Hey everyone! It's Kelly MissesVLOG here, and today I want to talk about something that is very close to my heart - exploring my Polish and German heritage. As you may know, I come from a mixed background with roots in both Poland and Germany. And let me tell you, it's been an incredible journey diving deeper into the rich history and traditions of these two countries.
Embracing My Roots
Growing up, I was always aware of my Polish and German ancestry. My parents would often share stories about our family history during dinner time or special occasions. However, it wasn't until recently that I truly started appreciating the importance of embracing where we come from.
Connecting with Family
One aspect that has played a significant role in this exploration is connecting with extended family members who still reside in Poland and Germany. Through social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram, I have been able to establish relationships with distant relatives whom I had never met before.
The power of technology allowed us to bridge the geographical gap between us and exchange stories about our shared roots. It's fascinating how much we can learn just by having conversations over video calls or exchanging messages online.
Exploring Traditional Cuisine
A great way for me personally to connect with my heritage has been through trying out traditional Polish and German cuisine. Food plays such an important role in culture - it tells stories through flavors!
On days when nostalgia hits hard, nothing beats preparing some classic pierogi from scratch using recipes passed down through generations on my mother's side of the family.
And let me tell you guys: there is nothing more satisfying than biting into those soft dumplings filled with deliciousness! Whether they're stuffed with cheese and potatoes or sauerkraut mushrooms – each bite takes me back home!
German food also holds a special place in my heart (and taste buds!). From bratwursts sizzling on the grill at summer barbecues to mouthwatering pretzels and sauerkraut, every dish is a celebration of flavors.
Celebrating Festivals
Another way I have been able to immerse myself in my Polish and German heritage is by celebrating traditional festivals. These cultural events are not only fun-filled but also provide an opportunity for me to learn more about the customs and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
For example, Oktoberfest in Germany is renowned worldwide as a time for joyous celebrations with beer flowing abundantly! The vibrant atmosphere, lively music, and colorful costumes make it an experience like no other.
Similarly, in Poland, there are numerous festivals throughout the year that offer insights into the country's rich culture. From Święto Trzech Króli (Three Kings' Day) to Andrzejki (St. Andrew's Eve), each festival brings its own unique traditions and rituals that I am eager to participate in.
Learning the Language
Of course, one cannot fully embrace their heritage without learning the language spoken by their ancestors. Over the past few years, I've dedicated myself to learning both Polish and German languages - although admittedly my skills still need some work!
But let me tell you guys – being able to communicate with family members who primarily speak these languages has brought us even closer together. It feels incredibly fulfilling when we can converse effortlessly without relying on translations or struggling with miscommunications.
Preserving Family Traditions
As part of exploring my Polish-German ancestry further, I've made it a point not only just about embracing our roots but also preserving certain family traditions. These practices hold incredible sentimental value as they connect us directly with our ancestors who once followed them diligently. Whether it’s making homemade Christmas ornaments or gathering around the table for Easter brunch, these activities serve as reminders of where we come from and help maintain strong bonds within our family unit.
So, my dear viewers, I hope this journal entry has given you a glimpse into the incredible journey I've been on while exploring my Polish and German heritage. It's an ongoing process that continues to enrich my life in countless ways.
Remember, no matter where we come from or what our background may be, we should always take pride in our roots and celebrate the diversity that makes us who we are. Let's embrace our heritage together!
Until next time, Kelly MissesVLOG