Just Another Family Adventure: Part 1

And most likely our last family trip in Europe before we move this summer. We went to two different countries in 4 days. Maybe you can guess where we went if I give you a few hints...chocolate, beer, tulips, windmills.We went to Chimay and Gent in Belgium and Harlem and Amsterdam in Holland this weekend and just barely missed the tulips which will be in bloom next weekend! Grrr. (Technically, we did find one field of red tulips that bloomed.)

On the way up, we couldn't have asked for a better restaurant recommendation or better weather in Chimay (in route to Gent, where we stayed.) It was the picture of relaxation and beauty. The children played on the playground right off the patio seating while we ate...Trappist Chimay fromage (cheese made by the Trappist monks,) rabbit, cheese quiche, bruchette, cheese croquette, and an exquisite ice cream sundae with real melted Belgium chocolate. I am sorry, but there is really no reason at all for me to ever have chocolate once we return to the states. US chocolate isn't fit to shine the shoes of European chocolate, much less Belgian chocolate. Brian feels the same way about Belgian beer. The Trappist monks at the local monastery make the beer too. We visited the monastery after our luxurious meal. It was windy and a bit chilly because of the wind, but, otherwise, was perfect! See for yourself!

The playground and our view while eating was so peaceful and beautiful.

Brian was content with his Trappist beer sampler.

Although the cheeses were definitely stinky they were tasty and not too strong.

The chapel in the monastery was simple and quiet.

The kids were thrilled to run around and play outside on the grounds of the monastery.

Do you think he is trying to make a fire?

What joy our Genevieve brings us! And don't forget the laughter!

My kiddies are a stair step now. Isaac is catching up fast!