Mother Hulda

Frau Holle

Once upon a time, there was a diligent girl who found her way to Mother Hulda in the heavens. There, she faithfully carried out all manner of chores: she took the bread from the oven, shook the apples from the tree, and when she made Mother Hulda's bed, snow fell upon the earth. As a reward for her faithful service, she was showered with pure gold and henceforth known as "Goldmarie." Her lazy and envious sister then followed her to Mother Hulda, hoping for the same reward. But because she neglected all her duties and was sulky and idle, pitch rained down upon her instead. And from that day on, everyone could see: she was truly "Pitchmarie."