Charades in Belgium

Final Friday

2009-01-02T00:05:00.001-06:00

Here is the link to my new and improved blog. Click herehttp://carnetofcalifornia.blogspot.com/

Hope you all enjoy it and visit often.

Au revoir,

Jill, Joe and Foxy

The End

2009-01-01T00:12:00.002-06:00

The end of one chapter and the begining of another new year. Tomorrow the link to my new blog.

Our boxes waiting to be loaded

Our house with the lift and boxes coming down

The guys loading the container-no we didn't fill the 40 ft, so we could have shopped some more.

movers on the second floor

All gone - just the gorgous marble fire place and the crystal chandlier left- we miss you our belle maison.

Final Dinner

2008-12-31T00:35:00.000-06:00

Here are some photos from one of our last dinners out at Vincent's. Sorry they are backwards I'm on Joe's laptop and not sure how to work it.

Foxy sleeping on my lap during dinner - she really misses going to resturants with us.

My dessert - yummy yummy

Joe had muscles

The guys preparing the food

My shrimp in garlic and butter

The walls were coved with tiles

We had a great dinner and enjoyed every second of it.

Party

2008-12-31T00:26:00.000-06:00

Hope you all enjoy your New Year's Eve. It is one of my favorite nights. I'm not sharing yet what I have planned for us right now.

Please all be safe if you are going out, and I don't think I need to remind you not to drink and drive.

house

2008-12-30T00:23:00.000-06:00

Hello, Just a quick note to say we still do not have a house. Joe is starting to freak out and I will the first or second week of January. keep your finger crossed for us.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-24T00:05:00.001-06:00

Hope you all have a great christmas and a very happy new year. My holiday cards are going to be alittle late this year. Oh well!

Hopefully next week I will get my computer and show you my final photos from Belgium.

Driving

2008-12-23T00:35:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday I started out on my drive from Minneapolis to LA with my dog and parents.

First stop was Omaha, it was -25 below with the wind chill. It was so cold that foxy would only go a couple steps out of the hotel to do her stuff. I know she was thinking I thought you said we were moving to a warm place mom.

A very quick stop to see Kate and Anne and my parents visited their friends. Then the fun began, the snow was moving into Flagstaff, AZ which was where we were suppose to spend the night but we tried to make it to Phoenix. I say tired because along the way I got a speeding ticket in New Mexico. Yes me who doesn't speed and follows the rules. This was my very first ticket and I got it for going 45 in a 35 zone but I wasn't going 45 maybe 40. My dad was surprised i didn't get a warning but I wasn't going to argue with the man even though he was wrong.

Then 3 hours from Phoenix we ran into snow/sleet/rain on a single lane highway that was pitch black so we decided to spend the night in Sow Low, AZ. In the morning I had to clean my car off because it was covered in snow. Again Foxy was thinking mom you said warm weather.

Ahhh the last day of driving. It started raining after Phoenix and the traffic was terrible with Semi trucks passing and then spray so bad you couldn't see the road. Then in Palm Springs the high way signs were covered with snow so bad that you couldn't even see what they said. Getting closer to LA we saw that highways were closed due to flooding and snow. Once we go to Valencia/Santa Clarita we found out that the #5 highway was closed just after the exit we took because of snow.

In the morning on every local channel they were talking about the snow in the area. Not to mention Las Vegas. All the mountains around us are covered in snow. Even the mountains behind the hollywood sign.

After 4 days on the road we made it safe and sound to California.

Manic Monday

2008-12-22T00:14:00.000-06:00

hello everyone,
We all made it safe and sound to CA. Since this was us you know there were minor and major problems.

The movers the first day packed up there van keys - so when we get our stuff we will have to keep an eye out for some keys.

Friday when we got to the airport to leave Brussels to come back to the US we had a major problem... US Airways would not accept Foxy to fly international of course they told us this after we were all checked and our baggage was already sent to the plane. After some couple hours of scrambling and some major stress we got a flight. Foxy & I flew Northwest and Joe took the US Airways flight. It wasn't our fault Joe's company booked it through there corporate travel company. We double check when they made the reservations due to not flying them before - and they said everything was o.k. Not sure why they didn't try and call us or contact the travel agent before we arrived and got checked in for our flight...

Tomorrow the stories of driving across the countries.

Fun Friday

2008-12-19T00:01:00.003-06:00

Checking out the stars & house hunting today.

Thanks for the memories

2008-12-18T00:46:00.001-06:00

Merci and Au Revoir Bruxelles.

Ballet

2008-12-17T00:28:00.001-06:00

Saturday night before we left we had tickets to the ballet. It was the first time for both of us attending a ballet. It was good but both of us were very tired and the stage lights were so hot we thought we were going to die.

My ballet outfit. I could not find the shoes I wanted to wear so I settled for my boots. (only the second time I have worn a dress in Beligum - it was pouring and cold that night and we had to walk a ways back to the car after. I looked at it this way I will not have to walk in heels on the cobbles again for a long time )

Soleil

2008-12-16T00:42:00.002-06:00

If you can believe this...I bought these in Brussels right before we left in a snow storm. The man thought I crazy wanting to look at sunglass in a snow storm. I will get a lot of use out of them in LA.

LAX

2008-12-15T00:07:00.001-06:00

Welcome to LAX - I'm driving cross country with my parents to LA and Joe started working today.

California

2008-12-12T00:04:00.003-06:00

HERE WE COME!

We are packed up today and heading out but please check back I have posts going for a good 2 weeks (at least till I get a computer and I will let you know the name of my new blog in California)

Music on the street

2008-12-11T00:21:00.001-06:00

The organ grinder came to our neighborhood on the 6th of December. It may be corny but I liked when he came though our hood.

Goodbye Belgium

2008-12-11T00:14:00.003-06:00

Well,

It had to happen eventually. You all are aware by now that we are departing Belgium tomorrow and ironically this is also my first post to the blog. As we pack our belongings and I work diligently to finish off the French wine collection that was so carefully assembled over the last 2.5 years, I thought it was necessary to reflect a bit on the adventure.

To a committed type-A control freak, Belgium remains a bit of a wonderful conundrum even after two-plus years. I have learned to accept a few degrees additional randomness in my life whether it is the ever changing weather, sudden closing of a store due to "holidays", my total ignorance of local events or the mysterious police ticket that requires countless visits to the local (and exceedingly friendly) precinct to resolve. I have no doubt that I will quickly re-acclimate to life in America but also know that I will soon find the occasion to reminisce how it was "done in Belgium". It is a given that the first time a bubbly American server comes to my restaurant table and introduces themselves as "hi my name is xxxxx and I'll be your server" I will long for a surly Belgian "professional" who demands that I order the absolutely delicious specialty of the night, serves the correct wine for my meal without asking and perfectly times the main course so that it does not arrive on top of the appetizer - all with no expectation for a tip.

It would not be appropriate to leave Belgium without some kind of list. For those of you who have spent any time here you will recognize the following. You know when you've been in Belgium too long when ...

-You always stop your car for traffic from even the tiniest little road from the right.
-You consider breaking the speed limit normal, and honk and flash at people who don't.
-You catch yourself ordering a "Supplement Frites" with every single dish you have in any kind of restaurant.
-You give other foreigners lectures on the difference between fake and real monastery- produced beer.
-You don't drink the last two centilitres of a Westmalle trippel.
-You never wear any colour brighter than dark green. You automatically assume anyone who does is either:
a. Dutch
b. Scandinavian
c. American or
d. Extremely rude
-Just one day without rain even in July and August can make you happy.
-You consider it normal that even the train to and from the airport has announcements in both Dutch and French, but not in English. You don't react when all the foreigners storm out of the train at the announcement of Brussels North when coming from the airport.
-You think it looks nice when the type of pavement tiles in front of each house are different, and you don't mind falling over lopsided tiles occasionally.
-You take dog-shit on the pavement as just another challenge on you daily walks.
-You keep three colours of bin-bags for different kinds of waste, and remember which days to put out which kind of bag on the pavement in front of your house.
-You have given up on any sensible political discussion on the language divide in general and the Brussels Capital Region and the future of Belgium in particular.
-You consider it perfectly normal when the names of towns on road signs change from French to Dutch and vice versa every 5 or 10 kilometres of motorway.
-You have understood that the hassle of monthly visits to the municipality to obtain papers or residence permits is reserved for recently arrived foreigners who move every 6 months, and you therefore don't complain over your own annual visit where you wait in line for an hour or two.

