After a rough start in Belgium, we found a city which totally redeemed the county. Ghent is now in my books as one of my favourite places. Ryan and I had a great time in Bruges, but in my opinion, Ghent beats it. There are the same swans, canals, and old medieval buildings like in Bruges, but it's a lot less touristy and more homey. There are some really cool stories that go along with Ghent...Ryan will have to tell you over some drinks as he will be heading home in January. Ask about the man who was breastfed by his daughter or The Devil Child.

Today was our last day in Belgium and what a beautiful day it was. The sun was out in full blast...I should have left my rainbow sweater at home because it was too warm. Ryan and I first went to S.M.A.K. (http://www.smak.be/) which is a modern art gallery. I have always wanted to go to a place like this just to see where people can draw the line between what is art, and what is an old pop can sitting on a pedestal. When we arrived, we struck up a conversation with the two men at the reception. The one was very interested in Canada and so we chatted it up with him for a while. He then invited us to see an exhibition which is not yet open to the public. He took us behind the red tape making us the first people from the public to view this particular exhibition. The art itself was not that good...just some people sleeping in beds...but it was nice getting the VIP treatment. We then met up with our CS host, Kjaartje, who brought us to her favourite soup spot. The tiny place reminded me of With the Grain back at home. We then walked back along the water to the apartment where we are packing up all of our belongings.

Finally! It is time to go to a warmer climate!

See you all in Italy!!!