We have spent almost a month and a half here in Belgium and so far couldn’t be happier with the decision. We really love the country and are having fun finding our way through a new culture (albeit frustrating at times). Already we are feeling pretty settled although there are still some things we need to get arranged. In general we know where we need to go for the essentials (much thanks to Brett and Terrie who have helped out here a ton). Our house is still a bit of a mess, but who ever completely unpacks after a move, seriously? A few more boxes and tidying and I’ll be much more relaxed. I thought I would do a bit of rambling about some of our experiences so far. (beware)
I haven’t looked back for a second at selling my car. From the day it was towed away I never had any weird feelings and was quite excited to trade it for a new bike. It was something I always had wanted, but could never justify for myself. In exchange for the car payment, insurance, gas, etc. it didn’t seem too bad anymore. I knew I didn’t want to buy a car in Belgium right away and didn’t think we would really need one until Scott starts working here. We may end up changing our minds, but for the time being we are pretty happy on two wheels. Work is only 3.5 km away and only takes 10 minutes or so to get there. We can make it to Turnhout, the next biggest town, in about 30. Scott does hitch a ride to the big grocery store with Terrie when she goes, but really if we couldn’t get there by car the little stores nearby have everything you need.
Already I’m completely addicted to quite a few of the Belgian delicacies. The bread is absolutely delicious. It is always fresh and only lasts a few days so you really do have to go to the store often in you want it every day. If the bakeries or groceries are closed before you get your bread though the leftover loaves are sliced and put into a bread vending machine - the brood automat. It is a nice hearty bread with a crunchy crust. Oh, and when you buy it at the grocery the loaves are all in a big bin and you slice it yourself in the bread slicer. That took a few tries to get the hang of, but is quite fun. Produce is fresh and delicious and much to my delight Scott discovered we have a veggie man! Growing up we used to have a truck that would come by once a week and we would go out with my mom and pick out our fruits and veggies and we would call him the veggie man. Beer and chocolate, need I elaborate? Coffee here I think is much better. After you get used to the idea of a smaller serving (no shortage of caffeine though) it is delicious. In a restaurant it always comes with some chocolate and a cookie or biscuit. Really, it doesn’t take much to please me.
We have all three been pretty happy with the food although determining what to order in a restaurant isn’t always easy. Usually there is an English menu or the waiter/waitress speaks English and can help, but sometimes it is just guessing. I have been fortunate enough to try great food at work. The “company restaurant” is delicious and cheap and you can see what it is you are eating as well as the English and Dutch version of the dish. For the most part at work I have liked almost everything I’ve eaten (and I can be picky). In general the food here is more fresh, less preservatives, less sugar, and less fat. Scott and I are already down a loop on our belts and we have added a daily beer and chocolate to our diets!
There is a bit of a taste for you of some of my random thoughts for today. More to come later I’m sure.