You know what I am talking about!

I am thankful for the opportunity to have worked and lived in Belgium - for the opportunity to experience a new country, a new culture and a new way of looking at life. I can honestly say that my eyes have been opened a bit wider and that I am better for the opportunity. That said, I am most thankful for how wonderful Belgium was for Jill. I will miss the reports of who was met on the daily dog walks (we miss you Max), what European vacation is in the queue, what treasures were acquired on the shopping expedition and what "local" she engaged in another round of CHARADES.

Thank you Belgium and thank you Jill for another wonderful chapter in our life.

Koln treasure

2008-12-10T00:09:00.001-06:00

These are my treasure that I got in Koln. I'm not a big fan of the whole house thing, but for some reason I really like this one. You are suppose to put incense in the house then it comes out he chimney.

The little animal I just got cause I loved his tail.

Have lunch with me

2008-12-09T00:09:00.002-06:00

With us traveling and trying to limit the grocery shopping we don't have any food in the house- so I went lunch, wish you were here with me...

Hope this place is o.k. with you for lunch

Hot Chocolate and Water

Tartine (bread) with artichoke paste and prosciutto

Thanks for joining me for lunch.

friends & food

2008-12-08T00:05:00.001-06:00

My friend Rosa had a going away lunch for me last Friday. She made traditional Peruvian food. She also invited some of her other friends. The countries involved in this lunch Peru, Cuba, Nicaragua and Vietnam. I think that when I'm done with this stint I should be a UN ambassador or help Hillary with the Secretary of state job. (congrats Hillary)

cheese, olives and nuts spread with some kind of brandy drink - yes there was dancing after lunch - not to mention very fast speaking spanish.

First course - potatoes, lettuce, eggs with a spicy cream sauce.

Rosa's husband meeting the King

blogger comment

2008-12-06T04:41:00.003-06:00

She deleted the post - it is to difficult to tell you where the comment is. Sorry.

Oh my gosh...I have been checking out this girls blog from time to time and I can't believe the comments she had gotten from a question and answer session about her choice of school and her weight (which I can relate too)

Check it out if you want. Look for the entry on dec 4 click

Heist

2008-12-06T00:13:00.002-06:00

When we have stayed in Paris for NYE we stayed just north of Harry Winston by the police station. The circle is the Champs-Elysees. Just down from Harry is where I got my Louis purse.

PARIS, France (CNN) -- Armed robbers -- some dressed as women -- have stolen an estimated €80 million ($102m) in jewels during a brazen raid at a central Paris store, police say.
Robbers dressed in drag stole more than $100M worth of jewelry from a Harry Winston store in Paris.
Police told The Associated Press three or four thieves swiped rings, necklaces and luxury watches from display cases at the Harry Winston store near the Champs-Elysees.
The store is also just around the corner from a police station.
Police said at least two of the thieves were men dressed as women, they spoke a foreign language and knew the employees' names.
Between 10 and 15 people and staff were in the store when the robbers entered late Thursday afternoon.

CNN's Jim Bittermann said staff first thought they were clients. However, the robbers then drew their guns.
He said the robbers directed staff to empty jewels from secret hiding places and the safe.
They overturned display cases and emptied the shop of nearly all its stock.
The store is situated on the fashionable Avenue Montaigne and was robbed little more than a year ago.
That time up to five thieves stole an estimated €20 million ($25 million) worth of jewelry. The cheapest piece they took was worth €2,000 ($2,500) and the most expensive €3.2 million ($4 million).

Last year's raid was considered the largest jewel theft in France for a long time, the September 2004 theft of two diamonds worth an estimated €14.5 million ($18.5 million) from a Paris antique fair coming closest.

drama, drama, drama

2008-12-05T05:33:00.003-06:00

So last night I just had a feeling there was something wrong with our move. So I emailed the moving company today. Well they didn't put us down to be moved on Monday. Hello we have to be out of the country on friday we have plane tickets. Not to mention I want to go to Paris on Thursday.

To make a long story short no Paris but we will get pack and moved next week.

All I got to say is LA better be damn good. (I think the gods are saying stay in Brussels)

Fun Friday

2008-12-05T00:04:00.000-06:00

This is a ad stating the skating rink is open at Place Sainte Catherine. I will miss the ads in Europe very much they are very created and don't worrying about the political correctness. (however some days you see nudity when you least expect it)

OHH it is also sponsored by the french speaking area of Belgium. (Wallonie not sure how you can miss that part-the rest is small print)

song

2008-12-04T07:00:00.002-06:00

I have been singing the part of a christmas song all day to day..."oh the weather outside is frightful"

At least this weather is making it a little easier to leave next friday. (the last 3 days it has been cold with snow then rain then snow then rain. I came home today soaked and cold. Thank God I had my rain/snow proof coat on)

Floods

2008-12-04T00:08:00.001-06:00

This is why I convinced Joe to see Venice in May and not our usual fall/winter vacation. I can't imagine wading though this water with suitcases and a dog.

Piazza San Marco

By the Rialto bridge.

Venice has suffered its worst flooding in 22 years, leaving some parts of the historic Italian city neck-deep in water, reports said Monday.
Water burst the banks of the coastal city's famed canals, leaving the landmark Piazza San Marco -- St Mark's Square -- under almost a meter of water at one point, news agency ANSA reported.
Strong winds pushed waters to a high of 1.56 meters (5 feet 2 inches) at 10:45 a.m. local time, prompting the city government to issue warnings to the public, the agency said.
The flood level began to drop soon afterwards, prompted by a change in the direction of the wind.
Previous highs include 1.58 meters in 1986 and 1.66 meters in 1979, the news agency said.

More photos at CNN.

http://edition.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/europe/12/01/venice.floods/index.html?iref=24hours#cnnSTCPhoto

Teeth wash

2008-12-03T05:09:00.002-06:00

So I thought I would have Foxy's teeth cleaned one last time here before we go. Basically because they don't put her to sleep to clean them. Well he pulled 7 teeth this time, before it was 5 so that is Foxy's contribution to Belgium all her teeth. Oh my poor baby.

Now she is so doped up it is terrible she is falling down and walking like a drunk.

So sorry baby girl that you teeth are missing.

Christmas Market

2008-12-03T00:02:00.001-06:00

So with a list a mile long of stuff that needs to be done, emails like crazy of people coming over to inspect things on the house and my days in Brussels being very limited…I went to Koln, Germany on Monday. (no Paris but maybe on Thursday cross you finger)
Here are some photos from the Christmas market. I must say it is very different from the Brussels one – I really didn’t think I was going to get anything but I got most of my Christmas shopping done – yup some of you are getting gifts from the Koln Market. I even got myself a little something. To see my little something click here.

One of the 6 christmas markets in Koln

Part of the old wall in Koln - #5 of the 6 markets

Big Santa with a tree - not sure why a tree

Lunch - yummy potatoes

Goolash in a bread bowl - My shopping partner Lori had this for lunch

I'm a sucker for people begging with animals

Journey of Life

2008-12-02T14:54:00.003-06:00

This is an Advertising and should maybe be on my other blog. However right now in my life with leaving Belgium I ponder these questions.

Cranberries

2008-12-02T00:03:00.000-06:00

This is what I thought cranberries were for - that is before I made homemade cranberries and loved them. I can't wait till next Thanksgiving. Why next...while with traveling back from LA on thanksgiving and then being in temp housing for Christmas - I'm waiting till next year to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas right.

Joe and I even bought our Christmas presents for each other already. I do however have our New Years Eve plans done. I can't miss that it is one of my favorite holidays. Stay tuned for them...

