with
his History and Geography homework :D





Originally posted by Hypertweeky
There is often confusion about the name Holland. Some people call the Netherlands Holland, but it is not the same. Holland is only a small part of the Netherlands and like the Dakotas, Carolinas and Virginias, there are two Hollands.

'North Holland' (capital city Haarlem) and 'South Holland' (capital city The Hague).
Holland used to be an independent country. It had a 'Count', its own monetary system (until the 19th century!), its own measuring units and time. Holland gave up this independence in the 16th century, when it allied with the Northern and Southern Netherlands against the armies of the King of Spain. The King of Spain was officially the 'Count of Holland' at the time and ruled over this whole area.

The main reasons for the war were religious differences, disputes over taxes and the fact that when some cities wanted to break free, the King's army was quite brutal to civilians.

Eventually, the Southern Netherlands gave up the fight and war occupied by foreign forces until 1830. This area is now Belgium. The Northern Netherlands fought on and won. Then, along with the counties (Holland, Drente, Groningen, Friesland, Gelderland, Zeeland and Utrecht) became a free Republic, including the occupied regions of Brabant and Limburg.

All these counties and some new ones together (called provinces today) make up 'the Kingdom of the Netherlands'.

This day the province of Limburg has a Governor. To say to someone from Limburg or Friesland that he or she is from Holland, is considered an insult. They are not! They consider themselves to be from the Netherlands. They even have their own language.

People from other provinces than North and South Holland will perhaps not consider it a real insult, but still they are not from Holland.


In summary, Holland gave up its independence a very long time ago, so
calling the Netherlands "Holland", is like calling Great Britain
'Scotland' or 'Wales'.


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Originally posted by Clare & Steven
Wow, thanks Hyper! Now I know who to ask when my son needs help with his History and Geography homework :D



:D:D Anytime


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Blimey Tweeks!



But where does Dutch come into it?


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Originally posted by sibsie
That's a lovely story Rete. :)

And Tweeks, now do you understand what I meant about the service centres having a rush on after Christmas. ;)



Yes!!!:D:D

Hey Dutch how many times have you checked your online status today?..
Just curious ;)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Clare & Steven
Wow, thanks Hyper! Now I know who to ask when my son needs help with his History and Geography homework :D





Something tells me she copy/pasted that. heee heee heee



Don't hit my hyper!!! (.......ducking and running away now)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Hypertweeky
Yes!!!:D:D
Hey Dutch how many times have you checked your online status today?.. Just curious ;)



Not once.... useless anyway... it's weekend.


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by dutchman2001nl

Not once.... useless anyway... it's weekend. I thought someone
on here said that sometimes they do get updated over the weekend. Oh go
on Dutch. Check it. Pwease. :D



And how's Mrs Dutch?


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
I thought someone on here said that sometimes they do get updated over the weekend. Oh go on Dutch. Check it. Pwease. :D

And how's Mrs Dutch?



I checked... no approval yet :(

Mrs Dutch is home and feeling pretty good, thank you. She'll be calling
in a little while..... :D


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Leslie66
Something tells me she copy/pasted that. heee heee heee

Don't hit my hyper!!! (.......ducking and running away now)



Lol I got it from one of my history lessons in high school :)

I typed it into a word document a while ago because so many people has
asked me the very same question, I know it by heart though:):) (My
teacher was way too perfectionist!!!)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
Blimey Tweeks!

But where does Dutch come into it?





Dutch is the language and the people from the Netherlands.. sibsie :)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Hypertweeky
Dutch is the language and the people from the Netherlands.. sisbie :)



Very good, Hyper...... :)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Hypertweeky

Dutch is the language and the people from the Netherlands.. sisbie :)
I just don't get why it's called Dutch. :confused:

This will just have to remain one of those mysteries I take to
the grave.


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by dutchman2001nl
Very good, Hyper...... :)



Thanks!!! :)

I havent checked my online status in 8 days, I am not gonna for at least
14 more days:)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
I just don't get why it's called Dutch. :confused:
This will just have to remain one of those mysteries I take to the grave.



Dutch is any of the Germanic languages of Germany, Austria, Switzerland,
and the Low Countries. Dutch is the first language of more than 21
million Dutch and Flemish people.


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
I just don't get why it's called Dutch. :confused:
This will just have to remain one of those mysteries I take to the grave.





"Dutch" literally means “The people” (in their language) too :)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by dutchman2001nl
Dutch is any of the Germanic languages of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Low Countries. Dutch is the first language of more than 21 million Dutch and Flemish people.



