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!

Friday, December 12, 2008

Christmas at the Grand Place



The Grand Place is one of our favorite spots in all of Belgium. Although the traffic is horrendous and the parking can be annoying, we still enjoy visiting this famous tourist attraction. Especially during the Christmas holiday season, when all the lights are lit up at night, it is truly magical.



So, last night, Ray and I took the girls to show them how the Grand Place does Christmas. After a wonderful dinner at Chez Leon (one of the girls' favorites), we walked to the central square and we were dazzled!! We hung out just enjoying the beautiful music and watched the light show illuminate the guild houses, the town hall and the huge Christmas tree.





So, afterwards, we walked over to Place Saint Catherine's to see the Christmas Market. After three rides on what are probably the most unique carousels anywhere (check out the pics!), as well as snacking on Master Waffle Maker Philip's yummy waffles, it turned out to be a wonderful evening out.

Philip and DS trade hats


Some "wild" carousel rides...










But, unfortunately due to the late hour and since the next day was a school/work day, we had to head on home. But we were 'oh-so-happy' to see the Grand Place during Christmas time...

And, the smiles on the girls' faces as they went to bed that evening was, well... priceless.

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