Brussels and D.C.

The Grand Place, Brussels

Wow! It's been a busy few weeks! I am currently home in North Carolina after spending a few days in Brussels, then a few days in Washington, D.C. It's in the upper 60s F. here in Concord, which is a nice change from the freezing temps in Rauma!

The Atomium, built for the 1958 World's Fair

I enjoyed my visit to Brussels, which was a city I had wanted to visit for some time. The weather was chilly, but at least there was no ice! I took a bus tour around the city, visited the famous Atomium, saw the European Union, shopped a bit, sampled lots of chocolate, and tried some Belgian beer. I especially enjoyed my visits to the Magritte Museum and the Museum of Musical Instruments.

Last Wednesday, I flew to Washington, D.C., to visit my daughter. We had a great time, although it was colder and windier there than I would have liked. We toured the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, the Holocaust Museum, the White House, the Supreme Court and the U.S. Capitol. Had some wonderful meals and did a bit of shopping.



The U.S. Capitol

My parents picked me up in Charlotte, and we went to our favorite cafeteria, the K&W. I came home to lots of weeds in our yard, plus the surprise of two trees that had fallen in our back yard. Apparently, we had some vicious wind in this part of the country, too. The pear trees are blooming, which has brought out the seasonal allergies. Still, it's great to drive everywhere, eat decent Mexican food, go to my favorite grocery store, and especially Target. My friend Lynn and I took a nice walk around the neighborhood today, and I hope to visit with more friends soon.

Haven't gotten to see my son yet, as he is currently on a spring break Caribbean cruise.

To see all the pictures of Brussels and D.C., click here:

https://plus.google.com/photos/103069509757300719995/albums/5717295628962642737?authkey=CP-m7Pfe5Y2C9wE

Hope everyone back in Finland is doing well!