Today marks my last full day in Brussels, Belgium. Usually, I would have spent the evening savoring a delicious meal and dining out. However, for my final night, we opted for a more relaxed approach, enjoying take-out from a local Ethiopian eatery in the comfort of my daughter’s apartment.
We took a short tram ride to downtown Brussels to pick up our take-out meal. The journey provided the perfect opportunity to capture a few final nighttime photographs of the city using my trusty iPhone.
As we navigated the bustling streets, the warm glow of streetlights illuminated the rainy cityscape, casting an enchanting ambiance upon the surrounding architecture. I couldn’t resist capturing these fleeting moments, preserving memories of my time in Brussels.
The original plan was to fly home last week. However, fate had other plans. Just four days before my scheduled departure, I began experiencing flu-like symptoms. A quick test confirmed my worst fears – I had contracted COVID-19.
Despite the absence of travel restrictions, I adhered to the latest CDC guidelines and self-isolated. The last thing I wanted to do was bring the virus home to my wife. This unexpected event extended my stay in Europe, adding an extra week to my time in Brussels.
I would have preferred to spend the extra week in Brussels differently. Still, time in isolation proved to be unexpectedly productive. With the constant threat of stormy, wet weather keeping me indoors, I turned my attention to a long-overdue task – rebuilding my website from the ground up.
As I prepare to depart Brussels, I carry cherished memories of the city’s beauty and culture and the satisfaction of getting a few long, overdue tasks checked off my list. The unexpected detour presented an opportunity for growth and self-discovery, reminding me of the adaptability and resilience within us all.
