The first day of school is a milestone in the lives of German first graders. Parents and grandparents accompany the new pupil to school where after welcoming speeches, songs, "photo calls", and with "Schultuete", School Cone, held tightly, it is time for school life to begin.

Breaded meat cutlets in Germany are 'Schnitzels', and traditional German Schnitzels are not only easy to make, they have sauces or variations named after everything from 'Barons' and 'Gypsies' to 'Hunters' and 'Blue Ribbons'.

Their original inspiration was an Emperor's love of meat covered with gold leaf. Germany’s Schnitzel are thin breaded cutlets, delicious, simple to make, and in all their variations, different meats, vegetarian alternatives, sauces, are one of Germany’s favorite meals.

Rumtopf has been a German specialty from at least the 17th century. A heady concoction, made with soft seasonal fruit conserved in sugar and rum from late spring until early autumn, it's a treat for the winter months and an indispensable part of "end of year" holiday celebrations.

Rote Grutze made from summer's berries is one of Germany's most popular desserts. Light, refreshing and easy to make, it was for centuries simple 'every day' home cooking in northern Germany, but now the 'fruit salad with a difference' is a menu favorite even in upscale restaurants.

A spicy Roasted Pumpkin Soup from Germany, ideal for all those chilly autumn and winter days which call for warm, comforting and tasty seasonal food. Especially as it is also colorful, vitamin packed and nutritious.

With an original title of Mauerhase - A Hare That Lives by a Wall, this Oscar nominated movie uses the viewpoint of Berlin's death zone rabbits as a parable for the lives of many East German and USSR citizens, giving a different perspective on socialism, the fall of the wall and end of communism.

Pumpkin left over and no idea what to do with it? Pumpkin Potato Pancakes, traditional Germany's "Rieberkuchen" with pumpkin added, will use up extra pumpkin but also become a family favorite without it. Or if you simply want a different autumn potato recipe how about Apple Potato Pancakes?

The Christian festival began with Palm Sunday and Easter and ends with Pentecost and Corpus Christi, celebrated in German speaking areas with a colorful mix of religious, secular and pre-Christian traditions, ranging from devotional processions to decorated oxen.

In the days of a communist East Germany meals were planned around what was available that day. Queues were long and legendary and a banana was to be seen on television but not in a shop. Appetizing and healthy food was served nevertheless, and here are some favorite recipes from the time.