Last night Lydia, Luc, Ann, Kurt and I went to dinner at Shazanna on Steendam in Ghent. Delizioso! Dipping my bread in astonishing olive oil. And our conversation ranged far and wide.

Afterwards Lydia wanted to go to the Lievekaai – a broad expanse by the Lieve River bordered by many weeping willow trees. Lights in the cobblestones created brilliant greenness.

Lydia asked me to tell the story of Elise. So I did.

When I realized that I’d be moving from Canada to Belgium, I sensed that I would find the next love of my life in Ghent. I named her Elise.

I walked off the plane at Brussels Airport on January 28 to begin my new life. Soon I began searching for a bridge where someday I’d ask Elise to marry me. St. Michael’s Bridge offers a view of Ghent centrum’s medieval towers. It also offers hundreds of tourists … not what I’m looking for.

Weeks later I thought I had the spot. Right beside my favourite bench on the Lievekaai. But this one kept scratching my brain. It wasn’t right either.

At the other end of the Lievekaai is a bridge less visited. And it was an instant “Yes!” Yesterday Lydia wanted us to walk there.

On the way, I looked over at Kurt. “I want to practice my marriage proposal. Will you play Elise?” I can’t remember what his face did but I’m pretty sure it wasn’t sparkling enthusiasm.

The photo is a daytime view of what Kurt saw after I placed him. As we approached the sacred spot, I saw that there was a man lying on the bridge’s stone wall, and three teenagers were off to the side. I talked to all of them about my plans. The fellow stared. The two girls seemed to giggle. The teenaged guy had a tiny smile.

It was show time. I knelt in front of Kurt and professed my love. “Will you marry me?” Once he said “No” the spell was broken. The other friends started chatting. I told them to shush and began the process again. Happily Kurt said yes this time. I uttered the words “You may kiss the bride.” It was more of a hug than a kiss.

I am now well prepared for Elise.

***

One of the girls asked me “Where is Elise?”

“I haven’t met her yet.”

(Incredulous young faces)

***

If you suspect I’ve been stretching the truth, watch this:

“Elise … where are you?”