Happy Memorial Day and Grandma and Mike are Here!

It was an exciting day...to say the least!  Our morning started nice and early at the Brussels Airport.  We arrived at landing time, but we know that is pretty much a waste.  Almost and hour and a half later, Grandma and Mike were finally available for hugs!  It was a great moment!  And so, the picture taking begins....

Waiting patiently...kind of!

Big hugs and lots of tears.  It was five months to the day since we have seen each other 

These are some very happy people!

We headed to the house to relax for a bit before traveling to Flanders Field American Cemetery.  Nothing like dragging jet lagged family out for a busy day.  The Memorial Day celebration was held yesterday, but we were busy with the 20k.  Bummer...But, we thought it was important to visit this site today and honor our fallen American soldiers.

The entrance to the cemetery 

The wreath from the King and Queen of Belgium that sits in front of the chapel.  The flowers were looking very weary from the heat.  Never thought I would be able to write that!

And, the wreath from the American Women's Club of Brussels. 

Inside the Memorial Chapel

The Chapel 

All of the kiddos 

Family shot!  Thanks Scott!

A nice shot by Thomas

Ironically, I found these T-shirt at the GAP...in France. :)  In the future, I would like to take the kids to the Henri Chapelle Cemetery in Belgium but about two hours from our house.  Nearly 8,000 Americans are buried there.  The American Superintendent of Flanders Field said the site of those crosses is breathtaking and very moving.  That's a must do next year!

It was only 3:15, so we headed to the Grand Place.  I mean...why rest?  Grandma got the obligatory picture with the giant Manneken Pis.

Grandma and Mike with Manneken Pis.  So excited for my mom.  You know...she is 100% Belgian!  This is her first trip here, and she has waited her whole life to visit this country.  It's really exciting to show it to her!  What an honor for me.

And of course, there are the waffles.

Rubbing the lady for good luck!  Another must do on the Grand Place.

Enjoying birthday gifts from Grandma and Mike!

It was a great day!  We are looking forward to our future adventures.  But first, these two weary travelers need to get some rest!

Until next time,
Wendy