Category Archives: Holland

Christmas Odyssey

Posted on 19/12/2011 by pier@visualid.com

This time last year, our part of Europe was in the icy grip of winter, and many Irish living abroad were struggling to make it home in time for Christmas. Ironically, I found myself “at home” in Holland for my … Continue reading →

Posted in Holland, Human Experience, Ireland | 3 Comments

Language of the Upperlands

Posted on 01/06/2011 by pier@visualid.com

For many years, the small seaside town of Greystones was home to the Dutch literary and artistic genius Marten Toonder. His contribution to the Dutch language has been considerable and it is unfortunate that the English speaking world will never … Continue reading →

Posted in Holland | 3 Comments

Culture Shock

Posted on 19/05/2011 by pier@visualid.com

Having spent more than half of my life living in a foreign country, I have almost forgotten which of the differences between my native Holland and my adoptive Ireland struck me most when I first arrived on these shores. Of … Continue reading →

Posted in Holland, Ireland | 1 Comment

Letter from my Grandparents to my Mother

Posted on 05/05/2011 by pier@visualid.com

Today is Liberation Day in the Netherlands, when the Dutch celebrate the end of the occupation by Nazi Germany, 66 years ago. At the time, my mother was living and working in Waagenberg, in the southern part of the country, … Continue reading →

Posted in History, Holland, Human Experience | Tagged , | Leave a comment