My name is Heidi. I am named after the main character of Johanna Spyri's classic novel "Heidi." It is a heart-warming tale about a young orphan who is sent to live with her stern grandfather in the idyllic Swiss Alps. Heidi finds joy in the simple mountain life and her cheerful nature wins over her grandfather’s heart and those around her. Since the book was publishes in 1881 it has achieved lasting popularity worldwide as a cherished classic in children's literature. It is a timeless story of resilience, kindness, and the healing power of nature.​

​I am wearing a Swiss ‘tracht’ or a traditional folk costume. There is a great variety of trachts in Switzerland, depending on the region. Each region also has a different tracht for different occasions such as: to wear while working, to wear during the week, to wear on Sundays, to wear at weddings or festive occasions and so on. At their peak, there were around 800 distinct trachts in Switzerland.  There is richness and diversity that brings joy to the eyes. Mine is inspired by the style of Bern (the capital of Switzerland).

Photo credit: B. Scheidegger

I am, as you would have guessed, a Swiss cow – one of the most recognizable Swiss symbols, along Swiss watches, chocolate and cheese. There are a number of beautiful Swiss cow breeds. I am a Braunvieh (brown cattle). I am light brown, with creamy-white muzzle and dark-blue eyes that help me with the strong sun in the mountains. I am often seen on a mountain hillside grazing for most of the year. Swiss clearly love their cows and you can see cows adorned in flowers at various festivals.  

Heidi has two beloved goats named Little Swan (Schwanli) and Little Bear (Baerli), who are an integral part of her life in the picturesque Swiss Alps. These goats, cared for by her friend Peter the goat herder, provide Heidi with companionship and joy. They accompany her on her daily adventures in the mountains, and symbolize Heidi's deep connection to her alpine home and her simple, happy life there. Can you find all the goats on my apron? How about the tiny Swiss flag?

The silhouettes on my apron are a reference to the Swiss art of paper cutting, known as ‘Scherenschnitt’. It is a traditional craft that involves creating intricate designs by cutting paper with scissors or knives. Originating in the 16th century, this art form often features scenes of rural life, nature, and folklore. Swiss paper cutting is renowned for its precision and detailed work, with each piece meticulously crafted to tell a story or depict a cultural motif. Today, it remains a cherished tradition, celebrated for its delicate beauty and the skill required to produce these stunning visual artworks.

The Swiss edelweiss is a small, white flower that grows in the rugged alpine regions of Switzerland. Symbolizing purity, bravery, and rugged beauty, it is an iconic emblem of Swiss culture and heritage. Traditionally, edelweiss has been used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is also featured in Swiss folklore, songs, and as a national symbol, often found in souvenirs, logos, and military insignia. Additionally, the flower is associated with romance and adventure, frequently given as a token of love and admiration.