Bruges

We made it to the most anticipated destination of our road trip, Bruges, on Friday, January 3rd in the late afternoon.  Driving into the city, we were overcome with the charm and enchantment that welcomed us.  Our bed and breakfast was located a few short blocks from the center of town, which was perfect distance for us to experience everything with ease.  We were able to ditch the car for two days, and get everywhere by foot.
We had two rooms in an historic canal house, which had all the appeal we were hoping for.  This is the room that greeted us, and where we resided for two nights.

It was very inviting.

My parents room down the hall, also very cozy.  Their bathroom had a tub in it, which meant the kids had their first bath in 4 months (they've only been having showers since we came to the Netherlands).  They LOVED it!

The view from outside our window (taken the next morning).

He knows how to savor a moment.

We were staying in the bright red house up front. 

We wasted no time, and immediately went out to explore the city (and to find dinner).  This is Burg Square, where there are six centuries of architecture to be found amongst the buildings. 

The Christmas beauty was still in full force.

Dinnertime!

We found a great cafe on the second story of a pub, which served wonderful food (including delicious mac and cheese for the kids - score!).

After dinner, we went in search of some chocolate.  If you are unaware, my mom is probably the biggest chocoholic on the face of the planet.  She was in heaven for several days...although, she was also, understandably, quite picky, and didn't settle on a favorite chocolate shop very easily.  Oh well.  This just meant that we all were exposed to multiple chocolate tasting experiences.  Take one for the team, I guess.

Grandpa told the kids they could pick out a lolly pop - there were countless choices, and the two of them circled the display for what seemed like a good 5 minutes, before choosing their perfect sucker. 

Saturday morning, we woke up to beautiful weather.  We set out for our day of exploring and sightseeing.  Bruges is an absolutely charming, lovely city.  The architecture, smells, history, sights, food and overall layout of the town made it easy to lose ourselves in it all.

The Old Recorder's House in Burg Square.

The bell tower, peeking over Burg Square, waiting for the sun to completely rise.

The detailed architecture of city hall. 

Closer to the magnificent bell tower.

Beautiful architecture in the main square.

We made it out before the rest of the city woke up.  The remainder of the day, the Market Square was packed full of people. 

Our first point of interest was to head to the Church of Our Lady.  This church stands as a memorial to the power and wealth of Bruges in its heyday.

Standing out on the perimeters of the church building.

Being in Europe with my parents was like a dream.

You just sort of wanted to explore every nook and cranny of this city.

Mesmerized.

Another vantage point on the grounds surrounding the church.

We entered the church to take a look at a Madonna and Child by Michelangelo (1504).  It is said to be the only Michelangelo statue to leave Italy in his lifetime, bought in Tuscany by a wealthy Bruges businessman, who's buried beneath it.  It was a beautiful thing to see.

It is debatable that what happened next was due to the fact that the kids were being rewarded for doing such a good job going around this historical city, or because Grandpa's just a big softy...either way, the kids scored a second sucker from a candy shop located just outside of the church.  :)

Can't beat that!

Another canal, begging to be explored.

We found the "Lake of Love."  It was pretty serene, and I imagine when everything is in bloom, it is absolutely gorgeous.

Love.

Beauty.

After our self-guided walking tour, we decided it would be fun to take a horse-drawn carriage tour around the city.  The kids thought this was a particularly great idea, too!

Brant and Maddie, with our horse, Naomi.

Get cozy!

Not entirely sure why I'm the only one paying attention to the camera in this one.  But we were all happy to be on board!

There she is!  And still working hard on that sucker..

In the afternoon, we explored an interactive history museum.  This was a view of the Market Square from the museum's upper floor.  They were tearing down the Christmas Market stalls - I can only imagine how bustling it was only a week prior. 

We enjoyed all sorts of yummy treats in Bruges, from chocolate, to waffles, suckers, to more chocolate, and beer to ribs (with a side of chocolate!).  It was a delectable time for all!  Our entire experience in the city was unforgettable and I think we all agreed we would immediately return if the opportunity presented itself.  What a great place!