Very good!!!:D


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Hypertweeky

"Dutch" literally means “The people” (in their language) too
That has totally cleared it up for me Tweeks. I remember asking about
this at school and the nuns didn't have a clue.


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
That has totally cleared it up for me Tweeks. I remember asking about this at school and the nuns didn't have a clue.



Really?? Thats Odd :)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Hypertweeky

Really?? Thats Odd :) Honest Tweeks. I don't know anyone who's
ever been able to tell me why the language was called Dutch in Holland
and the people were also called Dutch.


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by sibsie
Honest Tweeks. I don't know anyone who's ever been able to tell me why the language was called Dutch in Holland and the people were also called Dutch.



Aww I am glad I helped you out!!! :):)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

sibsie <member17406@british_expats.com> wrote in message news:<1115606.1071341855@britishexpats.com>... Originally posted by Hypertweeky "Dutch" literally means ?The people? (in their language) too That has totally cleared it up for me Tweeks. I remember asking about this at school and the nuns didn't have a clue.

Close, it actually means "Of the people".

Dutch is a West Germanic language spoken worldwide by around 20
million people. The variety of Dutch spoken in Belgium is called
Flemish. The Dutch name for the language is Nederlands or less
formally Hollands and Dutch is sometimes called Netherlandic in
English. Some speakers resent the name "Dutch". Afrikaans, spoken in
South Africa, is also a form of Dutch.

History
The word Dutch comes from the old Germanic word theodisk, meaning 'of
the people', 'vernacular' as opposed to official, i.e. Latin or later
French. In the Dutch language, there exist two cognates of this word:
Duits (corresponding to German Deutsch, i.e. modern German) and Diets
(Dutch). The latter is no longer in general use, in part due to its
adoption by 20th century fascists and other nationalists, although the
phrase "van Dietse bloed" is still present in the Dutch National
Anthem (which, incidently, was written by a Fleming).
In early times, the Dutch language as such did not exist. Instead
there were various Germanic dialects spoken in the region, mostly of
(Low) Frankian origin. A process of standardization started in the
Middle ages, especially under the influence of the Burgundian Ducal
Court in Dijon (Brussels after 1477). The dialects of Flanders and
Brabant were the most influential in this time. Also due to religious
unrest many influential Flemings, together with their regional
dialects, fled to the northern provinces, creating an even richer mix.
Finally, around the late 16th century the influence of the province of
Holland became more dominant.

Hey btw! Alright, back to lurking position.

Originally posted by Locus
sibsie <member17406@british_expats.com> wrote in message news:<1115606.1071341855@britishexpats.com>...
Originally posted by Hypertweeky

"Dutch" literally means ?The people? (in their language) too
That has totally cleared it up for me Tweeks. I remember asking about
this at school and the nuns didn't have a clue.

Close, it actually means "Of the people".

Dutch is a West Germanic language spoken worldwide by around 20
million people. The variety of Dutch spoken in Belgium is called
Flemish. The Dutch name for the language is Nederlands or less
formally Hollands and Dutch is sometimes called Netherlandic in
English. Some speakers resent the name "Dutch". Afrikaans, spoken in
South Africa, is also a form of Dutch.

History
The word Dutch comes from the old Germanic word theodisk, meaning 'of
the people', 'vernacular' as opposed to official, i.e. Latin or later
French. In the Dutch language, there exist two cognates of this word:
Duits (corresponding to German Deutsch, i.e. modern German) and Diets
(Dutch). The latter is no longer in general use, in part due to its
adoption by 20th century fascists and other nationalists, although the
phrase "van Dietse bloed" is still present in the Dutch National
Anthem (which, incidently, was written by a Fleming).
In early times, the Dutch language as such did not exist. Instead
there were various Germanic dialects spoken in the region, mostly of
(Low) Frankian origin. A process of standardization started in the
Middle ages, especially under the influence of the Burgundian Ducal
Court in Dijon (Brussels after 1477). The dialects of Flanders and
Brabant were the most influential in this time. Also due to religious
unrest many influential Flemings, together with their regional
dialects, fled to the northern provinces, creating an even richer mix.
Finally, around the late 16th century the influence of the province of
Holland became more dominant.

Hey btw! Alright, back to lurking position.



Internet, amazing.........:)


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Afrikaans, spoken in

South Africa, is also a form of Dutch.



