Inspiration, Trends & Recipes
Who is Krampus: The truth about this German Christmas folklore
The holiday season is typically associated with joy, love, and generosity. However, amidst the merriment, a chilling figure from folklore lurks in the shadows, ready to unleash its wrath on misbehaving children. We're talking about Krampus, the horned companion of Saint Nicholas, who has become a fascinating and eerie character deeply rooted in Central European folklore. Join us as we delve into the history of Krampus, tracing its origins, symbolism, and cultural significance throughout the ages.
Christmas Traditions: Germany vs. America
Christmas is “the most wonderful time of the year” and I can’t stress enough how excited I am to experience this beautiful season once again! It’s so great to gather with family, have some delicious food and share gifts together. I was thinking about traditions that we have in our family, and how they are a mix of German and American. There are some big (and little) differences between the two cultures and how Christmas is celebrated… so let’s take a look!
Unwrapping Krampus: The Ultimate Gift Guide for Krampusnacht
Tired of the same old jolly Santas and sugar-coated holiday cheer? Enter Krampus, the dark and mischievous counterpart to jolly St. Nicholas. For fans of folklore and the occult, Krampusnacht is the night to celebrate the wilder side of Yuletide.
Goth Dirndl Trends & Styling Tips
Although goth style is not typically associated with Oktoberfest, you can create a unique and eye-catching look by incorporating gothic elements into traditional Bavarian attire with a little creativity and attention to detail.
The key here is to remember why you are wearing a dirndl. A dirndl is a garment that is a representation of a culture. Whether you have German heritage or not, honoring the traditions are important. But so is your personal style! Let's talk about ways to break the rules while still holding true to authenticity.
German-American’s Guide to Pisces Season
We’ve made it to Pisces season–the last sign of the zodiac before we start over again at Aries! Not gonna lie, I think Pisces season is so emo and can be heavy. Pisces is a water sign without many defenses, and feels so hard. Since Pisces is the last stop of the zodiac, it’s considered the end of the astrological year–it’s sort of December vibes without all the jollyness and festivities. If you’re feeling emotional or tired or want to stay home or feeling things are ending, you’re right there along with the rest of us! This is time to retreat, stay in, find some sanctuary in creativity or inspiration or fantasy! And wait it out until Aries season charges in.
Kinder Approved Käsespätzle Recipe
I often get asked if traveling to Germany with kids is a good idea. I get questions all the time like, “Will my kids like Germany?” (Of course!) or “Are Germans kid friendly?” (Yes! Just mind the noise levels and be respectful.)
German-American's Guide to Aquarius Season
We’ve made it to Aquarius season! Aquarians pride themselves on being weird–you might be noticing a lot of alien-themed memes going around or your Aquarius friends (if you have them–no one can find Aquarians–where are they??) could be doing some extra squawking about how unique they are. This season is one to let your freak flag fly–it’s deep enough into the winter that we’ve all been holed up at home working on something, spending time alone or with our inner circle, and it’s time to gather up your community, either in person or over the internet waves, for some togetherness.
The Deeper Meaning Behind Wearing a German Dirndl
As the granddaughter of German immigrants, I love to incorporate bits of my heritage into my everyday. Since my grandparents past away, I often find myself stepping back, and looking at my life and thinking, "I hope I am making them proud". I pepper my spaces with things that remind me of them and I see them in my children as well.
German-American's Guide to Capricorn Season
Capricorn season starts with the Winter Solstice, the day with the least light and the longest night. Which means Capricorn kicks off the season of light–each night a little more brightness. Two days later on December 23, we get the Capricorn new moon. So the beginning of Capricorn season might feel like beginnings and endings at the same time–Jupiter is ending its run in Pisces, Saturn finishing out its time in Aquarius, and Pluto ending its Capricorn era.
German Christmas Cookies: A Tradition Not to Be Lost
I'm going to preface this post with a disclaimer... I'm not a baker. It's not a talent of mine... I can make a dirndl fit someone in Canada without ever seeing them, but making cupcakes from a box is about as far as my baking skills go. However, I do believe that baking Christmas cookies is a tradition not to be lost. Luckily for me, my soon to be husband likes making cookies! Here is a video from a while back of me attempting a classic German Cookie recipe (start at about :45)
German-American’s Guide to Sagittarius Season
After the moody, introspective Scorpio season, Sagittarius comes in ready for socializing and fun and connecting with the outside world. Sagittarius is a Jupiter-ruled fiery sign, here to make a lot of plans, talk and think about big things, and prioritize fun and movement. The Sun, Venus + Mercury are all in Sagittarius at the kickoff to Sagittarius season, so it’s feeling extra expansive and Jupitarian.
German-American’s Guide to Scorpio Season
Spooky season is upon us! We’ve been ready all month, and the beginning of Scorpio season on October 23, when the Sun + Venus move into Mars-ruled Scorpio will feel extra moody, introspective, and levels up the melancholy of fall. Scorpio season is when we start to turn inwards, prepare to evolve into our winter selves, letting go of summer feelings and all the light that comes with it. This is the season to embrace the coming darkness of winter, in our outer and inner worlds. It’s an astrologically full month, so give yourself a lot of time to process and be aware of how you use your scorpion pincers!