Pelican Rouge

2008-12-01T00:01:00.000-06:00

So Months ago I saw these coffee cups at a troc and I really wanted them. How ever the guy said they would be 5 euros each. Actually I think they were for there break room - they were still in the cardboard box and half opened. Bummed cause that was more then I was willing to pay.

Then the 16th of November I was showing my friend Barb from England the Marrolles market...Yup the first box I saw from the corner was the coffee cups! I can't even tell you how excited I was - I think I may have scared Barb a little with how excited I was.

Joe was in the US and when I talked to him I was very excited and said "guess what I bought today" I could hear the terror in his voice "I'm scared to know" but them it was all good when I said "the Pelican Rouge coffee cups!"

Here is a couple photos of my prized find!

One reason I like them is they have dutch and french on them - very Belgium - and perfect treasure to take home.
Bonus they had a tea mug - so come and visit me in LA and have a coffee or tea in a cool glass.

Fun Friday

2008-11-28T00:21:00.000-06:00

We had our first in-n-out burger. Oh are we going to have culture shock moving back...the lady showing us around didn't even think twice about going through the drive-through. We had our burgers specially wrapped to drive and got these place mats for our laps then we were good to go! Lord Help Us.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T07:18:00.000-06:00

We just landed today from L.A. We were looking for a house out there.

Hope you are all enjoying Thanksgiving.

Dogs of Athens

2008-11-25T00:03:00.004-06:00

The dog is on the roof of the ticket booth

I wanted to take her home

ZZZZZZ

slow day for guide dogs

There is actually 3 dogs here all lined up - entry of the acropolis

Watch your step!!!

There are dogs everywhere in Athens. Which Foxy was protesting cause there are signs every where that say "no dogs" but it is full of the loose dogs in the sites.

My favorite dog in Athens...she liked hanging out in the closet and digging on the bathrobe.

Athens day 5

2008-11-24T00:03:00.001-06:00

Please let me out I want to pee on all this old stuff

The guy in the green sweater is one of the tourist we saw at dinner on Saturday -actually all 3 of them were there. (temple of olympian zeus acropolis in the fore ground)

Temple of Olympian Zeus

we used miles for our trip and on the way home to fly business class was the same amount of miles as coach so I chose business class (much to Joe's dismay) Well they gave Foxy her own seat-they actually were really concerned and kept asking me if it was o.k. HELLO she is not on the floor under a seat, it is more than o.k. it is wonderful. Also on the lag from Amsterdam to Brussels the same cat was on the flight too - but this time I think they just pretended there was 1 pet in the cabin.

Hi Grandma - look where I am!

Athens day 4

2008-11-21T00:05:00.001-06:00

Longitude: 22 degrees 10’ 38.18”
Latitude: 38 degrees 25’ 39.61” and an altitude of 700 meters.

What is at this…The Village of Sotena where my great grandfather and grandfather lived. (Before my grandpa came to the US)
Thinking it would be a quick 3-½ hour drive to the village from Athens and stop at Delphi on the way. OHH was I wrong. We got of to a very very late start. Then the GPS took us on a slow way and the weather was bad in some spots to Delphi we could not even see the front of the car due to the fog.

munchies for the road

With a brief so-so meal break in Delphi we were still in search of the village. The drive through and on the mountains with the view of the sea below was fabulous.
My favorite town we drove through was Arachova (it looked like a fancy village) We did try and stop but there was no parking to be found so we thought on the way back we could try and stop.

Arachova from a distance-we actually saw cloud coming a crossing the road in some spots here.

Finally we got to a road that gps told us to go up. The road was a single lane dirt road up a huge mountain – A mountain nobody told us we had to go up a mountain. I called my Parents to which my mom said “when you dad and grandpa visited the village (like 60 years ago) they had to take donkeys up the mountain to the village”. What donkeys and the top of the mountain! So we started up the mountain in a compact beat to shit Suzuki with a missing hubcap and no get up and go power. We made it ¼ of the way up then carefully turned around. Did I mention it was very narrow with no shoulder just a long way down on the side of you. It was what Joe called switch backs up the mountain.

Views from only 1/4 of the way up the mountain of death as we called it.

on the left of the photo you can see the other side of Greece

Then we tried it again and drove up all the switch backs after a very long hour we reached a village that was all quiet and saw a church (which my great grandfather help build in his village) I told Joe to quick turn around so I could take a photos of the church then we could head back down because it is dark now. All of a sudden these people just appeared from nowhere. 3 old men with there worry beads in hands approached the car and we asked if this was the right village by showing them the photo copy of a map and the letter from the president of the community that he originated from there. There was a scribe of a signature on the bottom of the paper that got them all excited but from what we could tell we had to go back 10k then take that road.

On our way home we got turned around and missed the cute town – not sure how there is only one main road – we stopped at 2 gas stations on the way home for directions. All road signs out this far are in the Greek alphabet words no English translation. My years in the sorority helped with the Greek alphabet but not the language. (in the museums for abcd or alpha, beta, gamma, delta)

After 10 hours in the car we were back in Athens. The real kicker of this is…I bought a road map this summer in the US to use due to the fact the village is so small (50 people) it isn’t on the map and I had a bad photocopy from my uncle that I was trying to follow. Any way I looked again at the map the rental car company gave us – it didn't have road number on it so we used the other map – the darn village was on that map showing roads to it….the F@*%!

Oh well I got to see cute old traditional Greek men. I’m afraid that is the last of them the little boy we saw in the village looked like any other boy not to mention Athens was really Americanized.

side of a mountain

War Monument

Cute house/church on a little island. Behind it you can see the main road we came down, our ears were popping the whole trip with up the mountain down the mountain.

Athens day 3

2008-11-20T00:07:00.002-06:00

After breakfast we noticed the streets were all blocked off and it was nice and quiet no horns honking or cars buzzing by.
We had no idea when I moved up the trip that the Athens Marathon was going on the 9th. The runners started and finished at the Olympic stadium. We just watched some of the 5k and Special Olympics’ runners come in.

We had to get to the Parliament for the changing of the guards that should have taken place at 11:00. But they started to clear out the square and we just happened to be there to get in the front. The show started at 10:20 – yes I know Greeks are late but this Sunday they were early, maybe for the marathon is the only thing I can think of.

a snack along the way-1 euro for a huge doughnut

It was normal to see men in these costumes-growing up we had greek items around the house.

We arrived at the National Archaeological Museum that was free for some reason unknown to us– which is not in a nice are of town. Just our opinion judging from the buildings, people and graffiti.

Some famous compass thing Joe was fascinated with

Very old vase

Then we walked through the national gardens.

For dinner we walked back down and got a yummy gyros and check out the tourist stores that were starting to close up. (yes darling brother I got you a flag)

View from the tourist shopping area where we ate our gyros

Dad you didn't tell me you have a store in Athens

Athens day 2

2008-11-19T00:16:00.002-06:00

We started each day off with breakfast at Di Cappo Café in Kolonakiou square. (It is just like a Paris café little table and chairs outside) We ate flaky croissants, pain au chocolate, freshly squeezed OJ (4 oranges per glass) and Joe had coffee.
This being the winter season for Greek tourism most museums and sites close at 2:30 or 3:00. We headed to the Acropolis grounds. The acropolis museum was closed due to items being moved from the old place to the new one. This was suppose to be done by 2007 now they say mid December (we planned this trip for Christmas but moved it up) We however did have time to check out the little section that they had open – so we will have to go back someday.

What you can't see unless you click on the photo is a huge zit right under my lip that had my whole bottom lip swollen.
Quick stop at Elias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum. The whole second floor was dedicated to American costume jewelry who knew that stuff belonged in a museum. (From the 20’s -50’s)

I would like this dress

This I thought this was funny-he sure has a big mouth

Then we wandered to back to Monastiraki for gyros at Savvas. The waiter would not let me have a gyros sandwich because they are just for to go not at the tables. So I just sat there while Joe at his Souvlaki plate. Then Joe talked me into getting a gyro and coming back to sit at the table. OHHH man was the waiter pissed-but on the other hand it is true this place has the best Gyros in all Athens. Imagine a really good gyros and then they had some French fries in the middle. It sounds weird but it totally worked. YUM YUM.

