The capital of West Flanders. It is distinguished by its canals, cobblestones streets and Medieval buildings. Horse drawn carriages, 17th century houses. I went out to find the Basilica of the Holy Blood…a Romantic Catholic Basilica 12th century. ..Court of Flanders…opened in 1157.
Gothic architecture…very spiritual. The blood of Christ is preserved here…Wow.
I went into the small basement area and they had a altar where you could sit down and pray. I liked it and lit a candle for my mother whose spirit is with me.
Peace.
I left the Basilica and bought my first Belgium beer in a “liquor store” with just beer near by…bless me…and opened it right then and there and took a sip in honor of all. (The lady in the shop took my picture…I had never had a Belgium beer before!) Cheers. I left and walked around the corner to sit down on some marble stairs and drink a little bit more and watch people go by…
I had a hard time drinking it…the taste of hops is bitter to me…I did cap it at one point and decided I needed a cup of coffee, so I found a place. I sat inside and had coffee and a Chocolate Torte. There are so many “sugar” sweets in this village…I feel like I’ve had more than I’ve eaten all year. I even had chocolate on my morning toast…only because I’m in Belgium.
After having coffee and more chocolate I made my way back to the hostel. I stopped on the street to watch people go by and to finish what was left of my beer, that I spilled on myself…I am not a graceful drinker.
After resting a bit I decided I wanted to be part of “World Yoga Day” so i found the local happening and headed out with my map in tow….it turned out to be a Brewery and it was closed.
So I stopped at a small restaurant and ordered a Limoncello, delicious…to celebrate the first day of summer ….it was all so ideal for this gratified day.
I walked back to the hostel after getting a bit turned around but it was fine…I was getting into all the stylistic fonts on all the colorful windows and signs.
I slept well…
I checked my email when I got back and realized that World Yoga Day was not starting till 9a.m. Pacific time…O well…. I tried…
NAMASTE.
Journey Janet au Jardin 