moven to leuven
Hello, hallo, + bonjour!
Today is my 5th day in Leuven, Belgium!
I am writing this as I stare out the 18”x36” window of a 16th century farmhouse. The view is of primitively shaped brick structures, vines, trees, and an endless grey blue sky. I am feeling so lucky and curious about what this semester will bring. I am listening to a song Jacob played for me on the piano, and drinking somewhat lukewarm water. I also think it is raining outside!
I already feel as though I’ve been here for a while. Leuven is the perfect sized city for me, it is pretty clean, easily navigable, and beautiful. Unfortunately I can feel each individual cobblestone edge through my shoes, and I have been eaten alive by some mysterious bugs because we have thrown our windows wide in an attempt to combat the heat (it’s been working.)
Our accommodations have their disappointments, however they are so lovely. Morgan and I share a good sized room with two single beds, a closet, desk, two chairs, and a healthy yet alarming assortment of resident spiders. Upon first arriving, we were whisked away on a 90 minute walking tour of Leuven, guided by a woman serious about her given task: keeping us awake! The jet lag and hunger was a lethal combination, however we persisted and stumbled into bed for a solid 9 hours.
On our first morning there, Morgan and I ventured out into the city at 8 am. The city was silent, desolate, and incredibly peaceful. We counted 9 passerbyers on our 1 hour walk. A small river winds its way through the city, and appears like a loose thread in a weave; defining and disappearing. We had a breakfast of fresh bread, fruit, coffee, and pain au chocolat. I have likely seen more bicycles than people on this trip. Inhabitants of all ages cycle through the streets, never once caught up on a loose stone, miscommunication, or worry of lack of parking. It is beautiful and yet dangerous for a girl solely walking and gawking.
I have been steadily journaling, and our courses here focus greatly on documentation, and intentional creation of memories for later reflection; so I am excited to explore documenting my adventures and lessons throughout the next 90 days.
Huge thank you to my parents, friends, and family who have been so excited and supportive of this adventure in so many ways!
I hope you return for more! Thanks for reading!
Best,
Grace
