Hallo aus Belgien

We had a spur of the moment chance to go to Belgium today.

Bruge to be exact. I can't begin to describe how fabulous the "little Venice of the North" is. A canal system runs through the whole city and most people ride bikes. We walked into the city from the station which is on the outskirts of town. Bruge is one of the only European cities to have avoided major damage in World War I and II. They say if you are born here...you never wish to leave. I can see why now. Lucky, lucky people.

Bruge is known for their Notre Dame Cathedral which houses Michelangelo's Madonna and Child. The church is under renovation on the outside and I didn't dare show Marie off inside.

We took a canal tour which was wonderful. It whizzed by so many great building...we were anxious to just get out and walk.

This is the site that greets you when you enter Notre Dame. The statue is behind a wall of bullet proof glass.

But, it you are crafty with your camera, you can get a great picture!

We shopped for lace. I can't tell you how often I have said Belgium lace...but never thought I would see and buy it in person. Most people focused on the chocolate shops....

But I found a "Curiosity" shop I could have died in.

I can't stand knowing that there are stacks and stacks of vintage papers I will never get through.

So I just purchased some stunning old post cards. I need to come back and spend a whole day just in here.

Waffle lunch.

I think it is illegal to leave Brussels if you don't eat one.

(We have bags to go to.)