Au Revoir (french); Tot ziens (flemish); Sayonara and Aloha L.A! ______________________________


Hi everyone!

As most of you know, Ray has accepted a 2-year assignment with Toyota's European Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. For those of you who do not know, Belgium is located next to France, Germany and the Netherlands. The home of NATO and the European Union, it is considered the "gateway to Europe" with its easy access to many European countries. (Hint, hint--good excuse to come and visit!)

Ray started his new position in February, 2008. The girls and I arrived here in late March. We are living just outside the city of Brussels in the commune of Tervuren, Belgium.

Although we are sad to temporarily leave our family and friends, we are excited for this adventure. What an opportunity to leave our tiny box and experience life outside of America!

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Hanging out with storks at Planckendael



In an effort to enjoy the beautiful sunny weather, DS and I took advantage of another school closure day and went to Planckendael Zoo/Animal Park near Mechelen this past Friday. We spent an enjoyable day strolling through the 40 hectare (100 acre) park with friends and checking out the several animals (over 1000) who live here.

DS and Jo in front of the Oriental small-clawed otter exhibit


Interestingly, instead of typical peacocks, there are white storks which roam freely throughout. As such, you will see their large nests in trees, roof tops, and even on some of the animal enclosures.

One of several stork nests scattered throughout the park


The park is divided into continents -- Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America and Oceania (Australia), each with numerous endangered species from each region. The park prides itself on its Centre for Research and Conservation in which portions of the proceeds go towards scientific research for animal welfare and conservation.

Jo, DS, LD, and Tori in front of the new Savannah exhibit


Cuddly Koala Bear

Indian Rhino

In addition to its animals, the park entertains the young (and young-at-heart) with several playgrounds, a rope-pull river raft, suspension bridges, and our favorite -- a huge climb-through complex suspended high up in the trees! We had so much fun, we went on twice!



Whoa
-- 14 metres off the ground!

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