We are getting back into the swing of things with another school year. Wow, the summer has flown by! It was a great and inspirational summer, though, and Doug and I had a chance to visit Flanders for ten days. As always we were inspired by the community design, the architecture, and the beautiful countryside. We also learned that Belgians are delightful people with a wonderful sense of humor. They embrace some of the best of French, German, and Dutch cultures, creating a relaxed but efficient culture with delectable food and tempting treats (beer and chocolate anyone?)
Our apartment on Jakobstraat
Our apartment in the heart of Brugge was a perfect haven from which to tour the sights or explore the backroads by bicycle. We rode along the canal to Damme, a charming town 4 miles from Brugge, and to the train station where we had easy rail access to the rest of Belgium. Along the route we encountered Belgian draught horses and sheep, toured a working windmill, and marveled at the interesting architecture and landscapes.
The route to Damme
Wooden gears in a working windmill.
The bell feature on this garage was enchanting.
Architecture in the Belgian countryside.
Belgian country home
In Damme, we found a pottery shop which inspired.
The barefoot potter at Terra Flama in Damme, Belgium. He worked with such enthusiasm that we were inspired to create our own pieces.
This post is more about Damme than Bruges, so I will follow up with more Belgium pictures. As always, travel renews us and gets us into the creative spirit- more on that to come also!