The walk way we took - we always manage to find the most interesting routes

The Gyros to go window. The man in the white shirt makes them for you.

Benaki Museum was open Saturday till 5:00 so we quickly buzzed through it before heading back to the hotel for a quick rest before dinner.

pomegranate bush outside the museum

Since this is Europe and they eat dinner late –the Greeks are always late and dinner here is later. We got the early bird reservation at 8:30 at Vlassi. It was a ways away from the hotel actually 3 metro stops and a walk.
Along the way there was a quick stop-under a street light in the middle of no where was a card table with a satin table cloth and lots of hand made jewelery by a cute old man. Since this was a whirl wind trip and shopping was not on our agenda it was perfect. 2 more treasure to add to my others. (FYI stores take major siesta too)

When we arrived late at the address a house? In a total residential area also with a different name then what I had – we just went in any way and they had our reservation. It was a house – layout like our in Brussels with different salons on the main floor. They had table set up in the different rooms, in our room there was grouping for 6 parities. One table already had 3 mid to late 20’s tourist that looked totally petrified by this whole thing. The waiter tells what the first course choices are (no menus just what is fresh and what the cook want to cook for the day) Then he brings out on a silver tray the options and pick what you want off the tray. Joe had some marinated eggplant with green peppers dish-some how the waiter offered to make me fried calamari and just like that he brought me hot & fresh fried calamari that was the best I have ever had.
Our main course we had baked lamb in butter with garlic for 2 people. Also wonderful the meat was just falling off the bone (1 leg piece and rib pieces on a huge platter) For dessert we split galaktobouriko a firm white custard square with phyllo down on top with honey sprinkled over it. This caught the eye of the other tourist and got the waiter and pointed to our table and ordered the same thing.
While we were enjoying our meal the room was filling up 2 tables were old Greek ladies all dressed up for their big night out. The other tables were friends and family It turned out to be a room full of loud and crazy Greeks. (Yes I included myself in this category)
Sorry no photos of this – It was totally a neighbor restaurant and did’t want to call out too much attention that we were outsiders.

One thing I would like to mention but don’t hold me to it. Athens is a cheap city. Our gyros sandwiches were 1.60, bottle water .50 Euros and our dinner Saturday night was under 50 Euros. By my standards cheap – Brussels is really expensive. I say don’t hold me to this because one time I told someone Cancun was cheap and they went there like a couple year later and were really pissed because it was more expensive then I told her. They said they had to scrape by on little food because it more then they budgeted for. Not sure what they budgeted for food vs. drinks.

Heir (Yesterday)

2008-11-19T00:09:00.001-06:00

Yesterday in English heir in French…any way you say it my day was insane.
I started off to French class to inform my professor that I will not be attending any more classed. I actually was suppose to have an oral French exam that day-it was really quick. However on my way up to class on the bus I noticed a lot of police standing around and the huge bus with a water cannon on it. HMMM I thought what is going to happen today.

Construction I walk by to get to French class -some days I feel like the frog in frogger to get through it all.

The Graffiti I also walk by

Then Rosa and Joanna and I went to an Italian restaurant for lunch. Since Brussels is so international most of the Italian restaurants they speak Italian. (Which I love I feel like I’m in Italy for a couple hours) The problem with this is Joanna hardly speaks English but her French is wonderful. She could not read the menu that was in Italian and asked me to order her something. Rosa is speaks better French than I and broken English…but we all had a good time – trying to figure out what each other was trying to say.

Me, Joanna and Rosa

The truck that almost took us out as were walked out of class.

Then I decided to walk home because the bus were on a different route and that makes me nervous – I’m never sure where it is going to take me. Half way down Chausse d’Ixelles there was a protest. AHHH that is what all the police were for. I asked a girl in French what was going on…all the immigrants (sans papers)that did not have papers were protesting. (Africans and Middle Eastern people from what I could see) I high tailed my little pale skin light hair body out of there and went to find the bus.

People watching the protest

The bus took me down Ave Louise then straight down to Flagey – or at least that was the plan…our bus hit a car. Of course I was sitting in the front seats and saw it happening. This would not have happened if they had stop sign or stop lights not this priority right thing.

The car the bus hit.

Oh well I ended up walking home any way. Where I stayed for the rest of the day.

Water Cannon in Flagey

Police bus by Porte du Namur

Dear Belgium

2008-11-18T00:03:00.002-06:00

Mon Cherie,

It is with deep sadness that I need to tell you something. We are leaving you. I know, I know you have been noting but wonderful to us. We have so many great memories that you will always be thought of if not daily till I'm old and gray.

Your mood of constant cold, gray and wetness I have learned to accept as a part of being with you. Your laid back attitude, combined with your grand beauty will never be matched to anything else I will ever know.

I have so much enjoyed visiting with your friend Paris, please say Au revoir for me if I don't get to see her before we go.

Merci, Merci Merci for everything and I hope to see you again in my life time.

Love,

Jill, Joe and Foxy

Athens day 1

2008-11-17T00:03:00.002-06:00

Our trip started out rocky after almost being taken off our flight in Brussels due to the fact that there was 1 to many pets in the cabin of our flight. Yes that right the people sitting in front of us had a cat. After much debating in Dutch they had decided to let both of the pets stay on the plane. As both Joe and I could breath a little easier after that situation. (You know Joe was thinking that damn dog)
Then our plane from Amsterdam to Athens was encountering major head winds that made our flight a 1 ½ late. My schedule for Friday was getting totally thrown off. We hit the ground running and never slowed down the whole trip.
After checking in to our hotel (St. George Lycabettus) which was at up a little on the mountain Lycabettus.

View from our hotel balcony-score I just booked the hotel because they allowed dogs

We were staying a little ways up the first mountain in the distance. Take from the acropolis.

We headed down to Monastiraki Square for light dinner of Souvlaki at Thanassis. Which was wonderful. Then we walked to the central Market they were almost all closed up and checked out the fresh fish and fresh meats. Close by was Krinos where we had dessert.

My souvlaki sandwich

Loukoumades - doughnut like things with hot honey drizzled on them

Being completely satisfied with our first Greek meal we walked to Syntagmatos/Parliament to see the Greek guards.

Joe took about 5 photos of the guards this night and they all are amazing photos good job honey

Next stop Lycabettus Mountain. Well we got there and a German couple was waiting to go up to the top and some how the German guy made a deal with the taxi driver to take all of up to the top. It all happened so fast that my head was spinning. Just another story for my blog I thought as we all piled in the taxi (Foxy too)
We took the funicular down and called it a night because tomorrow was another adventure for us.

The Funicular

view from the top-Acropolis in the distance

This photo is from the central market fish area-it is a shark head laying on the ground. Because it was the end of the day there was blood and fish slim all over the ground. Highly suggest getting there earlier so you don't have to walk through it. I also hope they didn't catch the shark just for the fin for soup! That is not right never eat shark fin soup!

fires

2008-11-16T04:14:00.005-06:00

I'm adding this to the blog - due to the fact when i lived in Chicago one night I was awoke by people yelling and ringing my door bell. Thinking it was drunks I ingorned it till they kept it up and I looked out my window to see huge flames. It was one of the scariest things I have ever been thorough. I grabbed my two guinea pigs (yes guinea pigs don't laugh) and left wearing just my boxers and tank top. There were neighbors with our garden hoses spraying the door so we would get out and on the house till the fire department could get there. Another neighbor gave me some sock and the other tenants clothes. I don't wish a fire on anyone it is terrible.

Damage to the house - My windows were cracked, and my air conditioner was melted from the heat. It was started by some guys going around lincoln park area started decks garages and other structures on fire so the fire department had a busy night that night.

Fun Friday

2008-11-14T00:01:00.002-06:00

We went to Athens for 5 days this week (photo taken Saturday) - check back next week for the photos and stories from our big fat Greek adventure.

What?

2008-11-13T00:06:00.002-06:00

Belgium news that you probably did not hear.

