40 morning birds chirped up at 6:15 this morning after a late night at the pub to catch the metro and high-speed train to Brussels, Belgium. Attempts to sleep on the train were futile and the group arrived half-awake at the European Union (note: we stay positive at all times here, hence, half-awake and not half-asleep). After a riveting tour of a sort of subsidiary of European Parliament, we were released into what is my favorite city in the world. Given a healthy two hours for lunch, T-storm(Savir), J-Train(Jimmy), Kiki(Ken) and I posted up at Braserie Belgic. Located on the corner of the most BEAUTIFUL town square in the world, our view matched our food and home-brewed beer in excellence, as well as some truly legit male-bonding. In tradition, most of the group joined up but didn't experience as great of a time as us because they weren't outside. Relentless tours ensued after our splendid lunch. We took a walking tour of Brussels which was as informational as it was fun. We rubbed a statue for good look, saw the famous (original) little boy peeing sculpture and learned about the history of Belgium. We also (more importantly) found the best waffle place in Brussels and had to try it. It did not disappoint. I feel like Caitlin would have loved this. You also may be saying,"What about the chocolate, Brad? I heard the Belgians have great chocolate." You would be correct and if you greet me within the first 24 hours of my arrival you might have the chance to sample a piece, pending Mom's approval. Anyways, we went back to the same restaurant we ate lunch at and sampled three different kinds of the 500 available Belgium beers. In the midst of all this, a Jazz festival was going on. Between sips of refreshing brews, we witnessed an interview of one of these such bands for a Russian television station. It was English and we actually were able to talk to them a little bit before hand. Sadly, the day had to end and we took an uncomfortable, albeit fun bus back to Paris. Tim Deters and I chopped it up most of the way and it was a good 'ol time. Finally back at the hotel, we saw the Eiffel Tower light show and are now just talking and reminiscing on another TERRIFIC day.
Quick Notes:
Belgium is my favorite place in the world: beer, chocolate, waffles and a laid back attitude could entertain me forever.
I miss everyone home, but all the people here are outstanding.
I appreciate the comments, so keep leaving them!
Back to conversation! Blog at you all later!
Brad, this is the experience your Mom and I always hoped you would be having during your "study" abroad. Six credits for sampling Belgian beers is amazing. Had this opportunity been there for me, you'd be calling me Dr. Dad. I also have to compliment you on your writing style. You have an outstanding ability to communicate vividly and with a nice touch of humor sprinkled within. The birds chirping at first light reminds me of the barking dog the mornig after Gwen's wedding and ensuing party at Lake Tahoe. If only we could have packed a shotgun for you. I have taken the liberty of sharing your blog site with some friends. Don't be surprised if some of them post a comment occasionally. I hope you continue to enjoy this time. Try not to spend all your evenings in study at the local library. Have a great time!
ReplyDeleteLove, Dad
Hi Brad! I still can't believe that I am reading about you being in Europe! It all sounds so wonderful, just like what I would expect to see in a movie or on a postcard. Although the the birds chirp here at 6:00a.m. and wake us up, somehow having to a rise to a dreary misty morning of 55* to go to work isn't quite the same! However, your positive attitude is contagious and I will think about the hope of tasting Belgium Chocolate some day in my life. ( That would qualify as one of those things you see that you just know your Mom would love to have as a souvenir!) I know nothing really about Brussels or Belgium so I look forward to lots of pictures when you get home! Weather here is cool - mid to high 60's. All is green and lush, Jodie's lawn needs Caitlin's attention and Osgood continues to try to bolt out the door at night to eat grass. Oh, here's a shock....not. Caitlin got a 4.0 in her spring term. Well, I need to head to bed. Big day tomorrow (already there for you) as it is Erin Newman's wedding.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your day and we all look forward to hearing about your next adventure.
Love you!
Mom
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ReplyDeleteB - my comment for this blog is under "site instructions". ?
ReplyDeleteHi Big B...the traveling man.. wow.what an experience you are having... you are in the trenches of just how big the world is out there and just think,, there is even more. I agree with your Dad, you are a good writer and I like your descriptions and subtle comments... Anyway.. it will be fun to see your pictures and have a first hand narration. What a great time... Hey.. is the beer warm or do they serve it cold. Basically an irrelevant question. The main thing it is tasty and wet... Just got back from a 5 day golf/casino trip.. had success on all fronts.. Do they have casinos there??? We sure are proud of you... Glad you are having such a super time.. Love Old Grandpa O The Red Wings won last night-Gdma
ReplyDeleteSounds awesome man! I am Day 2 into LA and have seen 2 corner street drug dealers, a crazy woman kicked off the bus, and met a couple aspiring young artists...not as polished and exciting as Pari'
ReplyDeleteSo you're going to have to save a piece of chocolate for me as I'm stuck in the jungle until Sept. 2nd...if you do I'll give you the scoop on the script I'm reading for my internship....I'll give you a hint it's another comic book movie...I'm sworn to secrecy right now ;)