A day in Bruges

Oh what a day we have had here in Belgium. It was the first time I drove our car, a dark blue Mercades... Wait for it... Station Wagon!! But it's runs like a champ! I have been slightly nervous to drive because the street signs are different than the US. Like what does a red circle with a blue cross mean? And there are often no lane lines in the road.

But brave as we are we ventured out to head to Bruges or Brugge- a city 85 kilometers from Brussels (about one hour drive) As we approached the city we realized the entire drive we had not seen one speed limit sign so we determined you can drive as fast or slow as you want! Lucky us the sun was shining as we walked into the main square-

Then on to hike 366 steps to the top of the Belfry (or the town bell tower) which was built in the 13th century. 

Having to carry Maddie all the way up because our stroller was quite too large, as it always is here. They have tiny strollers!

And the view of Bruges from the top..

Then we ventured to the Musea Brugge:

By this time we were starving so we went to find a cafe for lunch. Ordering Paninni's and fries we found a Parc to eat. Sidenote: we had checked the weather which almost every day includes rain. And it called for 90% chance of afternoon rain. So as we were eating our lunch outside, right as predicted, the downpour began. Why are the weather men always right. We scrambled for our umbrella and found the handle broken off...perfect. Then realized the stroller was in the rain so we rushed to get Maddie covered and warm!! 

Soaked we headed for the car but happened to pass an H&M and what a relief to see a familiar site so we ventured in. Ending up leaving with a much needed new umbrella and some new clothes for a spoiled little baby, thanks to grandma!! Driving home took a bit longer than expected due to the rain and an 8 car pile up. 3 very long hours later we pulled into our house-exhausted and with sore bums. But thank heavens for GPS! Until tomorrow😉