OVERIJSE - Up to 44 kilos (97 pounds) of gold were stolen on Friday afternoon when an individual attacked one of the local ING bank's customer who was checking the content of his safe in the vault room. The thief passed a hood over the customer's face who was gagged and tied. The thief apparently got away unseen as the bank's cameras were not in operation. (Source:xpats.com)

Yeah I just need to go to the bank and check on my 97 pounds of gold!!!

Are you American?

2008-11-12T00:16:00.000-06:00

Everyone always says how can you tell Americans in Europe. This photo should answer that question. It was taken in Paris in September when I was participating in a walking tour. There were more white tennis shoes huddled around but I believe they figured out what I was doing and walked away.

pink bike

2008-11-11T00:21:00.000-06:00

Not sure what this means but it was Hot Pink and on the road.

Lights, Action, Water

2008-11-10T00:08:00.000-06:00

They are still putting the finishing touched on Place Flagey. The new tram stop is almost done then it will be 100% finished. (hopefully by december)

Fun Friday

2008-11-07T00:02:00.000-06:00

I have my our street in Prague!

House

2008-11-06T00:05:00.001-06:00

Here is a photo of a house I saw just out side a Tongress Belgium. We caused a traffic jam, just so I could get a photo of it.

the next president?

2008-11-05T00:07:00.001-06:00

I'm writing this on Monday not knowing the out come of the election. (I love the post option where you do a bunch of blogs in advance to appear on certain days)

Here is a photo of a women from the southern US that was in the Brussels Airport in October. She was causing quite a stir at our gate being an LOUD & proud American. I asked her if I could take a photo of her - she said yes just as long as I didn't get her face cause she was too old to have her face taken. (thinking Kate and Francoise would love her)

I do believe she wore that pin everyday she was visiting Europe and told the whole Continent what she believed.

Election parties

2008-11-04T08:03:00.002-06:00

So Today is the big day - All over the world they will be having election parties. Here in Brussels there is a big one at the Renaissance Hotel, 19, rue du Parnasse, 1050 Brussels. The cost is 10 euros and it starts at 9 pm but they stress to get in line early in the past 1,000's people have attended from many different countries and I think there could be more this year.

I also saw this poster today by the port du namur metro. This might get the attention of a few people.

quidam

2008-11-04T00:28:00.000-06:00

On Saturday we went to see our first Cirque du Soleil. It was in a tent just outside of Brussels. Both Joe and I were impressed with what they can do with ther bodies.

There were a lot of children at this show which surprised me with how many scary characters they had in this production.

Dog's Eye View by Foxy (of Prague)

2008-11-03T00:05:00.002-06:00

A sign for the castle district - meaning I need to go into my bag and hide-I don' think I wanted to mess with the Czech Police they looked like they meant business.

I love leaves! This was in Letenske Sady a huge park North East of the Castle District

Our hotel had a round glass elevator which amazed me

My new Czech friend - her mom was not happy we were playing and quickly came and got her

View from on top of Petrinske Sady Park with mom & dad

Look mom no leashes required - Letenske sady park

Czeching out the swans on Streleck Island - I loved this island we found and nobody was on it. I was allowed off my leash to run free for a long time. (we visited it both Saturday and Sunday) The Island is one brigde south of Charles Bridge the views from the island were amazing.

Hanging out with mom sans leash at Streleck Island

Dad thought I need to pose by this sign however I was being a diva and would not sit still.

don't forget to check out my mom's blog - if you have great! if not what are you waiting for.

Fun Spooky Friday

2008-10-31T00:14:00.002-05:00

Happy Halloween!!!

Prague by day

2008-10-30T00:07:00.001-05:00

Seagulls by the Charles Bridge on the dam

Looking at the charles bridge from Streleck Island

Foxy and I on the Island with a great view behind us-more on this Island by Foxy later

Astronomical clock - on the hour it is animated

Jewish Town Hall -part of the Jewish Museum

A band on the Charles Bridge

View from up on Schoborn Gardens-Tyn Church

Prague Castle

Hotel and Dinner

2008-10-29T00:07:00.002-05:00

When we were in Prague we stayed at Ventana Hotel Prague. It is one of the 2008 travelers choice hotel on trip advisor. It was right off of Old Town Square behind the Tyn Church.
The only problem we had was trying to find the hotel that was right in front of our face. We were standing right in front of the store looking for our hotel. Oh did we feel like dumb tourists. We were just thankful we didn't ask where it was.

Hotel Ventana above the store

Our room with a pretty chandelier

One of the views from our Hotel room

Friday night we visited a restaurant recommended by the Hotel. It was a typical Czech cuisine restaurant called Restaurant Zvonice. The restaurant is in a bell tower with the authentic interior of the Gothic belfry with the original bell St. Maria from 1518.

The bell from 1518

We again had a problem finding the restaurant when it was right in front of us. The guy said we could not miss the tower with flags on it. Oh but we did. That was our theme for the night-where is...Oh that right just look up.

The side we saw walking up-no door or lights

The other side-with a door and lights

Us at Zvonice Restaurant-look at how nice the menu, it is all leather

The front of the menu

If you are ever in Prague I do recommend this restaurant. www.restaurantzvonice.cz.

My dinner - chicken with au gratin potatoes

Joe's wild boar steak - not sure why it is underlining

Joe's Desert-pancake with blueberries

I would have shown you the scallops for the entree but they were to yummy looking I just had to eat them.

Prague at Night

2008-10-28T00:06:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we went to Prague. It was a great walking city and Foxy had a ball. I almost didn't bring her because a girl in my french class said it isn't a dog friendly city. Not true at all. The weather could have been a bit warmer (we could see our breath and Foxy had 2 sweaters on) but at least it didn't rain. Hope you enjoy these photos.

National Museum

View on the the Charles Bridge-looking at Old Town Bridge Tower

Clock Tower in Old Town Square

Old Town Square with Tyn Church in the back ground

Old Town Bridge Tower (entry to Charles Bridge)

Sleepy

2008-10-27T00:17:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone, We got back really late last night and today we are resting...I will post about Prague later this week!

Friday bonus

2008-10-24T03:23:00.002-05:00

Have you every wondered how the European women tie the scarfs so nicely? I found this video that might help. I have already used the one about tying it in a knot then slipping the other end through it. (hint it you adjust right it looks almost like a necktie knot) It worked like a charm not to mention looked good.

Hope you like it Click Here

Fun Friday

2008-10-24T00:03:00.006-05:00

Can you guess where we are off to?

image from getty images

No fair if you know - the rest of you will find out Tuesday. (we get back late sunday)

Cranberries for Karen

2008-10-23T00:03:00.000-05:00

Last thanksgiving my friend Karen was visiting, and we made homemade Cranberries. They were so easy and yummy. I saw they had cranberries in the store again, so I made some for a side dish one night.

Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce
340 grams (one bag) fresh Ocean spray cranberries
1 cup sugar - i use a little more
1 cup water

Dissolve sugar in water in saucepan and bring to a boil. Add cranberries - return to a broil, reduce heat. Continue to boil gently until skins break (about 10 minutes) To gel, cool at room temperature, then refrigerate. serve warm or chilled.

Boiling & popping berries

almost done and getting ready to cool

Belgian Endive

2008-10-22T00:02:00.000-05:00

Belgian endive is also known as French endive, witlo(o)f in the USA, chicory in the UK, as witlof (the Dutch name) in Australia, endive in France, and chicon in parts of Northern France and in Francophone parts of Belgium. It has a small head of cream-coloured, bitter leaves. It is grown completely underground or indoors in the absence of sunlight in order to prevent the leaves from turning green and opening up. The plant has to be kept just below the soil surface as it grows, only showing the very tip of the leaves. It is often sold wrapped in blue paper to protect it from light and so preserve its pale colour and delicate flavour. The smooth, creamy white leaves may be served stuffed, baked, boiled, cut and cooked in a milk sauce, or simply cut raw. Slightly bitter, the whiter the leaf, the less bitter the taste. The harder inner part of the stem, at the bottom of the head, should be cut out before cooking to prevent bitterness. Belgium exports chicon/witloof to over 40 different countries. The technique for growing blanched endives was accidentally discovered in the 1850s in the Josaphat valley in Schaerbeek, Belgium. Endive is cultivated for culinary use by cutting the leaves from the growing plant, then keeping the living stem and root in a dark place. A new bud develops but without sunlight it is white and lacks the bitterness of the sun-exposed foliage. Today France is the largest producer of endives. (from Wikipedia)

So I tried to cook some endives, I write tried cause I had a huge problem witht eh cheese sauce. The recipe sounds easy but for some reason I just could not get it to work, so I just through the cheese on top and cooked it.
Here are some photos and the recipe if any one can tell me what I did wrong that would be great.

