Heusden’s history began around the year 1200 with the establishment of an urban settlement beside the River Maas. Its heyday was the construction of the fortifications: from the end of the 16th century Heusden was a garrison town accommodating thousands of soldiers. Then, mostly as now, the town resembled the 17th century drawings made by the Amsterdam cartographer Joan Blaeu: a fortification surrounded by sturdy earthwork ramparts with bastions, moats and ravelins. The Second World War inflicted much damage and human suffering. Subsequently the town was fully restored, honouring Heusden with the highest European award, the ‘Europa Nostra’ prize for restoration. This charming town is certainly worth a visit. Wander through its picturesque streets and alleyways and discover numerous buildings dating back centuries. This historic setting is the home to galleries, speciality shops, friendly restaurants and pavement cafes. There are well-equipped harbours for tourists arriving by water and there are lovely views of the town, the river and the surrounding countryside from the ramparts.
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Spring doesn't arrive when the calendar and the weather reporters say: "It's here". It happens when Mother Nature says: "I'm ready".
Every year we anxiously await the splendors of Spring. The rebirth of gardens and the return of warmth. Well, I must admit to being envious of all of the beautiful pictures of Spring beauty from all of my Flickr friends around the world. But, earlier this week, I went for my morning walk and..."She's ready!" Almost overnight, the fruit trees were in glorious bloom, the Spring flowers had burst from the underground bulbs, and the sun was bright in the blue sky.
It was Spring in Michigan! (SE Michigan, that is) :-)
Tags: blue sky sunny bright white white flowers Spring Spring blossoms tree fruit tree Michigan Southeast Michigan beautiful Michigan Nature Mother Nature Jan Nagalski jannagal cell phone picture seasons
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Verona Sands, Tasmania.
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Biebesheim
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