Abbaye de Villers-la-Ville

Chris had to work today, so the kids and I traveled about a half hour south to Villers Abbey.  They were reluctant to go because they think sitting around and playing the iPod Touch is loads more fun, but I think otherwise.  So, off we went.  And, dare I say...I think they had a good time!  I think the pictures speak for themselves.  What a cool place to visit!

The kids are standing in front of the Monk's Refectory that was constructed during the 13th Century!

The Monk's Refectory then....

And, now! 

We moved on to the church.  This was so impressive! 

Construction on the church began in 1197.  I wish my kids could wrap their brains around how old this place really is! 

It is 100 yards long and the vaults reach 70 feet high.

This is what the church looked like back in the good old days.

Climbing around the guest quarters. 

A view of the abbey from the guest quarters.

I love the flowers popping up all over.  Spring is finally here! 

The doorways were really short!

Here is the front of the church...from the outside.  I'm so glad we continued walking around, so we didn't miss this view.  Can you see Thomas in the picture? 

It can be challenging to get a decent picture...he literally jumped through the picture.  Check out Allison's eyes.  LOL!

Even though it was a dreary day, it was so worth dragging the kids out of the house.  The highlight of our evening was a trip to Chi-Chi's in Waterloo.  The food was delicious (but very expensive) and the mariachi duo was fantastic!  What a great night.  Now, I am going to try and stay up to watch Kentucky vs. Louisville.  Wish me luck!

Until next time,
Wendy

ISB ~ Science Fair and Music Program

Today was a big day at school for the kids.  Allison presented her science fair project to the parents, and Thomas participated in the 3rd and 4th grade music program.  Allison's project focused on which popcorn pops the best.  She found that Act II had the highest percent of popped kernels and also the lowest price per bag.  So, when shopping for microwave popcorn, be sure to pick up Act II.  Thomas' program consisted of singing, the xylophone, and even some dance.  Four different groups performed songs from around the world.  What a great way to showcase how hard all the kids are working at school.  We now have two weeks off for spring break.  The kids totally deserve it...and I think this mom does too. ;)

Allison practicing her science fair presentation

Science fair today

Thomas is ready to perform.

Ha!  Not sure what this is about...

Playing the xylophone.

This kiddo juggled recorders.  So cool!!!

Beating on the bongo drums...this isn't Thomas' group, but they were awesome!

Until next time,
Wendy

Career Day

Tuesday was career day at school.  Here's how the conversation went on the way home from school on Monday....

Allison and Thomas: "Hey Mom, tomorrow is career day at school!"

Me: "That's cool!  What are you going to do for career day?"

A and T: "We have to dress like what we want to be when we grow up."

Me: "Really? I vaguely remember reading that somewhere...Are you kidding?...Allison has a book report due tomorrow and science fair project due Wednesday!!... (Smile on face) That's awesome guys!  What do you want to dress up as?"

Allison: "I'm going to be a teacher.  I have a skirt, heels, and the string to wear on my glasses."

Me: "Perfect idea, Allison!  And, Thomas?"

Thomas: "I want to be a firefighter!"

Me: "Figures!  Let me just pull that firefighter suit out of my back pocket....Hey, Bud, why don't you work at CAT like your daddy?"

Thomas: "Okay, cool!"

Me: "Phew!"

My little teacher and CAT worker.  It's Chris and Wendy in mini size!

Happy Thursday to you all!

Until next time,

Wendy

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Yesterday, along with two friends, I finally went to Cinquantenaire Park.  We were on a little photography excursion...for me that means put your camera on "auto" and hope for the best.  Oh, I did shoot some in "manual", but I have much to learn.  When I uploaded the pictures, Allison excitedly told me she had been there!  Who knew??  The fifth graders went to the military museum several weeks ago, and I didn't know, until yesterday, that it was one of the buildings next to the arch.  Oh the things you learn!

In 1880, Belgium celebrated 50 years of independence (they've been run by just about everyone.) Most buildings of the U-shaped complex which dominate the park were commissioned by King Leopold II and built for the 1880 National Exhibition commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of Belgian independence. The centrepiece triumphal arch was erected in 1905....thank you Wikipedia!

On a side note, Chris will be doing the 20K in Brussels in May, and this is where it begins.

And here is Cinquantenaire Park, and the beautiful sunshine in Brussels!

Did you know you can click on these pictures to make them larger?  Just wanted to be sure you knew that. :)

I loved the detail in the arch.

Booty shot...mature...I know...

Busy, busy Brussels

 

LOVE the sunshine!

I often have the Stanleys with me.  They thought the waffles were awesome!  But now, I have to call them gaufres to practice my Francais!

I'm so glad I was able to visit the park on such a gorgeous day!  I wonder where we should go next??  Hmmmmm....

Until next time,

Wendy