Ingredients:
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
8 whole Belgian Endives cored
1/4 cup chopped green peppers
1/4 cup red peppers
1 tablespoon flour
1/2 cup grated mild hard cheese
2 teaspoons grated parmesan cheese
8 slices of black forest ham
chopped parsley
salt and pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F - In a frying pan, lightly saute the endives, remove from pan and set aside. Repeat with peppers and set aside.
2. Add flour to the oil and stir over heat until lightly browned. Add seasoning and cheeses and blend with a whisk until cheese melts. Stir in peppers.
3. Grease an ovenproof casserole. wrap each endive in a slice of ham. Place in dish, cover with the cheese sauce and cook for about 20 minutes or until dish is bubbly and brown. Garnish with chapped parsley and serve hot.

My problem was #2 my cheese got brown and hard!!! I tried it 3 times!!! I also had my endives wrapped in ham before i started the cheese which i think is a good idea then you can pour the cheese on right away.

Belgian endive's

Endives wrapped in ham

Phone to call your mom every second and say it is not working

Finish product - I just emptied the package of cheese on the endives and cooked them.

Joe thought they were yummy!

Figs

2008-10-21T05:21:00.002-05:00

I liked figs!!! who would have thought that. We have a fig tree in our back yard and they are ripe and in season - yummy!

Tongeren

2008-10-20T00:03:00.000-05:00

Sunday (10/12) was the most beautiful fall day I have ever experienced in Brussels. I cannot even begin to write about how gorgeous it was.
We started out going to Tongeren. It is an hour drive west from Brussels. Why did we go there…I get my new issue of National Geographic Traveler and they were talking about the antiekmarkt. (antique market). They mentioned that it is Belgium’s oldest city, founded by Julius Caesar’s legions 2,000 years ago.
The people in the city were extremely nice, not to mention we met a nice couple from the Netherlands. I would like to go back and see the site with a little more shopping.

Here are some photos from our day...

I loved these titles but not enough for a back splash in a remolded kitchen when we get home

I haven't had time to translate this - but it looks very interesting what I can understand

Crazy cut outs with a male mannequin

Big Bull Dog

Outdoor lighting?

Part of the old city wall

Fun Friday

2008-10-17T00:05:00.002-05:00

Here is a quick look at a menu from where I grabbed lunch the other day. Notice the names of the sandwiches - Barack, John and Hillary Your can't see the other side of the menu but it say's "new" by them.

A little color

2008-10-16T00:39:00.001-05:00

I thought with the sky's turning grey elsewhere in the world we could us a little color today. the sky's are always grey here in Brussels. These were take in our back yard during the nice September weather.

We have a holly bush or tree what ever it is I love it.

a sign

2008-10-15T02:35:00.004-05:00

This was the palace of pants back in the day. If you look up on the top they also had lingerie.

Pantalon

2008-10-14T00:08:00.004-05:00

Here is the story behind this photo...I ordered Joe a pair of "no wrinkle & stain resistant" premium dockers from JCPenney's. They came all sealed up in a plastic bag and all the tags on.

When he went to try them on - we noticed the waist band had this name written in black ink like a sharpie. How crazy is this!

Good Will

2008-10-13T00:26:00.000-05:00

Saturday we finally dropped off all the bags of clothes from my fall cleaning spree. The place is called Les Petits Riens. It is basically like goodwill. We dropped off a trunk load and took a trunk load home. (plus there will be a delivery on Monday)
Here is a photo of Joe’s finds. They are German bier mugs. I will use one for hot chocolate. So now when you come over we can serve you a beer in a real mug. (Only if you want)

1st Birthday!

2008-10-10T00:14:00.000-05:00

I would like to thank everyone for following this blog for the past year!

I have just created a blog for just me. I didn't want to get to girly on this blog with Joe being linked to it...Click here to check out my very own blog, but still check this one out too.

reese

2008-10-09T00:03:00.001-05:00

Foxy had a play date 2 weeks ago and this is her new friend Reese - yes named after the actress (I can totally tell I'm back in french class I just spelled actrice which is french for actress.)

Fixing a Leek

2008-10-08T00:05:00.007-05:00

I have been checking out Molly’s blog from time to time. Then one day she was talking about her trip to Brussels and the food on her blog. I emailed her and told her I lived in Brussels bla bla bla and got no response. (I always respond to my reader if they leave a comment or email me maybe she was busy or thought I weird oh well her loss.) By the way I do eat Leek and Potato soup here-it is yummy! Yes mom you read that right I eat leeks.

Then I got a subscription to Bon Appétit magazine and found out she is a writer for the magazine. I just wanted to share this article and recipes with you- from the October issue of Bon Appétit. Molly's blog is orangette click here.

By Molly Wizenberg
It was barely noon on our first day in Brussels when we spotted the leeks. We'd stopped at a small grocery store to buy some bottled water, and as we stood in line to pay, my husband noticed a large wooden crate by the cash registers.
"Look at those," he said, pointing. The crate was piled high with leeks, firm and glossy as piano keys, their leaves plump and freshly trimmed, a deep shade of green. Their tiny, hair-like roots were still tangled endearingly with damp mud, as though they'd just been pulled from the bed. My husband and I don't always swoon over the same things—he will never share my love for Duran Duran's "Hungry Like the Wolf," and I will never understand his insatiable passion for hot sauce—but these were stunning specimens. I'd never seen such gorgeous leeks outside of a farmers' market, much less near the cash register of a grocery store, a strategic spot where most American stores stock chewing gum, batteries, and packs of candy. I have nothing against any of those things—especially not the candy—but these Belgians were clearly onto something.
Here in the States, we often don't know what to do with leeks. We buy them to make potato-leek soup, but that's about the extent of it. The average grocery store seems to reserve only the smallest amount of square footage for them—much less than it devotes to lettuce, onions, or Idaho potatoes. But in Brussels, I noticed, everyone seems to have a leek or two in their grocery basket. The same goes for France, where, so far as I can tell, even the most basic shopping list includes leeks, potatoes, and carrots. (Yes, I am one of those types who stare compulsively at other people's grocery carts. Guilty as charged.)
Leeks look like oversize scallions, and they are related to both onions and garlic, but their taste is softer and more subtle than any of them. In a word, they're delicious. I love leeks in nearly every form, but I have to admit that I don't cook them as often as I could.

click here to continue.

Music...

2008-10-07T00:37:00.004-05:00

Every now and then when you're in a mood, don’t you just need some good angry girl music?

I think I could have actually worn out my Alanis Morissette's “jagged little pill” CD for as much as I have played it - it was a lot in Chicago! When I use to get the cd out or now when Joe hears her playing he either leaving me alone to sing at the very top of my lungs or asks, “what happened now”.
Here is a good You tube video from Pink. I just might have to check out her music more. ENJOY!

Sunday Rainy Sunday

2008-10-06T00:03:00.003-05:00

At the Waterloo market getting soaked. Glad I got a good rain coat this summer. Notice the vendors did not even show up that is how bad the weather was.

After the market, we caught the end of the Brussels Marathon.

Very Brave soles to be running in this crap.

Fun Friday

2008-10-03T00:03:00.001-05:00

Foxy & friend last summer at Grandpa's farm

best dressed

2008-10-02T00:04:00.000-05:00

The International Best Dress List is out and #9 is...

H.R.H. CROWN PRINCESS MATHILDE OF BELGIUM

Residence: The Royal Castle of Laeken, Brussels. Age: 35. Signature look: Tailored dresses and suits, suitable for state occasions. Notable 2008 ensemble: Ivory silk shift with a lace overlay, worn for the baptism of her fourth child, Princess Eleonore of Belgium. Causes: U.N. aids, and UNICEF. By Albert Nieboer/dpa/Landov.