That is true...I remember my old boyfreind (South African) being able to
translate some of my emails from Amsterdam. He was quite the handy one
for that... He had a lovely accent.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by dutchman2001nl
Internet, amazing.........:)



Yes lol


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

So very true. Also why in communities such as Lancaster, Pennsylvania,
the area is called Pennsylvania-Dutch country. When Germans migrated
their country was called Deutsch(e) and some immigration official (who
was probably illerate) wrote "Dutch". The PA-Dutch area was settled and
populated by Germans not by the Dutch.



Rete



Originally posted by Locus
sibsie <member17406@british_expats.com> wrote in message news:<1115606.1071341855@britishexpats.com>...
Originally posted by Hypertweeky

"Dutch" literally means ?The people? (in their language) too
That has totally cleared it up for me Tweeks. I remember asking about
this at school and the nuns didn't have a clue.

Close, it actually means "Of the people".

Dutch is a West Germanic language spoken worldwide by around 20
million people. The variety of Dutch spoken in Belgium is called
Flemish. The Dutch name for the language is Nederlands or less
formally Hollands and Dutch is sometimes called Netherlandic in
English. Some speakers resent the name "Dutch". Afrikaans, spoken in
South Africa, is also a form of Dutch.

History
The word Dutch comes from the old Germanic word theodisk, meaning 'of
the people', 'vernacular' as opposed to official, i.e. Latin or later
French. In the Dutch language, there exist two cognates of this word:
Duits (corresponding to German Deutsch, i.e. modern German) and Diets
(Dutch). The latter is no longer in general use, in part due to its
adoption by 20th century fascists and other nationalists, although the
phrase "van Dietse bloed" is still present in the Dutch National
Anthem (which, incidently, was written by a Fleming).
In early times, the Dutch language as such did not exist. Instead
there were various Germanic dialects spoken in the region, mostly of
(Low) Frankian origin. A process of standardization started in the
Middle ages, especially under the influence of the Burgundian Ducal
Court in Dijon (Brussels after 1477). The dialects of Flanders and
Brabant were the most influential in this time. Also due to religious
unrest many influential Flemings, together with their regional
dialects, fled to the northern provinces, creating an even richer mix.
Finally, around the late 16th century the influence of the province of
Holland became more dominant.


Hey btw! Alright, back to lurking position.


--
Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by Rete
So very true. Also why in communities such as Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the area is called Pennsylvania-Dutch country. When Germans migrated their country was called Deutsch(e) and some immigration official (who was probably illerate) wrote "Dutch". The PA-Dutch area was settled and populated by Germans not by the Dutch.


Rete Amazing stuff. Who knew? Well not me. Obviously. ;)


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Originally posted by ire blues
Afrikaans, spoken in
South Africa, is also a form of Dutch.

That is true...I remember my old boyfreind (South African) being able to translate some of my emails from Amsterdam. He was quite the handy one for that... He had a lovely accent.



Hehe, I am from South Africa, although english speaking by heritage, I
can speak Afrikaans - it is quite similar to Dutch in some ways and
others quite different - or more old fashioned and simple.



btw - my fiance loves my accent (as I love his) although I'm not sure
which part as I have been corrupted by the UK lol



Clare


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dutchman2001nl <member16161@british_expats.com> wrote in message news:<1116756.1071415997@britishexpats.com>... Originally posted by Locus sibsie <member17406@british_expats.com> wrote in message news:<1115606.1071341855@britishexpats.com>... Originally posted by Hypertweeky "Dutch" literally means ?The people? (in their language) too That has totally cleared it up for me Tweeks. I remember asking about this at school and the nuns didn't have a clue. Close, it actually means "Of the people". Dutch is a West Germanic language spoken worldwide by around 20 million people. The variety of Dutch spoken in Belgium is called Flemish. The Dutch name for the language is Nederlands or less formally Hollands and Dutch is sometimes called Netherlandic in English. Some speakers resent the name "Dutch". Afrikaans, spoken in South Africa, is also a form of Dutch. History The word Dutch comes from the old Germanic word theodisk, meaning 'of the people', 'vernacular' as opposed to official, i.e. Latin or later French. In the Dutch language, there exist two cognates of this word: Duits (corresponding to German Deutsch, i.e. modern German) and Diets (Dutch). The latter is no longer in general use, in part due to its adoption by 20th century fascists and other nationalists, although the phrase "van Dietse bloed" is still present in the Dutch National Anthem (which, incidently, was written by a Fleming). In early times, the Dutch language as such did not exist. Instead there were various Germanic dialects spoken in the region, mostly of (Low) Frankian origin. A process of standardization started in the Middle ages, especially under the influence of the Burgundian Ducal Court in Dijon (Brussels after 1477). The dialects of Flanders and Brabant were the most influential in this time. Also due to religious unrest many influential Flemings, together with their regional dialects, fled to the northern provinces, creating an even richer mix. Finally, around the late 16th century the influence of the province of Holland became more dominant. Hey btw! Alright, back to lurking position. Internet, amazing.........:)

Part internet, part personal touch :) It's not a complete copy/paste.

