I was walking a few blocks from the tennis courts this morning and here comes an elderly couple. I had a question:

“Is the golf tournament up ahead?”

“No … it’s a tennis tournament.”

“Oh no!  I came from across the world to see the golf!”

(Stares and incredulous eyes)

“Oh well.  I’ll find the first tee.  And I hear there’s an amazing water hole.”  [The English Channel is less than a mile away]

(Smiles)

***

The photo shows a resting place with a view of the practice courts and the big Center Court. It’s so leafy and adorned with whizzing seagulls. Sanctuary.

And then there’s the “Event Information” booth.  Some boys just want to have fun.

“Yes sir … May I help you?”

“Thank you. I’d like to know what the meaning of life is. Just one word please.”

(Three volunteers silenced … for the moment)

(After a suitable pause)

“Family”

“Happiness”

“Orange. And actually, if you could find me one, that would be excellent.”

I smiled at them all and waved goodbye. My path was clear. I headed over to a row of food kiosks. On the counter of one I saw bottles and cans of various drinks, including an orange one!

Quick like a bunny, I paid for the precious liquid and hurried back to the info volunteers. My orange friend was busy with another guest. I placed the bottle on the counter and walked away, grinning all the while.

***

I’m trying to convince the folks sitting near me in Center Court that seagulls are one of the wonders of the world. To a person, they’re unimpressed. I can live with that.

***

I wore my “I love Gent” t-shirt today. That’s the Flemish spelling. One more time, people seemed really attracted to my chest. No one spoke up but I could tell many folks thought I was having a gay old time.

I just walked into The Dolphin for dinner. A friend had told me it’s a genuine British pub, and it feels that way.

A somewhat local couple at the next table are really friendly. They’re accompanied by her mom and two dogs. The lovely woman takes my picture. I tell them all that I live in Ghent. Lots of laughs.

And that’s the end of the rodeo for another day

Cheers