Congratulations you look terrific! It is hard to look good in this weather believe me I have tried.

International best dressed list. – vanity fair

Thought for the month

2008-10-01T00:02:00.002-05:00

"Clothes are like legos; there are always a few ways to put them together"

photo from it's her factory blog

Fur Really

2008-09-30T00:03:00.001-05:00

I found this the other weekend, it is vintage from Munich Germany (the tag says). You all know how I love fur.

It is fox fur collar but I'm not sure what the rest is it might be mink. All the fashion magazines are showing fur for Fall and Winter.

Gypsies

2008-09-29T00:02:00.003-05:00

I have not blogged about our neighbors across the street till now. I do talk about them a lot to my friends and family on the phone or when I’m at home. Everyone always asks why I call him or her “the Gypsies”.

It started 2 years ago when we moved in. We look directly into their house (the kitchen 1st floor – 2nd floor the bathroom – 3rd a bedroom) and vice versa they can see right into our house. The window covering they had in the bathroom was 4-inch stripe navy and white curtain with 6-inch bananas on them. This drove Joe absolutely nuts. So nuts he really didn’t want to live in the house when we were looking at it. Plus we never knew who lived there – different people were coming and going at all hours of the day. From what I could tell there was a guy and a girl that were always living there (College age).

So basically this is how they became known as “the Gypsies”

They moved out about 5 or 6 months ago…this is where you should really be careful for what you wish for. Joe was so excited but…a whole new set of crazy gypsies moved in. I have enough stories from the past couple months to write a book…I will just give you a couple highlights.

They like to hang out their front kitchen window and sit on the window sill.

I really think they only have one key. This is why; sometimes they jump out the front window and leave it open while they run to the corner store then climb back in it.

One day the gypsies were all sitting in front of our house in the street where Joe parks our car. We have a garage under our house so there are "no parking" signs on the garage meaning we always have a spot saved on the street for our car. I tried to shoosh them away by looking at them from the window but that didn’t faze them. I then tried to call Joe on his cell to warn him about this crazy thing going on but he didn’t answer. So when Joe pulled up he tried to pull into the spot and they just sat there like they were in a protest. Then they pointed at the no parking sign to Joe and smiled…His response was “My House”. They just all laughed and scattered across the street.
A couple days after the above situation, one of them saw Joe come home and as he was getting out of the car, he opened his window and yelled “My House” at Joe. They all enjoyed a good laugh.

This past Friday night they had a huge party that went to the wee hours of the morning.

Then the next day (Saturday) they had a picnic in front of our house I went out there with Joe's camera and said “Je voudrais prend la photo svp” basically I would like to take your photo – what were they going to say, no? they were sitting on my sidewalk. Then we had a brief conversation about what I take photos of and what I’m going to do with this one. Yes all in French, I was impressed with myself. (Joe was gone this weekend or else he might have had a heart attack)

That is it…here is the photo, so now if I ever mention the gypsies again you will know who I am talking about. The guy in the blue shirt is the leader of the pack. One more thing I should add, we really don't live in a bad area or close to the college-they are not our typical neighbors.

The Gypsies!

Fun Friday

2008-09-26T00:03:00.000-05:00

The circus is coming for 80 days!!

No Car Day

2008-09-25T00:07:00.001-05:00

This was our 3rd time to experience no car day on Sunday. If you have not heard of this before it is when the whole city of Brussels is free of cars!

It is a fun day but for me who only rides once a year it is hell. I thought we could ride towards a bead store by the Marolles market, I forgot that meant I had to go up a big hill and ride on avenue Louise.

You have to navigate the narrow streets with slow little kids, adults and teenagers zooming in and out not to mention Horses all packed on the street. I just need to remember that I need to stick to the quieter streets next year.

Yes that is a horse

Foxy on the other hand loved it. We upgraded from last year's vintage milk crate zipped tied onto Joe's bike to a new basket with a cover so she could not jump out or go flying out if Joe got into and accident.

Hi Grandma!

The castle is free of scaffolding.

Donkey's

Yes Donkeys by the Marolles at a cafe - only in Brussels

Busy & Crowded Ave Louise

Brocante

2008-09-24T00:15:00.001-05:00

Saturday was our neighborhood Brocante or garage sale in the US. It sounds much more glamorous in French saying brocante. Here are some photos of the day and some finds.

Our neighbors

Organ grinder walking around

Huge China Set- lots of plates and bowls

This summer we brought back my parents Polaroid camera here is our first photo from it. It is from our balcony looking on to the street.

Starbucks

2008-09-24T00:04:00.001-05:00

Another reasons for going to the airport.

We finally have a starbucks in Brussels. The closest one before this was in Germany now it is in the airport, however Joe still will not drive out there for coffee (I have asked him to do this for an earlier post)

Foxy and I enjoyed our hot chocolate and muffin, but the muffin was bad I don’t think it was cooked.

Airport

2008-09-23T00:05:00.001-05:00

There were a couple reasons Foxy & I needed to go to the airport on Saturday morning. Which is an easy trip if you do not have luggage. Via bus and a train.

(Foxy waiting for Joe)

The main reason was to meet Joe coming back from the US.

Another reasons was our trip to Italy in November has been a nightmare since I started booking it and the nightmare only continues. The short story is that we booked a 5 day trip then the airline changed it’s route and had us leaving a day later and coming home a day earlier, so basically our 5 day trip turned in to 3 days. (With bad travel times) We got it changed so we had our original dates but were flying two different airline (changing in roma to fly Alitalia to Naples then on the way home flying from Naples to Milan on Alitalia)
Now if you have not heard the news Alitalia is not going to be able to fly past this month because of money problems they are saying.

From Roma to Naples it is 1 ½ trains ride, so that is how we have decided to get to Naples. However from Naples to Milan is an 6 hour train ride and Joe thought that was too long for a train ride and that is why we cut it a day short to fly directly from Naples to Brussels. So that was why I had to change the tickets again.

While I was waiting for Joe down stairs I saw these guys come through that I knew something was up then a guy with technical equipment came by and stop with the other guys. HMMMM…they are with a band I said to Foxy. Then one of them turned around and I saw his jacket. It said “Snoop Dog” I tried to get my camera out of my bag before they started to leave but they were moving really fast with a huge body guard and a small Belgian guard from the airport (in the reflective vest below)…the photo is not the best – I was running while carrying Foxy and have an auto-focus camera that was taking long to focus. Any way I saw Snoop’s entourage in the airport…it is funny because when we saw the poster advertising Snoop coming to Brussels Joe and I were joking we should go.

this was them walking out the doors...

What the...

2008-09-22T00:05:00.001-05:00

I went down stairs to get my laundry out of the washer on friday and to my surprise there was water all over the floor.

Then I opened the washer and saw this…

My table cloth some how got wrapped around a smooth rubber surface!

After what seamed like an hour of unwrapping it this is what the inside of the washer looked like.
Don’t even ask me how this happened because I don’t know. It is just one of those things that happens to me.

I promise better blogs than this on later this week...i'm working on them-Saturday and Sunday were crazy days

Fun Friday

2008-09-19T00:07:00.003-05:00

I know this isn't as glamorous as when I was on the Cannes or Berlin red carpet.

Who knew Oostende had a film fest!

We noticed it when we were there for the beach...which explains the capri pants, straw hat, sunglasses and flip flops. The wool sweater is because we are in Belgium in August.

If you would like to see the other photos click here.

Drive-in

2008-09-18T00:03:00.001-05:00

Saturday we the last drive-in movie of the summer. We saw the movie "wanted" with Angelina Jolie. Here are some photos from the night.

Front row spot.

People were tailgating...we did this last year with Anne & Erin

Foxy & I in the car...it is blurry because we kept moving - so Joe said.

I almost forgot...there was a guy dressed up in a "Chips" uniform- helmet, sunglasses, badge and high boots (the t.v. show chips - police officers) that came to our car and spoke in French, however Joe told said "I'm sorry I speak English" I guess he could tell we had the American accent and said "don't be sorry you saved our ass in the war." That is the first time that has ever happened.