One the other hand, why fix something that isn't broken..

sibsie <member17406@british_expats.com> wrote in message news:<1117113.1071432045@britishexpats.com>... Originally posted by Rete So very true. Also why in communities such as Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the area is called Pennsylvania-Dutch country. When Germans migrated their country was called Deutsch(e) and some immigration official (who was probably illerate) wrote "Dutch". The PA-Dutch area was settled and populated by Germans not by the Dutch. Rete Amazing stuff. Who knew? Well not me. Obviously. ;)


Lots of Dutchmen & Flemings know about this stuff (go figure) :)

For example, I'm pretty sure many Americans don't know the origins of
the word Yankee. Yankee(s) coming from the Dutch "Jan Kees", meaning
as much as "average Joe", or in another context "John Doe".

Another misconception: The Flying Dutchman, the ghostship supposedly
(still) lurking around the Cape, was more likely to have been Flemish
than Dutch, but seeing as the English present in those days couldn't
distinguish between a Dutchman or a Fleming the nationality became
atributed to the default "stereotype" conclusion: It's Dutch. In
reality, it was most likely a Flemish ship. It's like being Austrian,
everyone will presume you're German until you tell them otherwise.

It's a pity how much of history is based on personal conceptions &
presumed truths instead of the facts.

Quite boring actually..

Originally posted by Locus

Quite boring actually.. Not to me. Question is... who was the
original Uncle Sam?


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Originally posted by sibsie
Not to me. Question is... who was the original Uncle Sam?





Samuel Wilson 1766 - 1864 :D


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Originally posted by dutchman2001nl

Samuel Wilson 1766 - 1864 :D Isn't it amazing what you can
learn when you're too lazy to google. ;)


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Originally posted by sibsie
Isn't it amazing what you can learn when you're too lazy to google. ;)



;)


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This will be the second straight year without my clare for chirstmas.
Christmas is usually very hard for me, I have lost a couple of family
members around christmas time so this isn't a very happy time of year as
it is. I'm sure next year will be much nicer with her over here.


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Originally posted by jgatties

This will be the second straight year without my clare for chirstmas.
Christmas is usually very hard for me, I have lost a couple of family
members around christmas time so this isn't a very happy time of year as
it is. I'm sure next year will be much nicer with her over here.
I'm so sorry to hear that. :( I hope you manage to have a
lovely Christmas none the less.



You're approaching the end though so you'll be together again soon.


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Believe it or not, even though my wife has her greencard, we will not
be together this Christmas )-: She actually went home to visit her
family already. Usually I would follow around the 23rd but this year I
have chosen to stay with my family here as my Dad likely will not be
around next year. So I do not want to look back on this year and
regret anything.



My wife misses her family dearly so I did not expect her to miss
Christmas at home in France. The good thing is I will follow on Dec 26
for a 2 week vacation.


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Originally posted by DCMark
Believe it or not, even though my wife has her greencard, we will not be together this Christmas )-: She actually went home to visit her family already. Usually I would follow around the 23rd but this year I have chosen to stay with my family here as my Dad likely will not be around next year. So I do not want to look back on this year and regret anything.

My wife misses her family dearly so I did not expect her to miss Christmas at home in France. The good thing is I will follow on Dec 26 for a 2 week vacation.





You won't reget it DCmark. In the early 90's, I left a nice ocean view
condo in Corpus Christi Texas to go and live next to my parents in West
Texas. My parents had come to visit me, and I was shocked at how bad my
dad looked. I spent a lot of time with my dad before he died in December
of 1995. I have always had much peace of mind and wonderful memories
because of that decision to spend time with my dad.


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Posted via http://britishexpats.com

In article <1e9b67de.0312150257.143ef169@posting.google.com>, Locus
<triumvir@virtualtourist.com> writesFor example, I'm pretty sure many Americans don't know the origins ofthe word Yankee. Yankee(s) coming from the Dutch "Jan Kees", meaningas much as "average Joe", or in another context "John Doe".

I was under the impression that 'Kees' in Dutch was pronounced like
'case' in English? Seems a bit of a stretch for 'Yan Case' (phonetically
speaking) to evolve to 'Yankees'.


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squire
Those are my principles. If you don't like them I have others. (Groucho)