Madre and Padre

Not many people can say they went to Europe for the weekend - but Mum and Dad proved that age is just a number and they each toughed out a long journey to Brussels this past weekend.

Not long after their arrival and after a quick power nap we all journeyed out to the Grand Place for what's becoming a ceremonial Beer for all new comers to the city. After a fantastic Lebanese dinner, a good nights rest was well deserved and appreciated. Pops had brought his walking shoes and man was he getting ready to use them!We Gani's believe in Democracy and held a vote to see what lovely Belgian city we would visit and Pops was outvoted 3-1 with Gent emerging as the top choice (he wanted to see Bruges). His veto went unanswered so off we went to Gent - the city of Churches. When I'm 72 I'll consider it a miracle if I just get up in the morning and know which hand is my right and which ones my left, so the fact that Dad hung in there all day while walking up hundreds of spiral steps and cobblestone streets is commendable. Well done old man.

Before we left Gent we went back to the Castle of the Counts as Dad had prepared a surprise for me. Once we entered the main courtyard three guards in full gear pulled me aside and accused me of treason against the queen - the penalty was death by beheading. Good thing he missed...

One of our special guests was celebrating a birthday on Sunday so in her honor we bought some flowers at the outdoor market that Meg and I frequent each week. In addition, Dad's love of cheese was on full alert with the purchase of what can only be called a caldron of brie and a brick of gouda that we enjoyed for lunch with some rather tasty bread. Lets just say that it took a while for my system to "regulate" after the plethora of cheese we consumed.Our trip finished with one last trip the Grand Place this time at night when its at its most beautiful. Meg and I couldn't think of a nicer way to end a lovely visit from two special people. Love you guys - thanks for sharing your time with us here in Brussels, it was a pleasure having you here and can't wait to see you at Christmas.

Love,

Christian & Meghin