Sunday, August 31, 2008

Here at Last





I can't believe that I am here at last! I took a long flight from Seattle to London and was picked up by Suzie. It felt incredible to be welcomed warmly with a hug and immediately feel at home due to the offer of a Starbucks coffee. The two of us then took the tube to the northern London town of Islington where the family lives. The charming streets wind around and are lined with houses that have been there for centuries.

I then met Gennie; an energetic, funny, and absolutely lovely 17 year old who I will be living with for the next 6 months. After a good meal at a little Italian restaurant down the street I finally got some much needed sleep.

The next morning Suzie, Gennie, and I went out to a little cafe for fresh croissants and juice as we went over all of the details for our time in Brussels. Then Gennie and I were off to Brussels by train! The little that I have seen of this beautiful city has already exceeded my expectations. Our apartment is picturesque. My lovely room has a three pane window that opens to a stunning view that overlooks the city. We live just across from a luscious green park with an old Abbey on the grounds. The cobblestone streets give Brussels a feeling of richness and history that is comforting.

Percy, Gennie's puppy, is actually quite endearing (I can't believe that I am saying this). She snuggles up into my lap whenever she has a chance and follows us wherever we go in the apartment. All the shops are closed each Sunday and Gennie was shocked when I told her that most stores are open on Sundays in the States.

I think that these next months are going to be full of new experiences and I cannot wait for it all to begin!

2 comments:

ROD said...

So glad you had a good trip.
It has been over 30 years since I was in Brussels but I remember it as very historic and stately. What fun to have months instead of days to explore a city so rich in history culture. Just don't forget to blog so we can ALL go with you :) Love, Lin

ROD said...
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