Brussels

a big day. too tired to run in the morning, I ventured out to the atomium after breakfast, catching a tram. the monument exceeded expectations: I did not realise just how big it was going to be, towering over swarms of tourists. next time I’ll be organised and find the time to go inside and explore each of the orbs.

my next tram took me to the European Parliament. it’s odd to think that Belgium - so often referred to as a ‘buffer state’ by locals - is home to the capital of the EU. from here I made my way to Mont Des Arts, for another gallery afternoon.

€5 for the gallery of old masters and the Magritte museum, an absolute bargain! both impressed me in different ways. I spied old paintings I’d read about in school as I made my way through the rich history of Belgian/Western European art on show.the Magritte museum was an absolute treat, reminding me of how much I love surrealism. reading his story and seeing so much of his work - which should be appreciated as revolutionary - made me want to make art again, and I’m grateful for this.my new favourite: ‘the natural encounters’, 1945.walked to the Smurf statue because it felt like a silly thing to do.
evening walk - laps around grote markt and surrounding lanes until I was ready to treat myself fo a waffle (which did not disappoint).
leaving early tomorrow. reuniting with Jan, a dear friend I’ve missed for a long time now. making note of these happy days as reminders of how lucky I am. <<