Great ending to a great stay in Brussels

---

Today I met my cousin's for the first time and it was the coolest thing ever! In fact, I can say without hesitation that this was the best thing I have done thus far on my vacation. I have seen pictures and have heard stories, but until now I have never met this side of my family. I had a wonderful home cooked local meal of salad, mash potatoes and lamb and for dessert I had a French apple type strudel and Belgium chocolates. I spent several hours talking to Carla, David and their three sons; Aubrey, Evrard and Julian (who just so happens to be a Pirates of the Caribbean fan). We chatted about Betty's Christmas Pudding and grandpa and his tootsie rolls. We talked about Claude and Caludette and it was fun to have the same stories and experiences…my only regret is I wish I would have met them all sooner!

I spent the morning riding a bike that belongs to Aubrey through the Soignes Forest, near their house (which is very kewl)! I also watched Julian's Japanese martial arts practice.

I look forward to visiting them again and to their trip to Washington…I plan to visit Seattle, when they too visit.

What a great day and a good way to conclude my trip to Belgium! Next time I write I will be in Russia! Oh geeze!

---

Photos

The Fam
David, Carla, Julian, Evrard, Aubrey and Me

Poser!!
Me on a bike in the forest.

I love this Forest Service Sign
Listen to the Forester you might learn from him...hahaha.

More of the Fam
Carla and Aubrey

Julian
He is Ethan's age.