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One of the drawbridges that cross the many, many canals all
around Holland |
Winschoterdeip, a saltwater canal that runs past the town of
Sappemeer all the way to the North Sea |
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A typical Dutch house located in the countryside. Notice
how neatly the Europeans keep their house and grounds up. |
Houses are lined up along canals like this all over
Holland. Makes for an easy fishing trip! |
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A shopping corso in Veendam. We had a lovely lunch in the cafe
on the right here eating fish, frites(fries) and croquets. |
The "Gemente" House in Veendam. This is where
official business takes place such as marriage. A couple
typically gets married here first then goes on to a church for the
spiritual ceremony. |
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The ornateness of the architecture of this house in Veendam is
typical of buildings constructed in the first half of this century. |
This house is unusual - there are curtains over the windows. Generally
you'll see only a lace edging at the top or bottom of households. |
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Another of the beautifully maintained houses in Veendam. |
This was a special bell ringer that chimed on the half hour. It was
situated outside a watch shop. |
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Row houses are common and everyone keeps their garden full of
the seasons flowers. |
Situated
in Groningens' center, this building fronts a square with cafes
and shops. |
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| One
of the many church towers in Groningen. |
An
alley leading down a sidestreet to the Groningen market. |
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| Martini
Toren, a famous northern landmark. |
Groningens'
gemente house where over 60 years ago Ingrid's parents were
married after WWII. |
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| Groningens
markets are filled with fresh flowers, all sorts of clothing,
nicknacks and fresh food. |
The
markets get busy and sell an interesting array of goods. |
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| A
Dutch marketplace would be incomplete without a pump organ
playing. We heard one shopkeeper cheerfully sing along. |
The
mechanics of the pump organ are fascinating. There's always
someone with a cup in hand ready to take donations to keep it
"running". |
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| The
songs come on specially punched cardboard running cards. The
black wheel here pumps air into the organ pipes in the correct
order to "make" the tune. |
I
don't know if this group was trying to make us feel at home but a
bit of line dancing was in store for us when we arrived in
Groningen. |
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| Row
houses in Sappemeer. This type of construction is cost
effective and is much needed in a country where land is at a
premium. |
A
retirement living complex in Sappemeer. Ingrid's uncle Pete
lives here and takes pride in looking after his grandson. |
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