Member Blogs

Now the monkey comes out of the sleeve!

I love living here in America, love it even more since last November.

I think I come across as pretty authentically American, being a (PTA)mom, wife and entrepreneur, baking cookies, stressing over Christmas shopping, etc. I even speak English with my kids and do so without any noticeable accent (so I am told..).!

I do miss my family and friends who still live in Holland and realize that I have pretty much left Dutch Ymke with them. Ever since our daughter traded her Dutch for English as a Kindergartner, Dutch Ymke has gradually moved back to her homeland, riding her bike, sailing the lakes and celebrating Sinterklaas. Only when my friends and family come to visit us here, parts of her pop up: All of a sudden I'll speak with a Dutch accent and and will say things that make no sense to the American ear... My husband affectionately calls it DEnglish and as a tribute to Dutch Ymke and her family and friends, I'll share it here with you!

The following are a few expressions. You can figure out what they mean and share your ideas through the comment section. Their American counterparts will be posted at a later date...

1. Now the monkey comes out of the sleeve!

2. The bullet is through the church

3. Little house, little tree, little animal

4. I am home from all the markets!

5. He's the best horse in the stable...

6. She's lifted over the horse

7. Stop taking me in the boat!

I hope you shake your liver!