First Day

2008-09-17T00:02:00.002-05:00

This is what I wore to my first day of French class…I haven’t had my picture taken for the first day of school for a long time.

(navy pants by Zara, sweater & tank top by J.Crew and shoes by Paolo. it was also 49 degree when I left the house)

I was very happy that 3 of my other friends were in my class. Rosa from Peru, Martina from the Czech Republic and Joanna from Vietnam/China. The only one who speaks English is Rosa and just a little bit.

I did have the usual people from countries that start with I’s that we are at odds with and in their country. There are two new countries that I have never had in my class that make me a little nervous. The country that starts with an "A" and has an old bad man with a beard is hiding in it and Kosovo. Today we had to draw and explain what our country is known for. The girl from the "A" country drew the old bad man with a beard with a tank…I drew the statue of liberty with out the book in her hand and it was pointed out by Martina. So I quickly added it. This could be an interesting mix in my class giving the state of the world today.

Also Joanna made me eat these little fruits. They are called longan not sure what they are called in English. They were ok but she kept giving them to me so I took some home.

You have to peel the outside off then eat the clear part and spit the seed out.

Dinner

2008-09-16T00:04:00.003-05:00

Un Des Sens is where we went for our dinner Friday night.

We have been there once before and had a wonderful meal...and on Friday night it did not disappoint. Even with the waitress calling in sick and the "owner" who says he has this restaurant as one of his hobby was playing waiter. The food was wonderful!

New Market

2008-09-15T00:02:00.001-05:00

With the new PlaceFlagey finished they have now moved the market from the ponds to Flagey.

Place Sainte Croix (across from flagey in front of the church) is now where all the flower vendors are set up.

Flagey has the regular vendors we see every week and added some new ones too. It was much bigger than I had expected, they now have any thing you can imagine,

Honey anyone? Or do the chickens look good?

What about some cookies in bed wrapped up in your new hand made quilt.

I can’t wait to go there in the weeks to come and get some fruits and veggies.

Yummy carbs!

Fun Friday Two, Deux, Dos,Due or Zwei

2008-09-12T02:31:00.004-05:00

What do you do at 9:00 in the morning when 2 police officers are at you door?

Open it of course...If you can picture this I was wearing my Hillary 2008 t-shirt and Joe's boxer shorts and haven't combed my hair yet. (your not even safe to wear american t-shirt in your own home) After questioning me about my ID card, who lives here and is the house ours or do we rent they left.

Two years ago when this happened I knew about the surprise visit and was ready...this time they totally caught me off guard and asked more questions. Thank god I found my ID card the other day it was missing for a while.

Fun Friday

2008-09-12T00:10:00.000-05:00

Happy Anniversary Husband!

(From the wall of love in Paris)

2008-09-11T00:07:00.000-05:00

Saturday Supper

2008-09-10T04:14:00.004-05:00

Here are some photos of Joe's dinner on Saturday night. If you can believe it this is the first time we made mussels.

If you look at the chair next to Joe you can see Foxy peeking up.

the perfect gift

2008-09-09T06:20:00.005-05:00

Our 5th wedding anniversary is this Friday-the traditional gift is "wood." I have been cleaning out and working on my closet since spring - I have 15 shopping bags of clothes for goodwill and now I have nice organized closets with new "wood" hangers. (this is only one closet I have just finished the other 2 and my dressers) Joe never knew there were so many different kinds of hangers-skirt, pant, suit and regular not to mention different types of wood.

I actually enjoy organizing my closet every season.

Thank you honey. I love you and my closets!

Cafe des Deux Moulins

2008-09-08T03:30:00.007-05:00

Bonjour! Last Wednesday I took a day trip to Paris - by myself. I did a walking tour of the Montmartre area and some shopping of course.

This is the area Joe and I explored in late July - but cause our computer died my photos of one of my favorite place's is still on the hard drive and I never go to share them with you.

Cafe des Deux Moulins is the cafe where Amelie worked and where the movie was filmed. I highly recommend the movie-It is one of my favorites. (it is in french though with English sub-titles) Actually it is the first movie date that Joe and I had.

(The second video in is the dvd-they were selling it at the local dvd store)

If you have seen the movie you know this little guy the traveling gnome. They actually had the Polaroids from the movie hanging up behind the bar. (I believe this is how the company got the idea for the traveling gnome from this movie)

This is of course where I had my lunch that day...Joe didn't even have to ask where I ate, he just knew I was going back there.

Fun Friday

2008-09-05T03:00:00.003-05:00

Recipe

3 Avocados
1 Garlic clove minced
1 Jalapeno minced
¼ cup Tomato
¼ cup Onion
½ of a squeezed line
Salt
Cilantro

Throw everything in a bowl, gently mash avocados and season with salt, cilantro and lime juice.
Voila Guacamole!

Florida?

2008-09-04T00:02:00.001-05:00

Sunday morning I had a thought yes I know that is scary. Where could we go so Joe would have wind to fly his kite? Hummm The Sea of course. So we packed up and drove to just east of Oostende, Belgium. I know that sounds far but it was only an hour and half if that away. Belgium has 42 miles of coastline on the North Sea. Really nice sand where we were, just like Florida. (photo below taken above the beach on a nice edge of the dune)

Ostend (Oostende in Flemish) is called the “the Queen of Belgian Seaside Resorts” Basically it is like a Florida beach community with condos every where and bunches of people on the boardwalk. We were really lucky to drive past the craziness the first time and go out of the city and find a quiet area on the beach.

condo in Ostend

If you ask me this is my favorite and I mean favorite activity we have done in Belgium…I’m not sure why I didn’t think of this sooner…oh yeah the weather and the traffic coming back from Ostend some times can take up 4 hours with all the people coming back to the city. (There is a train but who wants to haul all the crap on the train)

Foxy in heaven with the sun and sand

The only problem was that there was too much wind for this kite, it kept spinning around then would crash to the ground. Joe almost took out a nice family of 3 on one crash landing.

Hope you enjoy the photos and hopefully there will be more in the future it was a nice place to spend some time.

Crazy Belgians it is not that warm to be swimming!

How cute is she playing in the sand

Cabanas or Joe called them the Belgian Fishing Houses

Me in flip-flops in Belgium!

Go Fly A Kite...

2008-09-03T00:02:00.001-05:00

...So on Saturday we did just that. Joe got this kite in Beijing on his last trip. We had the perfect setting, nice day but the wind was not strong enough to keep it going for long. We did have an enjoyable afternoon before this outing too, we ran into a brocante on the streets around the grocery store when we went to get supplies for the week. A very eventful Saturday if you ask me.

Foxy trying to help Joe

Up Up and A Way

Drive-In

2008-09-02T00:04:00.003-05:00

Friday night we thought we would go to the drive-in that only happeneds in the summer at Parc du Cinquantenaire. This year the sponsors bought a bigger screen and they allow walk-ins. This is our third year of attending these movies and we love going.

This time however we planned on getting there at 8:00 but with phone calls and everything we left the house at 8:45 the movie starts at 10:00. To make a long story short they were sold out when the line finally got up to the spot where you pay.

So we found a parking spot rented chairs and watched “Sex and the City” outside on folding metal folding chairs. I was dressed for the weather however Joe was not, but he made it through the cold night and the movie for me. You know if it wasn’t that movie we might have just gone home.

Funny part I almost forgot…there were 3 teenage girls sitting next to us on the curb under a blanket. Well Foxy looked at my lap then looked at the blanket…the next thing she was on one of the girls lap all curled up on the blanket. Crazy dog, I could hear their mom saying “what is going on in French” then the girl was saying there is a dog on my lap. Foxy always adds excitement to things.

Movie

2008-09-01T00:01:00.002-05:00

Last sunday they were filming a movie on our street. Don't get excited I think it was a small/independent movie. The scene above was the guy on the motorcycle pulls out in front of the car then yelled F***** at the car. In the photo below the director was talking to the driver of the car.

I was sitting on our balcony with chip watching the whole thing.