Brussels in the Spring

Spring is officially taking over Belgium. The weather is beautiful, and these Europeans take their flowers very seriously. We experienced our first tulip immersion at the Kukenhoff Gardens near Amsterdam. Each year over a million bulb are planted at Kukenhoff, which means "kitchen garden" and the variety and displays are amazing. If I had a team of over 100 gardeners, my yard could look like this too!

In Brussels, one of the spring tradtions is visiting the Royal Greenhouses at the Palace in Laeken. The Royal Palace sits right on a main road, so it is suprising to find what lies hidden behind the gates and trees. In 1873, architect Alphonse Balat designed for King Leopold II a complex of greenhouses which complement the castle of Laeken, built in the classical style. By royal decree, the gardens are open to the public each year for a few week during their colorful peak.

I can't help wondering what it would be like growing up in a place like this. It gives new meaning to the phrase "Mom, I'm going outside to play..."

Another of the many great spring treats is the Bluebell forest in Halle. Southern Brussels is bordered by a huge beech forest. There are miles of trails throughout, and the kids love to build forts and swordfight under the canopy. In late April, the bluebells overtake the forest floor, and you feel like you are walking through a purple mist. It is the kind of place where you would not be at all suprised to meet fairies or elves. We brought our own sprites along on this trip.

Julia with the four Scherbel girls from our Ward.