Things to do with a baby in Brussels: The Toy Museum (Le Musée du Jouet)

April 14, 2013April 14, 2013 | lifeofbearanddragon

Hello people! News has it that today should be 20 degrees. 20 degrees! Its cloudy now but just you wait. I can already feel the warmth coming!

It was on a not so warm Sunday about a month ago that the Bear and I flat out ran out of Sunday Funday ideas. it was just then that I remembered a recommendation from long ago. Check out the Toy Museum. We’re in!

I love museums, the Bear is not so much a fan (protests were quieted after a pre-museum beer) and Zoe’s one adventure to the Barberini Museum came when she was way too young to decide. Anyhow, off we went and I must say, it was an interesting time. Le Musée du Jouet is a massive four story home turned into a toy wonderland. Very impressive displays of antique and handmade toys. The best part was that it was quite interactive with lots of games for the little ones. Also THE most impressive set of play kitchens manned by a number of over-zealous 6 year olds on a birthday party.

It is a tad on the expensive side (5.50 EUR) per adult, under 4’s for free but still cool to check out. Did I mention they are open 366 days a year. Impressive!

Most recommended for the over two set. Happy playing!

Where: Verenigingstraat 24, 1000 Brussel, Belgium

When: 366 days a year (WOW) from 10 to 12 am and from 2 to 6 pm.

PS Alot of people have been asking how the photography business is going. Great! I am having a blast and meeting all sorts of lovely little ones and families. If you want to learn more about Bear & Dragon Photography, check out our website here. http://bearanddragonphotography.com/

First look: The lovely Lalvanis

March 27, 2013March 27, 2013 | lifeofbearanddragon

Well the weather has turned and even the most reluctant of trees appear to be ready to burst forth with their much anticipated buds and leaves. Is there anyone in Brussels now who is not salivating at the thought of shedding winter coats and hats in favor of sundresses and sandals? Ok, that might be a bit optimistic but you see where I am headed, right?

Luckily the studio is always warm and even more so when families like the lovely Lalvanis stop by. Three year old Milan and three month old Olivia kept us all on our toes and we played, tickled and snapped some photos. This exotic German-Italian/Indian duo lit up the space and I am happy to be able to share some favorites with you.

First look: Emma and Paul

March 18, 2013March 2, 2014 | lifeofbearanddragon

Nothing could be sweeter than the eager anticipation of a little one waiting for their new brother or sister to arrive. Abounding with hilarious theories for why momma’s belly is so big, what does it mean when your belly button pops out and if the baby can see you from inside there. Paul and Emma joined us in the studio recently to play, brush our teeth (most important photo props for Paul are his favorite red shirt and his tooth brush and paste) and give big hugs and kisses to soon to be born brother, Matthew.

Good times and good luck to the family on the very imminent arrival of baby brother!

First look: Angela and Noel

March 14, 2013March 2, 2014 | lifeofbearanddragon

Why do little boys always get the most amazing lashes? Nowhere is this more true than on the lovely Noel. Joined by momma, pappa and los abuelos, we were so happy to have this lovely family in the studio. Cheers!

First look: Elsje and Clara

March 8, 2013January 3, 2014 | lifeofbearanddragon

I first met Clara when she was barely a little bean and now she is growing into a lovely little lady! In mid-February, we had the pleasure of hosting the Fourie family, including grandparents visiting from Beijing, in the Bear & Dragon studio. What a fun afternoon! Clara was a good sport with multiple outfit changes. Good thing we had grandpa to keep her smiling.

Thank you Elsje, Clara and family

PS. Happy Friday!

TA DA!! Official Bear & Dragon Photography website launch

March 3, 2013March 3, 2013 | lifeofbearanddragon

Well it has been a labour of love (emphasis on the labour side) but we are very excited to announce the launch of the Bear & Dragon Photography website. Thank you to my long suffering Bear and web master, the little (and big people) who grace its pages and my own Bababoo for the ongoing inspiration.

I hope you enjoy it! Happy reading.

http://bearanddragonphotography.com/

First look: Charming Klaus and Claudia

February 25, 2013February 25, 2013 | lifeofbearanddragon

What luck to have so many gorgeous mommas and charming boys in the studio lately! This shoot with Klaus was a ton of fun. We played in the studio and then chased the light around the house. The result was magical! Enjoy and hope you are all staying warm out there.

First look: Marvelous Mia

February 15, 2013February 25, 2013 | lifeofbearanddragon

This week the most marvelous little sprite, along with her mother and grandmother, graced the Bear & Dragon Studio. She danced, she played, I photographed. What fun! I am proud to present a few snaps from our hour that went way too fast. Happy Friday!