November 11th - Day of Remembrance, Saint Martin and waffles

The 11th of November is the day we remember the deaths of Word War One. That is something everyone knows. There were ceremonies all over the country. Here in Knokke-Heist there was a ceremony at the Heldenplein (square for the heroes). All kinds of officials placed flower at the monument and bands played fitting music. One of them was a Scottish pipe band - and I do love the pipes! Afterwards (and that's typically Flemish) there was a reception for all the inhabitants of Knokke-Heist and those who own a second home there. Hot wine, brandy, chocolate and chocolate milk for the little ones...

But what not so many know is that November 11th is the feast of Saint Martin. In some Flemish towns and villages the good saint comes that day to bring presents to the kids who have been good.
Just like Saint Nicholas in December or Father Christmas.

And to celebrate that occasion (Saint Martin visited our home when we were little) our grandma baked waffles for the entire family. Brussels waffles, with powder sugar on top. Yummie!

We're having waffles too, tonight. For sake of tradition, and to remember our grandparents, who were young people during the first world war and had to suffer through it.