We decided to take a drive to Minehead. The weather has been pretty dismal (cool and cloudy) for the past couple of days, so we thought we'd head to the coast in search of sun! Ha! We did get a little there, but not much. It was a really pretty drive with winding roads that varied from just above sea level to over 1000'. It was about a 45-minute drive from our cottage. The beach front, in some areas, looked like a tourist spot with all the souvenir shops, gambling joints and eateries. There was also a small amusement park, which we chose not to pursue. :-) We chose to walk over to the harbor where the boats were grounded. I'm sure, on the weekends, that this place is pretty crowded with locals and tourists. I'm ... read more

Just a quiet day for a walk around Ypres. Though Ieper is the official name, the city's French name, Ypres is most commonly used in English. During the First World War, Ypres was the center of Battles of Ypres between German and Allied forces. During the war it was nicknamed "Wipers", as its name was difficult for English-speaking British Imperial forces to pronounce. Ypres is an ancient town, known to have been raided by the Romans in the first century BC. It is first mentioned by name in 1066 and is probably named after the river Ieperlee on the banks of which it was founded. During the Middle Ages, it was a prosperous Flemish city with a population of 40,000 in 1200 AD and renowned for its linen trade with England (mentioned in the Canterbury Tales). ... read more

Left the house a little passed 8 this morning, headed to Antwerp to visit some friends. After a few congested areas of traffic, we arrived our destination. The navigation on the car is incredible. It delivered us right to our friends' front door. Once inside we had a very nice breakfast and caught up a little (of course Gene had just recently seen them at the marina back home). They live "just" on the outskirts of town, so we drove a short distance and parked the car. Our first stop was Gerda's jewelry shop. She is a goldsmith. Both her daughters work in the shop. She has some very unique and beautiful jewelry. The home where the shop is located is 3 stories. The first story is a small shop, the basement is where the melting ... read more

Took a walk around Ramsden Heath today. Thought I would try out my new travel blog.... read more