If on an autumn day a traveller ...

I've just been out, braving the elements in search of props now that autumn might be doing its thing and leading us on down the path into winter ...

It turned out that once outside not too much bravery was required - light drizzle, low grey sky and later, a 'playful' breeze couldn't dampen my smiles as I walked home.

I found two polar fleece blankets for future photography excursions to Tervuren and Rivierenhof Parks at very nice prices. Then, inspired by the absolutely stunning cuteness of a puppy that passed by me, I stopped its owner and asked if I might photograph said puppy for my photography website.

It seemed that perhaps she was as delighted as I was ...

Smiling, I went into the Apoteek for some aspirin and there I discovered the pharmacist was the nephew of a past Belgian ambassador to New Zealand ... he regretted only being 14 when his uncle invited him over.

The discussion had come about after I tried to prepare him for my vowel sounds ... asking for Sedergine has caused me problems in both Turkey and Belgium. Those who have heard me can imagine, I'm sure.

I've discovered that i's and e's become particularly distressing vowel sounds outside of New Zealand and Australia.

He was superb and knew what I was talking of first time ... no writing it down for him.

(Note: apologies to Italo Calvino)