Brussels, Belgium

Everyone says get mussels in Brussels.  We focused more on the sites and the chocolate.  

We started with the Atomium which was constructed for the 1958 World Fair.

We hopped on the metro and went to the city center.

The Manneken Pis was put in place in 1618.  Wikipedia says that it is the

"best-known symbol of the people of Brussels. It also embodies their sense of humour and their independence of mind."  This little guy has close to 1000 outfits/costumes and he is changed several times a week.  

Look at Lukey's face.  You know he is up to something.
Luckily, I didn't capture it on film but he was pulling down
his pants to copy the little boy.

City Centre

We saw a few brides and wedding parties here.  

I thought it was interesting how the people of the
church were dressed

Playing in the fountains

Luke taking a picture

Sam as the photographer

Luke got a hold of the camera again. 

Metro back to the van

Bruges, Belgium

Only 4 1/2 hours away is one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium.   Bruges is full of canals so we started out with a boat ride.  We loved the buildings, swans, bridges and charm.  

The fanciest McDonald's building EVER

HISTORIC CENTRE

Bell Tower and clock
Bells have rang here since 1604

Today there are 47 bells, together weighing about 27.5 tons. 

The bells range in weight from two pounds to 11,000 pounds.

Can I just say the waffles really are better in Belgium.  Ryan thinks they put in more butter.

But either way, YUM!

When my parents saw this picture after they told me about when our family went to Bruges in 1989 and took pictures right here with this windmill.  I vaguely remember it.  I love retracing our steps.