The transition to Brussels has not been a particularly smooth one. It was mostly difficult because of the extreme contrast. We went from a charming town, where everything was walking-distance and we were surrounded by parks and greenery, to the heart of downtown Brussels where the graffiti is as much an artistic expression as the architecture.
Our apartment is on the fourth (top) floor of a building in a long line of very old townhouses. I've been getting my stairmaster workout going up and down all the flights of stairs. Thankfully we're at the top, so there are no feet stomping above us. And the master suite is actually a loft above the main part of the apartment, which is fun.
But to call this setting "urban" would be an understatement. The streets are narrow, people drive like psychos, it's loud, people shout and screech their cars down the street all night long, and there is no greenery in sight.
On the other hand... and this is why I'm on the upswing of my thoughts about this place now... it's a 30-minute walk to the heart of Brussels, which is full of all the fun things to explore and do in a European city. We have a grocery store just around the corner. And I know we will find a wonderful spot for Belgian waffles and Belgian fries before too long.
We've also hijacked a great stroller from the entryway of our building. I haven't seen any children in the building yet, and am working on the assumption that someone left it there. William is aghast that we are "stealing" something, but I am happy to use it until someone tells us different:
And another perk: our bedroom has a lovely set-up for our shoes. I may just have to buy another pair while we are here.
Tomorrow, the kids and I are off to explore the nearest park (a 25-minute walk, but it will be worth it!) and look for yummy treats. Phil is off to Germany again for a couple days for work. I hope to have some exciting things to post about our discoveries soon!
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