The smell of freshly baked speculoos and butter cookies filled the air. Emilia and Angelo were busy in the kitchen, melting chocolate, while Elia chased Nicco around the living room. Nicco’s adorable giggles filled the room as his bigger sister pretended that she couldn’t catch him. Amanda leaned against the doorframe of the living room, admiring her two youngest. In an hour or so, it was lunchtime. This year, since the kids were very much aware of cultures and traditions, the van Loons were having a mixture of Belgian and Italian food. They were having the traditional Natale lunch. A delicious pasticcio al forno for the first course with a very seasoned braised beef and potatoes as a second course. Soon the scent of cookies were overpowered by the delicious lunch, fresh out of the oven. Amanda was just about to join Niels in setting the table when her phone ‘dinged’ in her pocket. There was a picture of her kobedaughter Maë and a message. Santa is generous this year. It has a little present for you that is 4 years old, bubbly, and loves rainbow kitty outfits lately. Two extra plates for us at the Christmas table? :) Amanda gasped. She still wanted to surprise the kids though, so she quietly went to Niels and showed him the text. She was bubbling over with excitement. Maé must be so big by now, Kobe. “I’ll get two extra plates,” Amanda said. “If the doorbell rings..” She beamed and set off for the kitchen.
The table was set and the kids’ hands washed. Amanda was just about to place Nicco in his high chair at the table when the doorbell rang. “Elia,” Amanda called out. “Let’s go see who’s at the door.” She winked at Niels and took Elia’s hand. Soon, the door was opened and Elia’s excited squeals filled the atmosphere. Lots of hugs and kisses were exchanged and then Amanda said, “Come, come. Lunch is waiting. You two are just in time.” Niels took Maë’s and Daphne’s coats while Amanda led them to the dining room. “We’re having Italian pasticcio al forno for lunch, but what until you see the Kerststronk we made for dessert.” “It's Belgian! Like daddy!” Elia excitedly pointed out. “There are cookies too! And I got a new doll. And--” “Elia, sweetie,” Amanda gently interrupted. She smiled widely at her little one. “I know you’re really excited to see your kobesister, but you’ll have lots of time to catch up today.” The lunch went by smoothly, aside from Nicco’s usual messes. But soon, it was time to bring out dessert. “Maë we already shipped your gift off to London so we don't have one for you right now.. But how about if you get an extra slice of the Kerststronk, hmm?”
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Amanda at a GlanceNames: Amanda Pontremoli, Amanda van Loon Archives
August 2017
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